Harlequins Gardens

Harlequins Gardens is a family nursery in north Boulder that specializes in plants suited to Colorado's dry, exposed conditions. The nursery grows many of the plants it sells, including native plants, xeriscape selections, hardy own-root roses, perennials, organic vegetable and herb starts, fruit trees, berry bushes, groundcovers and seeds. Owners Mikl and Eve Brawner have been testing plants at their North Boulder site since 1985.

Plants are grown organically and sold free of bee-killing neonicotinoid pesticides, and staff can help match plants to a specific project. The shop also carries compost, mulch, soil-building products, non-toxic pest-management supplies and books by local authors. Plants are sold only at the Boulder location, so buyers need to visit in person, and the display gardens are open for visitors to walk through. Gift certificates are available.