Cordova Family Roots

Joe and Martha Cordova were both born in small villages in northern Mexico and arrived in Encinitas in 1973, with not much more than dreams of owning a retail garden/nursery business and a willingness and hope to work hard and provide a better life for their family.

Cordova Greenhouses was built in 1987 and was the first wholesale greenhouse operation in Encinitas to open to the public (with out a minimum purchase). With the growth of the new family business in mind, the greenhouse was established as growing grounds for the Cordova Gardens retail center. During the early years, Joe Sr. and his son, Joe Jr., would spend the weekends selling plants at Kobey’s Swap meet, while Martha and her daughter Danette, would assist customers at Cordova Greenhouses.

Known for having the largest variety of indoor and outdoor tropical plants and drought tolerant succulents, its also boasts the best selection of pottery, fountains, statuary, birdbaths, tables and benches and more, the Cordova family dedicates many months during the year to exploring new and beautiful cultures with which to purchase new wares for their San Diego customers.

Decades later Cordova Gardens remains a dream in progress, and our family has grown to include 3 grandchildren. Joe Jr’s son Ananda Ra Cordova and Danette Cordova’s 2 children, daughter Layla, and son Dempsey. Joe Cordova Sr. is often seen at Cordova Garden’s playing with his grandchildren, while Ananda Ra is on grounds collecting snails and caterpillars. Martha Cordova can be found in the back of the greenhouses planting succulents, when she is not working in her own private garden.

We love to see new faces, young and old, experiencing a relaxing stroll through our gardens and greenhouses. Together, the new and long time customers, who have been with us for decades, keep our family dream alive. This amazing community remembers the early years of Cordova Greenhouses and understands the importance of having a special place to grow and live their gardening dreams.
Thank you for your continuous support in maintaining our dream!

Please come and visit us, we welcome you to our family…nuestra casa, es su casa!