In early 2020, Dee Ferguson was physically and creatively drained. She’d just sold the service business she’d owned for 15 years and wanted to explore every option for her future—and then the pandemic forced everyone into their homes. So Ferguson chose a natural next step: houseplants. In December 2020, she opened rOOTS KC, a plant shop with a loyal following and three locations across the Kansas City metro.
Ferguson’s goal is simple—“to match Kansas Citians with the best plant and pot for their space and lifestyle”—and her stores’ selection is as diverse as their locales. Houseplants range from the ever-trendy fiddle leaf to eye-catchers like the monstera swiss cheese and the philodendron dragon tail, and pots range from classic ceramic to hanging disco balls.
Ferguson (maiden name Oots, hence the name of the shops) has always loved plants, and she knows the plant’s journey doesn’t end at the purchase. At rOOTS KC they provide detailed care instructions, pot and re-pot plants, and offer in-person and virtual diagnostics to ensure plants stay happy—whether they were purchased from rOOTS KC or not.
“The problem most plant owners have experienced is purchasing a plant in a big-box store and having no idea how to care for it,” says Ferguson. “We ensure our customers have the right knowledge and tools to be successful with the plants they purchase for their space.”
For Ferguson, there’s no better space for a business than Kansas City.
“The energy of this community is truly what fuels success,” says Ferguson. “The support we’ve received from Kansas City has been incredible, and I genuinely believe it’s the best place to own a business.”
Dee’s essentials...
Go-To Garden: The Laura Conyers Smith Municipal Rose Garden in Loose Park. It’s the gem of our city, and you will find my family there every summer strolling through the rose garden and people watching.
Local Maker: I have several favorites, but I find myself talking most about Adrianna Pence with Who is She Clay. She is an amazing human and does so much for the maker community. Her jewelry pieces are made from zero-waste clay and are available for sale at our stores.
Hidden Gem: When people think of outdoor malls in KC, they often find big retailers, but that is not the case at Zona Rosa, and I love that the Northland holds a special space for these businesses. Forty percent of its businesses are local and woman owned.
Caffeine Fix: I love so many cafes, but the one I most support is Fitti’s Espresso in the Northland. They are a veteran- and woman-owned company—we love that!—and I always get an Earl Grey Latte with oat milk, sweetened with honey instead of vanilla.
Best Bite: Go visit our girl Nicki at The Westside Local. My favorite thing to eat there is the grilled cheese and tomato soup with a side of tater tots. And while you’re there, try the Westsider cocktail.
Can’t-Miss Event: The Plaza Lights ceremony on the evening of Thanksgiving. We have missed one in 19 years (in 2020, but we did watch it at home). When those lights come on, everyone is instantly filled with magic. It’s amazing.