Sierra Water on Dickerson Road is a sanctuary where community and nature intertwine. Sunlight filters through the tall warehouse windows, lighting the shelves all filled with greenery. The scent of fresh soil lingers with subtle notes of coffee from the Forged Roasting Co. trailer parked inside. All around there’s handcrafted ceramic pots, delicate stained glass lamps, clothing, and plants to fit any household.
At the heart of it all is owner Samantha Stremmel. What began as a pop-up has become one of Reno’s most inviting plant shops.
Stremmel’s journey to Sierra Water began long before she opened its doors. Raised on a farm in Montana, she grew up surrounded by nature, working on her family’s organic vegetable farm.
“My mom always had plants in the house but I never really thought about taking care of them myself,” she remembers. “It wasn’t until much later that I realized how much they were a part of me.”
In 2010, after graduating from Montana State University she and her husband, Sutter Stremmel, made the move to Reno. The couple took a bold step and purchased a foreclosed property and turned into their Sierra Water Gardens along the Truckee River.
By 2017, they were ready for a new chapter and shifted their focus on a smaller indoor plant shop instead.
Initially it was a small pop up while they opened The Wedge Ceramics Studio next door, but it quickly turned into something permanent.
“It was such a great experience, and people loved it. I knew I had to make it something more,” Samantha says.
Today, stepping inside Sierra Water is a full experience. The shop has become a space where people can slow down and browse, enjoying the beauty around them.
Alongside artisan ceramics you’ll find the potting station, allowing customers to have their plants potted on site with a high quality soil blend and a special amendment “Soil Candy” to help them thrive.
“We love helping people find the right plants for their space,” Samantha said. “Even if you’re a beginner, we’ll make sure you feel successful before you leave.”
Then there’s the ‘flower bar, offering fresh stems for customers to build their own arrangements or choose from ready made bouquets. The Stremmel’s source their plants from wholesalers in California and collaborate with small batch artisans.
Many of the ceramic pots sold at Sierra Water are made by local artists.
“I love that we get to support artists and bring in pieces that are both functional and beautiful,” she says.
Beyond the products, Samantha and her team are there to lend a hand. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a first time buyer they’ll guide you towards the right greenery for your space.
“Plants are for everyone. Even if you’ve killed a plant or two, we’ll help you find something you can keep alive.”
Stremmel loves making the process approachable, ensuring everyone leaves comfortably with their new green addition.
“People bring in pictures of their homes and we help them choose a plant that will thrive. And we love answering questions because our goal is to make sure everyone feels confident when they leave,” she concludes.