Our mission
To efficiently produce premium quality plants that will bring joy to our customers’ homes and communities while providing exceptional customer service.
Nestled into the rolling hills of Fallbrook, California, Sunlet Nursery Inc. has grown into a thriving business based on two underlying principles: pride in every plant shipped, taking care of every customer served.
Back in 1985, John and Janet Kister founded Sunlet Nursery through their shared passion for plants. They would serve the market by offering more unusual flowering plants than were typically available. With a nod to Fallbrook’s perfect growing conditions, they named the nursery Sunlet, literally translating to “a little bit of the sun”. Each plant supports this by proudly declaring “California Sunshine included.”
A good product mix, however, was only part of the plan. An unwavering commitment to customer service and business integrity was equally important. As vital as Southern California’s Mediterranean-like climate to their plants, finding and retaining quality employees was key from the start.
Over the years, Sunlet Nursery’s operation has expanded to 26 acres in Fallbrook, California. Featuring 225,000 square feet of greenhouse space, 5 acres of shade house and 15 acres of full-sun production, Sunlet has earned a reputation as a consistent source of quality plant material. “Our intent is to meet and exceed the customer’s expectations. We want them to know they can depend on receiving exactly what they ordered, with no unwelcome surprises,” said Janet.
Sunlet Nursery’s hallmark is rigorous attention to detail at every step: choosing the very best varieties, employing modern growing techniques, then selecting, carefully packing, shipping and following up. As a result, virtually all of Sunlet’s customers represent long-time repeat business.
The company regularly trials and evaluates new, unusual plants that it believes will appeal to customers. However, uniqueness alone doesn’t guarantee that a variety is added to the line. “We have to know that we can grow it well and that it will ship flawlessly to our customers, or we’d rather not offer it,” Janet remarked. Indeed, the company has declined business when it knew a particular customer’s request wouldn’t ship well or perform as needed. “I’d rather say no than risk disappointing the customer.”
The people of Sunlet Nursery believe that unique products and sound, ethical business practices will never go out of fashion. We invite you to experience our dedication to growing exceptional plants and giving superior personal service today.
Recognizing the need for fresh ideas and perspectives to help navigate the company into the future, Sunlet Nursery was acquired in early 2023 by Miguel de la Madrid, a seasoned industry leader with a proven track record of success. Miguel is excited to lead Sunlet into its next chapter of growth and innovation, while continuing the goal to continuously seek out and add new and improved varieties to the plant offerings..
Miguel has a wealth of experience in the nursery industry. He has worked for one of the largest and most successful nurseries in the country, and he has a deep understanding of what works to energize and appeal to the consumer. He is also passionate about gardening and is committed to providing customers with the best possible experience.
Miguel is confident that he can achieve Sunlet Nursery’s goals with the help of its talented employees. He is excited to work with them at a nursery that is known for its high-quality products, excellent customer service, and commitment to sustainability.
Millions of plants sold to wholesale customers nationwide.
Our team specializes in producing flowering plants that range from seasonal favorites such as Shamrocks to everyday classics like Kalanchoes.
Sunlet also produces quality fern and Christmas cactus liners for other wholesale growers.
