Even if you're not a plant person, you have reasons to stop by Kent East Hill Nursery. Whimsical gifts. Locally made caramels. Landscaping know-how. And the immediate magical powers of stepping into a space full of bright blooms and lush greens. “We have people who come here to unwind after a stressful day,” said Ryan Malmassari, co-manager of the longtime family-owned business. “They love the calming, soothing environment.” Read on to plan your escape to Kent East Hill Nursery for greens, gifts and good vibes.
Wandering through the 4-acre property is a relaxing, spa-like experience. Evergreen shrubs and fruit trees stand in tidy rows. Fragrant flowers spill out of hanging baskets. Houseplants in every crayon shade of green call your name.
The Kent East Hill Nursery staff is standing by to play matchmaker, ensuring you go home with the plants and materials that fulfill your vision.
Ryan said superior customer service has always been his family’s priority for the nursery. Staff members are gardeners who make recommendations from experience — and from the heart.
There’s even a certified horticulturist in the house. Customers can ask questions, seek advice and come away with useful tips — all at no charge. Puzzled about a pest in your garden? Send in a photo and the horticulturist will reply with recommended solutions.
Seasonal Shift Highlights the Holidays
When the weather turns colder, business heats up in the nursery’s houseplant department and gift shop. In addition to garden-themed products, the gift shop grows each year with teas, tote bags, T-shirts and items from local artists.
Holiday wreath-making classes are a longtime tradition at the nursery. Sessions fill quickly, so make a note on your calendar to watch for registration to open shortly after October 1 next year.
The crew is preparing for the upcoming holidays with fresh-cut and living trees, free Santa photos and ornaments in the gift shop. Ryan said the team is creating fun in-store activities, as they do throughout the year. For example, this past October, customers were challenged to “Find Gourdy,” a decorated pumpkin hiding on the property.
Visiting the nursery can be like a treasure hunt because of the abundant and varied selection. Each month a massive shipment of plants arrives direct from growers in Florida and California. There’s also a steady infusion of plants from local growers, so no two visits to the nursery are alike.
Some customers keep a close eye on inventory in the “Collector’s Corner.” The rare and unusual houseplants in this section are curated for those with specific plant interests.
Growth Continues On-site and Online
Kent East Hill Nursery opened in 1986. Longtime manager Darren Malmassari, Ryan’s dad, bought the business from the founder in 2017. Ryan and his sister now co-manage the nursery with Darren’s oversight. The Malmassaris have made incremental improvements over the years, and in 2024 they expanded by buying Covington Creek Nursery in Auburn.
With his marketing background, Ryan has also grown the nursery’s online presence. The social media posts are full of specific plant recommendations, problem-solving tips and personality. And, of course, dozens of colorful, inspiring photos.
The “Garden Wisdom” series of Facebook reels supports the nursery’s customer service focus with how-to demonstrations, friendly advice and seasonal tips.
When you can’t make it to the nursery in person, visit the robust online shop. Scroll through photos of over 200 plants from aeonium to zamioculcas, all available for shipping.
The online shop also offers candles, plush animals and a cute mushroom-shaped toothbrush holder for year-round giving. Gift cards are available online and in-store.
Make Kent East Hill Nursery part of your next Kent visit for plants, gifts and a generous helping of friendly growing expertise.
Kent East Hill Nursery
11644 S.E. 240th Street
Kent, WA 98031
Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Covington Creek Nursery
32135 Thomas Road S.E.
Auburn, WA 98092
Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
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