Inside the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind’s Hidden Nursery

St. Augustine is full of surprises, but one of its best-kept secrets might just be the thriving plant nursery at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB). For more than 25 years, this prestigious institution has quietly enriched St. Augustine’s gardening community through its flourishing landscape nursery; fully grown, maintained, and managed by its talented students. What makes this nursery truly special isn’t just the variety, though you’ll find everything from stunning alocasias and hibiscus to Egyptian starflowers and butterfly-attracting nectar plants; it’s the hands-on learning behind every bloom. Students in the Career and Technical Education program don’t just grow plants; they cultivate skills, confidence, and artistry. Under the guidance of Brian Podlinsky, students take their classroom outside, learning plant science, landscape design, and even the art of container gardening. And the impact goes beyond the classroom. One FSDB graduate even went on to become a certified lawn technician and golf course manager. The best part? You don’t have to be a student to enjoy the fruits of their labor. FSDB’s plant shop is open to the public Monday through Friday starting at 8:30 am (closed on weekends). Locals can browse and purchase plants while directly supporting student education and skills training. Just check in at the guardhouse on Genoply Street to get started. So next time you’re planning your garden, skip the big box store and pay a visit to FSDB – where every plant tells a story.

207 San Marco Ave
(904) 290-4306