By Jon Johnson
PIMA — A long-held dream is blooming into reality in Pima, as local landscaper Courtney Peterson and his wife, Tiffany, prepare to open Bear Paw Garden Center.
Founded in 2021, Peterson Landscaping has steadily expanded its footprint across Graham County, offering custom design-build services, drip irrigation systems, and full-scale landscape maintenance. Adding a dedicated garden center and tree nursery marks a major milestone for the business, bringing a wider selection of regionally adapted trees, shrubs, and flora directly to local homeowners and commercial properties.
Situated next to the post office off Highway 70 and right alongside the upcoming Fizz + Franks, the new location puts the center in the heart of town, making landscape planning and plant selection far more accessible for residents in Pima, Safford, and Thatcher. Beyond retail sales, the Petersons aim to build a vibrant community hub, educational site, and event space.
For Courtney, the expansion fulfills a passion that spans his entire life.
“This garden center is a lifelong dream for me. I’ve been at this since I was three,” Courtney said. “My earliest memory is separating marigold seeds with my dad in the greenhouse.”
While Bear Paw will offer a complete inventory of plants, trees, soils, fertilizers, and gardening accessories, the Petersons emphasize that education and hands-on guidance will set their business apart from typical big-box stores.
“We’re going to have a ton of education to go with that,” Courtney explained. “We’re not going to just hand you something and say good luck.”
Plans for the center include offering classes on landscaping installation, plant care, and general gardening. The couple also envision a “demonstration garden” on-site where visitors can see how various plants grow and perform in the local climate before buying them for their own yards. They are also collaborating with local schools to establish a school and community garden area to teach students about agriculture and horticulture.
Beyond gardening and education, Bear Paw Garden Center will feature a sprawling grass lawn designed for public gatherings and seasonal events. The Petersons plan to host fall festivals, pumpkin patches, holiday events with Santa, and private party rentals.
“It’s a gathering place, if you will, for the good people of Pima,” Courtney said. “Come grab your hot dog [from Fizz + Franks] and come sit on the lawn.”
Though the site is currently an open dirt lot, work is moving quickly. The Petersons are targeting a soft opening in October, complete with a lush green lawn and seasonal fall festivities, before rolling out the full center by the first of the year.
