About Us

In 1980, Dianne and Mike Sr. borrowed money from Dianne’s parents and, with their two small children, started selling mushroom compost out of the back of an old flatbed truck. While both working full-time jobs, they spent all of their spare time building what would eventually become Sparetime Supply.

In 1983, Mike finished building the original retail store and Sparetime Supply officially opened its doors in Willits, California. What started as a small nursery quickly became a place built on hard work, honesty, community, and customer service.

Over the years, the garden center has continued to grow while staying true to its roots. In the spring of 2024, Sparetime expanded the customer experience with the addition of The Gardener’s Pantry & Décor, offering unique home décor, gifts, garden-inspired goods, and seasonal finds.

Today, Sparetime remains committed to serving the local community that helped build it. We believe in the power of relationships and take pride in being straightforward, honest, and helpful. Our humble beginnings continue to shape who we are and how we care for our customers every day.

On any given day, you might still catch a glimpse of Mike Sr. around the garden center, a reminder that the heart of Sparetime is still rooted in family, hard work, and community.