Water-Wise & Native Plants

Rooted in Experience

San Jose’s Expert in Water-Wise & Native Plants

Helping the South Bay Grow Sustainably Since 1974

At Central Wholesale Nursery, we believe a stunning landscape shouldn’t come at the cost of your water bill. As a locally owned family business, we specialize in providing the San Jose and Greater Bay Area with a premier selection of Water-Wise and climate-appropriate plants that flourish in our Mediterranean climate.

Whether you are a professional landscape contractor or a home gardener, our 50 years of local expertise ensures you get the right plants for a sustainable, low-maintenance yard.

Get Directions to our McKinley Ave Nursery

Plant Education

Why Choose Water-Wise Plants in San Jose?

Landscape irrigation is one of the most water-intensive parts of any California home or business. By choosing water-efficient plants from a local nursery, you can:

Drastically Reduce Utility Costs

Maintain a lush garden without a “bursting” water budget.

 

Support California Habitats

Create a sanctuary for native birds, bees, and butterflies.

Improve Local Water Quality

Native and drought-tolerant landscapes require less fertilizer, keeping our South Bay watersheds cleaner.

Nursery Pro-Tip: While these species are designed for low water use, they need care during the “establishment phase.” Avoid overwatering once they are settled; many California natives prefer “dry feet” to prevent root rot.

Outdoor display at Central Wholesale Nursery in San Jose featuring rows of potted water-wise shrubs, ornamental grasses, and a decorative fountain.

FAQ:

Water-Wise Questions:

Do "water-wise" plants need any water at all?

Yes, especially initially. Even the most drought-resistant plants need regular watering during their first one to two growing seasons to establish a deep, healthy root system. Once established, they thrive with minimal supplemental water.

Not at all! While we carry a massive variety of succulents in San Jose, “water-wise” also includes:

  • Flowering Shrubs: Lavender, Sage, and Ceanothus.
  • Shade Trees: Majestic oaks and climate-hardy varieties.
  • Ornamental Grasses: Providing movement and texture.

Our trained staff are experts in South Bay microclimates. Because we’ve been in San Jose since 1974, we understand local soil types. Tell us your sun exposure and soil conditions, and we’ll find the best species for your project.

Yes! We serve both professional landscapers and homeowners. We provide wholesale-grade plant stock to everyone looking for high-quality, healthy greenery.

Yes! Valley Water often provides a Landscape Rebate Program for San Jose residents who replace high-water-use lawns with drought-tolerant plants. We recommend checking the Valley Water Rebate Page for current requirements before starting.

In San Jose, the best time to plant is typically fall or early winter. This allows plants to use natural rainfall to establish roots before the summer heat arrives.

Planning in the Bay Area

San Jose Landscaping Resources

San Jose Water Company GardenSoft

Click here for a database of beautiful, low-maintenance garden ideas

Official logo for San Jose Water (SJW) used to identify local water-wise rebate programs in San Jose.

Valley Water Nursery List

Central Wholesale Nursery is proud to be a featured provider of climate-appropriate stock in the Valley Water List of Local Nurseries (PDF)

EPA WaterSense logo indicating water-efficient products and practices.

EPA WaterSense

 Find certified products and additional water-saving tools to maximize your outdoor efficiency

Disclaimer: While we are a featured provider of water-efficient plants, the Santa Clara Valley Water District does not specifically endorse any individual nursery.

Your South Bay Garden Destination

Visit Central Wholesale Nursery Today

We invite you to visit our nursery and see why we’ve been San Jose’s wholesale plant destination for 50 years. With self-service convenience, wholesale pricing, and public access, we make it easy for everyone—from landscapers to first-time gardeners—to find exactly what they need.

Stop by, walk our nursery grounds, and let our team connect you with the plants and landscaping essentials that will bring your outdoor projects to life.

Location

Serving San Jose and surrounding South Bay areas including Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Milpitas, Fremont, Morgan Hill & Gilroy.

Business Hours

Monday – Friday: 7:30 am – 4:30 pm

Saturday: 7:30 am – 3:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Contact