In the mid-1980s, John Ferguson had a severe reaction to a chemical fungicide that left him hospitalized for weeks. That time allowed him to rethink everything he knew about soil, plants and the hidden world beneath our feet.
That revelation became the seed for Nature’s Way Resources, a company that has redefined Texans’ views on gardening, compost and sustainability.
Ferguson passed on Oct. 31, and his legacy continues to shape the company he built. Here is a look at the history and impact of Nature’s Way Resources—an operation founded by a true industry legend.
The health scare that started it all
Nature’s Way Resources’ idea didn’t come from a business plan; it came from a near-lethal chemical exposure that forced Ferguson to rethink everything. Determined to understand healthy soil, he applied his master’s in physics and geology and licensure as a soil scientist, approaching the problem like a researcher with the heart of a gardener.
When he transitioned from the oil industry to landscaping, he saw a gap: safe, biologically rich, organic soils didn’t exist. Rather than settle for conventional products, Ferguson set out to create something better. Launching an organic soil company in the 1990s came with major challenges—skeptical investors and an unconventional market—but through research, trial and error, he developed biologically rich composts and soils from recycled materials.
Education became a cornerstone of his mission. He wrote articles, hosted tours and held workshops, always emphasizing the why behind gardening practices.
He started publishing the “Lazy Gardener & Friends” Newsletter, a long-running column in the Houston Chronicle. Later, he created his own column, “John’s Corner,” continuing to share insights, tips and stories that educated and inspired gardeners across the region.
Ferguson formed Nature’s Way Resources from his passion for gardening and commitment to environmental responsibility. He believed in working with nature—recycling organic materials, avoiding synthetic chemicals and creating natural solutions rooted in science. These principles remain the company’s foundation.
What makes Nature’s Way Resources unique?
Nature’s Way Resources is more than a soil supplier; it’s a company built on sustainability, science and education. They specialize in biologically rich soils, composts and mulches made entirely from recycled organic materials—turning waste into a resource and reflecting Ferguson’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The company offers a curated selection of regionally appropriate plants through its retail nursery, pairing the right plants with the right soils for long-term success. Every product follows Ferguson’s guiding principles: no synthetic chemicals, focus on ecosystem health and materials that work in harmony with nature.
Nature’s Way stands out for its emphasis on education and community. Tours, workshops and events teach gardeners and landscapers about soil biology, composting and sustainable practices, continuing Ferguson’s mission to share knowledge and inspire better stewardship.
Nature’s Way Resources has become a trusted leader in organic landscaping and soil health, carrying forward Ferguson’s vision while innovating for the future, with high-quality products, scientific rigor and community engagement.
A legacy of education and innovation
Ferguson’s influence extended far beyond his company.
He co-founded the Organic Horticulture Benefits Alliance, shifted regional landscaping practices toward organic solutions, and mentored countless colleagues and gardeners.
His curiosity and dedication fostered a culture of innovation and environmental responsibility at Nature’s Way. Ian Ferguson, who began preparing to lead the company in 2019, now carries the torch—honoring his father’s standards while bringing fresh ideas to expand the reach of organic landscaping.
Continuing the vision
Nature’s Way Resources remains a living embodiment of John Ferguson’s philosophy: understand nature, respect it and design solutions in harmony with it. The principles he championed guide every decision as the company grows and adapts for a new generation. Ferguson may be gone, but his vision for healthier soils, gardens and communities is alive.
Visit www.natureswayresources.com for more about Nature’s Way Resources and John Ferguson’s legacy.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.
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