Greengate Garden Center to close after more than 65 years in Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Greengate Garden Center, a longtime staple for Southwest Louisiana gardeners, is closing its doors after serving the community for generations.

The family-run nursery has offered plants and landscaping help in Lake Charles since 1960. Now, after more than 65 years in business, the Dondis family says it’s time to close.

“My parents packed up the truck in Lafayette and drove to Lake Charles and opened this nursery. So, I really, literally grew up in the nursery,” said Nathan Dondis, the son of the owners.

Dondis said his mother, Sallie, is 91 years old and ready to retire. With no family member able to take over the business, Greengate is winding down.

Greengate’s general manager, Samuel Cabuk, said the nursery has always been as much about people as it is about plants.

“She was friendly with customers. She knew everybody’s name when they came in here. She loved the place, she loved the plants, she loved the people,” Cabuk said.

Since the closing announcement, community members have been stopping by in droves — many to pick up what they can as inventory sells out, and others simply to say goodbye.

Several customers who spoke with me at the nursery said they’re sad to see Greengate close, describing it as a go-to spot they’ve relied on for years for both plants and advice.

For employees, the news has also been emotional.

“It was very unexpected, but I’m making the best of it… I’ll be here as long as they need me. I’m here for them,” said Jonathon Thomas, Greengate’s labor manager.

The family has not announced a set closing date, but they say plants and vegetables are selling quickly as the community continues to show support.

Nathan Dondis said the family is grateful for decades of loyalty from Southwest Louisiana.

“Thank you to Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana for the support and loyalty that we’ve enjoyed for, well, for 66 years,” Dondis said.

While the Dondis family said they are very sad to say goodbye, they hope the community remembers Greengate as Lake Charles’ horticulture home away from home.