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About Dan West

The Garden Experts

The people behind the plants. Our experts have spent decades learning what grows best in the Mid-South — and they love to share what they know.

Ferd Heckle

Owner

Ferd Heckle

In 1964, Mr. West hired Ferd Heckle, a high school student, to work part time loading and unloading feed. In 1970 Ferd became a partner in the business and in 1986 purchased the business when Mr. West retired.

Through the years, Ferd has made it a point to hire high school students for part time and summer work. It's his way of giving back to a community that has supported him for 50 years.

As with most small businesses, the owners do everything from ordering and buying to watering the plants and occasionally sweeping the floor. With the addition of a few key employees, Ferd has been able to focus on making sure that everything is geared to making your visit to Dan West the best shopping experience possible.


Kenneth Mabry

Gardening Expert

Kenneth Mabry

In 2017, Kenneth celebrated 35 years at Dan West. His outgoing personality and extensive knowledge of this business has made him one of the area's foremost experts and led him to radio in 2001.

Customers know, when they enter the door at Dan West, they will be greeted with Kenneth's smile and a "hey baby" and leave with the very best of information, plants, or gardening products.

On the Radio

Join Kenneth, Vador Vance, Jim Crowder and guests every Saturday morning on KWAM 990 AM & FM 107.9, 6–8 am, for gardening tips and seasonal advice for the Mid-South.

About the Radio Show

Visit Dan West

Come see what is growing now

Stop by either of our Memphis-area locations and talk to the team. Whether you have a question about your lawn, need the right plant for a shady spot, or just want to browse the season's best — we are here to help.