Turning the Page

Yes, it’s true. The company we formed in 1976, the nursery that became synonymous
with plant collecting around the world, is entering a new chapter. By the end of this year,
Linda and I will say goodbye to the property that has been Tropiflora’s home for more
than half a century.
Tropiflora has been our heart and soul, our identity, our livelihood, and the workplace
and second home of an extraordinary crew. It has become a destination and a
community cherished by people from every corner of the globe. But time has a way of
turning pages. The realities of aging, devastating storms, and an ever-changing world
have led us to the difficult decision to step away after fifty-one remarkable years.
While our time at the nursery is coming to an end, we are hopeful that Tropiflora’s story
may not be. We are currently in discussions with parties who share our passion for the
nursery, its plants, and its traditions. Although nothing has been finalized, our sincere
hope is that Tropiflora may one day continue under new ownership at a new location in
Manatee County. Should that come to pass, we know it would be welcomed by
countless friends and customers who have been part of this journey.
It would be impossible to thank everyone who made this adventure possible: the
customers who supported us year after year, the friends who traveled great distances to
visit, the local volunteers who helped make our festivals so memorable, and the
countless people who purchased our plants and believed in what we were trying to
accomplish.
Our employees, of course, are Tropiflora. Without them, it never would have become
the place you came to know and love. Some have dedicated the better part of their lives
to this nursery, giving not only their labor and expertise but also their passion,
dedication, and heart to the quality of our plants and the service our customers have
always deserved.
Building and operating Tropiflora for more than fifty years has been an extraordinary
blessing and an unforgettable adventure. It carried us across the globe in search of
remarkable plants and remarkable people, while bringing the world to our own doorstep.
The list of botanists, naturalists, collectors, explorers, and enthusiasts who have walked
our nursery aisles would fill volumes.
So, as Linda and I prepare to say goodbye to our customers, our employees, our
beloved lifestyle, and the property that has been our home for so many years, our
feelings are bittersweet beyond words. We take quiet pride in knowing that we played a
small part in advancing the world of plants we loved so dearly, and we leave with
profound gratitude to all of you. Without your friendship, encouragement, and support
over these past fifty-one years, none of it would have been possible. 

As Tropiflora’s story unfolds, we will keep you informed. If Tropiflora continues beyond
us, we will be cheering from the sidelines. Regardless of what comes next, we could not
have asked for a more rewarding journey. Thank you for being a part of it.

With our deepest gratitude,

Dennis and Linda Cathcart and the entire Tropiflora Team