
Nestled in the heart of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, Laurel Nursery has blossomed into one of the region’s most cherished garden centers. Established in 1974 by John and Joyce Heese, the nursery began on a modest one-acre plot. Today, it spans over 70 acres, offering a vast array of plants, gardening supplies, and expert advice to both amateur gardeners and seasoned horticulturists.
From its humble beginnings, Laurel Nursery has undergone significant expansions to meet the growing demands of its community. In 2004, the retail space was increased from 3 to 5 acres, and eight additional greenhouses were constructed to cultivate annuals and store plant materials during the winter months. Further acquisitions in 2020 and 2021 allowed the nursery to expand its offerings to include pottery, fertilizers, soils, trellises, and birdbaths.

The Heese family’s commitment to the nursery’s success is evident in their hands-on involvement. Ken Heese, who joined the nursery in 1988 after earning a degree in nursery management, now serves as the owner. In 2016, his son, Jacob Heese, became the third generation to join the business, ensuring that the family’s passion for gardening continues to thrive.
Laurel Nursery prides itself on its extensive selection of plants and gardening supplies. Customers can find everything from container and balled-and-burlap trees to small fruits and fruit trees. The nursery also boasts the area’s largest selection of bedding plants, annual hanging baskets, and perennials.
In addition to plants, the nursery offers a wide range of gardening tools, fertilizers, soils, and mulches. For those looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces, Laurel Nursery provides outdoor furniture, Yeti drinkware, and Weber grills.
With over 200 years of combined experience among its full-time staff, Laurel Nursery offers expert advice to help customers achieve their gardening goals. The nursery’s commitment to community engagement is also evident in its support for local veterans, offering discounts to those who qualify.
Laurel Nursery stands as a shining example of a family-owned business that has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving garden center serving the Latrobe community. With over 70 acres of plants, gardening supplies, and outdoor living products, it caters to both beginners and seasoned gardeners, offering expert advice and personalized service.

As Laurel Nursery celebrates over five decades of service to the Latrobe community, the Heese family remains dedicated to providing quality products and expert advice to gardeners of all levels. With continued expansion and a commitment to excellence, Laurel Nursery is poised to remain a cornerstone of the local gardening community for years to come.
The Heese family’s dedication, spanning three generations, ensures a legacy of quality, innovation, and community engagement. For anyone looking to enhance their garden or explore the joys of horticulture, Laurel Nursery remains a trusted and inspiring destination.
Laurel Nursery is more than just a garden center; it is a community landmark where gardening enthusiasts of all levels can find inspiration, guidance, and high-quality products. From its humble beginnings in 1974 to becoming a sprawling 70-acre nursery, the Heese family’s dedication and passion for horticulture shine through every corner of the business.
With expert advice, a wide range of plants and gardening supplies, and a focus on community engagement, Laurel Nursery continues to nurture not only gardens but also relationships with its customers. For anyone looking to transform their outdoor space or simply explore the joys of gardening, Laurel Nursery remains a trusted destination, blending tradition, expertise, and innovation seamlessly.
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