Our Story

About the foundation of Buried Alive—an Atypical Plant Shoppe…

Growing up as a USAF brat, I had the incredible privilege of living in all kinds of climates, surrounded by nature’s wonders—especially plants and animals. With both of my grandparents running farms, I thought growing flowers and veggies was in my blood. But, as it turns out, knowing how to properly water plants and give them the right light wasn’t as instinctual as I’d hoped! By the time I was 18, I’d sadly become the graveyard for many plants. It wasn’t pretty.

After a few attempts at keeping indoor plants in my late teens and early twenties, I was about to give up entirely, convinced my house was where plants went to die. But there was always this little spark inside me—this craving for lush greenery, quirky succulents, and cacti that were either adorable or full of character. Something changed, and I knew I couldn’t give up.

In 2015, my daughter and I jumped on the succulent bandwagon. By January 2016, we decided we were going to master these plants once and for all. With lots of trial and error, and a lot of love, we started West Texas Succulents, selling pre-potted succulents and cacti at local markets. Before weknew it, things were taking off and it was a blast!

Naturally, one plant obsession led to another. Soon we were researching indoor plants, applying the lessons we’d learned from succulents to keep them thriving. We even dove into the fascinating world of mycelium! All the while, my dream of owning a mobile plant shop began to grow.

In 2019, as my love for plants deepened, I realized there was a real need for a plant community—a place where people could share, learn, and swap. So, I started a Facebook group for plant lovers in our area. Little did I know that just as we were getting started, the world was about to change. The 2020 plant boom arrived, and with it, a surge of new plant parents—and my group grew to over 2,000 members! It became a warm, welcoming space where no one felt judged, and plant swaps and discussions were always encouraged.Life, as it does, threw some curveballs. With five kids and health challenges (some of which affected my boys and me), my plant collection took a backseat a few times. But I learned that it’s never too late to start fresh. In 2024, when the opportunity to purchase a landscaping company with an indoor nursery came up, I knew it was time to make my dream of opening a plant shop real.

Buried Alive Nursery isn’t your typical plant shop. It’s a space built on community, creativity, and the love of plants. It’s a place where everyone—especially those like me and my neurodiverse family—can find joy in touching soil, smelling moss, and marveling at the beauty of plants. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or just starting your journey, we want you to feel at home.

We carry the expected indoor plants, but also the unexpected, the atypical ones you won’t find just anywhere. From common favorites like pothos and peace lilies to rare finds and quirky cacti, our shop is full of surprises. We’re here to help our customers create their dream spaces—whether it’s a cozyhome or a vibrant office. And we love offering hands-on experiences like plant workshops, DIY build stations, and events that bring people together.

I envision Buried Alive as a place that feels different every time you visit—where the plants, the art, and the atmosphere are always changing. I want people to walk in and instantly feel a sense of peace and joy. It’s a space for families, for creative minds, and for anyone who loves plants.

Looking ahead, I dream of expanding our offerings with plant deliveries, party bookings, and even plant care services. I want Buried Alive to be a place where you not only buy plants but also leave feeling inspired and connected. And with an online shop, classes, and all kinds of fun merch on the horizon, there’s so much more to come.

Buried Alive Nursery isn’t just a plant shop. It’s a community, a sanctuary, and a celebration of all the little things that make life—just like plants—so beautifully unexpected.

-Ashli Powell,

Momma Monstera