Better by Nature
At Del’s Garden Center, the phrase “Better by Nature” goes far beyond a marketing slogan—it defines how we approach everything, from the way we grow our plants to the way we serve our community. Since our founding in 1967, we’ve believed that nature itself holds the key to better living, healthier environments, and more beautiful spaces.
This commitment to natural principles isn’t just rooted in our products; it’s in our DNA. Our founder, Del Brockshus, and his family built this business on the belief that plants, flowers, and landscapes thrive best when they are grown and nurtured as nature intended. Whether you’re creating a backyard oasis, a productive vegetable garden, or a vibrant floral display, everything we do is designed to help you tap into the inherent power of nature.
But what does “Better by Nature” really mean? It reflects our commitment to practices that work with the natural world, rather than against it. This page will explore how that philosophy has shaped Del’s Garden Center and why we believe that everything—our lives, our homes, our environment—is truly better when we embrace nature.
Del’s Garden Center: Rooted in Nature’s Wisdom
The story of Del’s Garden Center began in 1967 when Del Brockshus, a horticulturalist with a passion for plants, and his wife, Charin, saw an opportunity to bring the beauty and benefits of gardening to Spencer, Iowa. Del understood that plants, when cultivated in alignment with their natural processes, are healthier, more resilient, and more beneficial to the people who care for them.
Del’s horticultural background and dedication to quality were the foundation for what Del’s Garden Center would become—a place where nature’s power is respected, celebrated, and shared with the community. That respect for nature has driven every decision we’ve made since our founding, from the products we offer to the way we care for our plants and customers.
Why Things Are Better by Nature
At Del’s Garden Center, we believe that nature knows best. Our “Better by Nature” philosophy is about embracing the earth’s natural cycles, processes, and wisdom. Here’s why we think things are better when we work with nature:
1. Healthier Plants, Healthier People
Plants grown in harmony with their natural environment are healthier, stronger, and more resilient. When we nurture plants the way nature intended—by providing the right soil, water, light, and nutrients—we allow them to flourish. This not only results in more beautiful and productive gardens but also in plants that are more resistant to pests and diseases.
For our customers, this means less reliance on chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Instead, we focus on organic and sustainable gardening practices that align with nature. When plants thrive naturally, they contribute to a healthier environment, cleaner air, and more nourishing food sources for families. Simply put, working with nature leads to better outcomes for everyone—plants and people alike.
2. Sustainability: Nature’s Blueprint for the Future
Nature has been sustaining life on this planet for billions of years. It’s a model of efficiency and balance, and when we follow nature’s lead, we can create more sustainable landscapes and environments. At Del’s, we are committed to using nature’s blueprint to guide our choices—whether it’s promoting native plants that thrive in our local climate or encouraging organic gardening practices that reduce the need for harmful chemicals.
Sustainability isn’t just a trend for us; it’s a core value. Nature has perfected the art of regeneration, and by adopting sustainable practices, we help protect our natural resources for future generations. When you shop at Del’s, you’ll find eco-friendly products, from organic fertilizers to sustainably sourced plants, that align with our commitment to a healthier, more sustainable world.
By nurturing landscapes that require less water, fewer chemicals, and minimal intervention, we help our customers create gardens that not only look beautiful but also contribute to the long-term health of our environment. That’s what makes things truly Better by Nature.
3. Nature Heals: The Power of Plants in Everyday Life
One of the most profound reasons we believe in “Better by Nature” is the undeniable impact that plants and nature have on human well-being. Scientific studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost cognitive function. The simple act of caring for plants, whether in a garden, a landscape, or inside the home, can bring peace and calm to our often hectic lives.
At Del’s Garden Center, we see this healing power of nature every day. For some of our customers, working in the garden is a way to escape the pressures of daily life. For others, bringing green, living things into their homes helps create a space of tranquility. The plants we provide—from flowering perennials to houseplants—aren’t just decorations; they’re part of a larger natural system that benefits mental, physical, and emotional health.
By creating spaces that are “Better by Nature,” you’re not just improving your environment; you’re improving your quality of life.
4. Connecting People to Nature: A Community of Green Enthusiasts
One of the most rewarding aspects of working at Del’s is seeing the community come together through a shared love of plants and nature. Whether it’s a customer finding the perfect vegetable plants to feed their family, a homeowner designing their dream landscape, or a local organization looking for sustainable ways to beautify their surroundings, nature connects us in ways that nothing else can.
We believe that when people connect with nature, they connect with each other. Over the years, Del’s has built a community of green enthusiasts who understand that nature doesn’t just make things grow—it brings people together. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, our staff is here to guide you, offering expert advice and encouragement as you create your own little slice of nature.
Our community of customers isn’t just looking for products; they’re looking for ways to improve their lives through nature, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.
Nature’s Legacy at Del’s Garden Center
For over 50 years, Del’s Garden Center has embraced the idea that everything is “Better by Nature.” What started as a small garden center has grown into a thriving business that continues to serve Spencer and Northwest Iowa. And at the heart of that growth is our unwavering belief in the power of nature.
Del Brockshus founded this garden center with a vision: to create a place where people could come together, connect with nature, and grow healthier, more beautiful lives. That vision still guides us today, as the second generation of the Brockshus family carries on the tradition of nurturing plants, landscapes, and people.
Our commitment to nature has inspired generations of horticulturalists, landscape professionals, and gardeners. Many of our former employees have gone on to become leaders in the industry, bringing the lessons they learned at Del’s to communities across the country. And while our business has grown, our core values remain the same: respect for nature, commitment to sustainability, and a deep appreciation for the role that plants play in our lives.
The Future of Del’s: Growing Stronger with Nature
As we look ahead, we remain committed to our founding philosophy that things are always “Better by Nature.” We’ll continue to innovate, offering new products and services that help our customers embrace natural gardening practices. From eco-friendly landscaping solutions to organic gardening products, we’ll keep leading the way in sustainability and natural living.
But no matter how much we grow, our roots will always be in nature. Every plant we sell, every landscape we design, and every customer we serve is a testament to the power of nature to make life better. Whether it’s a bouquet for a wedding, a vegetable garden that nourishes a family, or a peaceful backyard retreat, everything we do is guided by the belief that nature provides the best solutions.
We invite you to join us on this journey. Let Del’s Garden Center help you create a space that’s not only beautiful but truly Better by Nature.
Let's take a walk.
Meticulously crafted landscapes.
