Northern Star Mills: Serving Chico Families for Over a Century

Northern Star Mills painted brick sign reading Farm, Garden and Pet Supplies — The sign on the building at 510 Esplanade has been a Chico landmark for generations.

The brick building at 510 Esplanade has a painted logo on the wall, a parking lot most people blow past, and a history that predates the paved road it sits on. Northern Star Mills has been part of this community since 1898. While new owners David and Delphine Jespersen took it over in 2024, the inventory and spirit of the store have remained the same.

Walk in expecting a small feed-and-seed shop. What's actually inside is closer to a working warehouse — high timber-truss ceilings, hand-lettered signs pointing to Birdseed, Garden Supplies, Lawn Care, Pet Food — and aisle after aisle of things people in Chico actually use.

Interior of Northern Star Mills showing birdseed and garden supplies sections under timber-truss ceiling — The warehouse floor spreads out under original timber trusses — birdseed, garden supplies, pet toys, and more.

For Your Garden

The seed rack alone is worth a stop. They carry Botanical Interests — non-GMO verified packets with growing instructions printed on the inside flap. Basil, chives, rosemary, black-eyed Susan, bachelor's button — a full wall of options. Beyond seeds, they stock fertilizers, soils, and pest control products. It's a complete garden section, not a seasonal endcap.

Botanical Interests seed display rack inside Northern Star Mills with non-GMO verified packets — A full rack of Botanical Interests seeds — non-GMO verified, with growing info inside every packet.

Yes, There Are Baby Chicks

Whether you're bringing home your first chicks or expanding an established flock, Northern Star Mills has the supplies to help you get started, including heat lamps, feeders, bedding, and more. In a town like Chico, where backyard chickens are a natural fit for many households, the store's complete selection continues to meet a real need. It's a reflection of Chico's practical roots — and Northern Star Mills has been serving that spirit for over 125 years.

Woman holding a small yellow baby chick inside Northern Star Mills — Baby chicks and all the gear to raise a flock — one of the things that makes Northern Star Mills genuinely different.

For Your Pets

Northern Star Mills claims the North Valley's largest selection of pet food and supplies. The floor supports it: pallets of Diamond Naturals, Taste of the Wild, Forza10, Health Extension — floor-stacked bags alongside full shelving units. Dog, cat, and bird supplies all covered. If you've been driving out of your way for a specialty brand, check here first.

Stacked pallets and shelves of pet food bags including Diamond Naturals and Taste of the Wild — The pet food section runs deep — multiple brands, multiple bag sizes, all under one roof.

Hours & Location

Open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; Saturday 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM; closed Sundays. Parking is off the Esplanade — pull around the side of the building. Give yourself more time than you think you need.

510 Esplanade, Chico. (530) 342-7661.

As a local, I think a store that has outlasted every chain that's ever tried to put it out of business deserves at least one visit. Stop in and see what they have — trust me on this.

— About the author

Sierra Haskins