About Troy’s Tropics

Plants for the People. Landscapes for Life.

Troy Williams inside a greenhouse, holding a pot of blooming impatiens among rows of colorful flowers.

How It All Began

One Landscaper’s Vision for Better Plants

Troy’s Tropics didn’t start as a nursery—it started with a landscaper who wanted better plants.

Sarasota Roots, Florida Tough

From Landscapes to Locally Grown Excellence

In the years leading up to 1985, founder Troy Williams was designing and installing landscapes throughout Sarasota, learning firsthand which plants could truly thrive in Florida’s heat, salt air, and storms. That experience revealed a simple truth: great landscapes begin with strong, healthy, locally grown plants.

So in 1985, Troy’s Tropics Nursery was born—a small, family-run operation built on quality, honesty, and a deep love for plants. With just a few greenhouses and a single truck, the nursery quickly became a community favorite, known for Florida-friendly selections and the kind of personal guidance only a local grower can provide.

Troy’s Tropics branded landscape truck parked on a dirt lot, ready for plant deliveries or landscape installations.
Older Troy’s Tropics nursery entrance sign surrounded by vibrant pink bougainvillea and lush potted plants under a sunny Florida sky.
Troy securing clear plastic to a greenhouse frame on a sunny day, preparing for plant protection.
TROY WITH HIS CHICKEN WHO THOUGHT SHE WAS A CAT

Legacy and Loyalty

Why We’re Still Here—40 Years Later

For decades, Troy’s Tropics focused on growing and retailing plants, serving generations of Sarasota homeowners and gardeners who valued expertise, care, and authenticity. While many local nurseries disappeared with the rise of big-box stores, Troy’s Tropics endured—remaining one of the few legacy nurseries still standing from the 1980s.

Growing to Meet Your Needs

From Design to Maintenance and More

In 2016, the company came full circle with the revival of its Landscape Division, blending decades of horticultural experience with creative outdoor design. From residential gardens to large community properties, our landscapes are known for thoughtful layouts, craftsmanship, and long-term success.

As our clients’ needs grew, so did our services. Property Maintenance Programs were introduced in 2020, followed by Wholesale, Irrigation, and Lighting Services in 2024—allowing us to support homeowners, professionals, and properties with complete outdoor solutions.

2023 NURSERY
NEW NUSERY SIGN JAN 2021
Troy’s Tropics team members working among cleared nursery rows, with trucks and greenhouse structures visible under a bright blue sky.
Troy’s Tropics retail nursery entrance sign surrounded by potted plants and vibrant bougainvillea, set against a dramatic Florida sunset.

A New Chapter on Proctor Road

Where It All Comes Together

A major milestone came in 2023, when Troy’s Tropics acquired the historic former Albritton’s Nursery at 4151 Proctor Road, transforming it into our headquarters and customer-facing hub. Today, this location brings retail shopping, landscape design, and client consultation together in one place.

Now nearly 40 years strong, Troy’s Tropics is a vertically integrated horticulture company, encompassing retail, landscape design and installation, wholesale plant supply, irrigation, lighting, and property maintenance.

Our Mission

Plants for the People. Landscapes for Life.

Still family-run. Still local. Still growing.

Our mission remains simple: to provide quality plants to the people—and to help our community create landscapes that are beautiful, resilient, and built to last.

Troy's daughter at the nursery

(Troy’s daughter at the nursery)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you help customers select plants based on sunlight conditions?

Yes. Our team helps you choose plants suited for full sun, partial shade, or full shade, ensuring healthier growth and long-term success.

Are your plants locally grown or sourced?

Many of our plants are locally grown or sourced from trusted Florida growers, which means better adaptability to Sarasota’s climate and soil conditions.

Can I visit the nursery to browse plants in person?

Absolutely. Customers are always welcome to visit the nursery and browse plants in person before making a purchase.

Do you offer advice on plant care and maintenance?

Yes. We provide basic care and maintenance guidance to help your plants thrive after purchase or installation.

Are your landscaping solutions suitable for commercial properties?

Yes. Troy’s Tropics supports commercial landscaping projects, including offices, retail centers, HOAs, and community properties.

How far in advance should I plan a landscaping project?

Project timelines vary based on size and scope. Smaller projects may take a few weeks, while larger, more detailed landscapes can take a couple of months. Our designers visit your property to create a custom plan built around your needs, followed by our landscaping crews bringing the design to life. To ensure the best experience, homeowners are encouraged to plan ahead.

Can you help choose the right plants for my property?

Yes. Our team helps select plants based on sun exposure, soil type, maintenance preferences, and long-term goals.

Do you offer bulk pricing or wholesale plant options?

Yes. Troy’s Tropics operates a wholesale plant nursery in Sarasota, offering bulk pricing for qualifying landscapers, builders, and property managers.

Are fruit trees beginner-friendly for homeowners?

Many of the fruit trees we offer are low-maintenance and beginner-friendly, and our staff is happy to recommend options best suited for Sarasota homes.

Do you assist with replacing damaged or diseased plants?

Yes. We help customers replace unhealthy or damaged plants and recommend stronger alternatives suited for local growing conditions.