Going to your local nursery can be a fun-filled occasion, but also can be a mine field of choices. You want to pick well preforming plants for your growing space. Here are five tips to help you pick the best plants for a productive garden or flower bed.
1. Check it over
Plants have visible hints that show how healthy they are. The first area to check is the leaves, they should be vibrant and healthy. Unhealthy plants may show signs of wilting, burn damage or discoloration. Avoid leggy and stretched out plants when possible.
Next check for pests, most are visibly apparent. For example, aphids come in various colors ranging from light green to brown and often appear on the underside of leaves. You do not want to purchase a plant with aphids on it as they may spread to and damage your other plants.
Last, check the roots. The easiest way to do this is to hold the pot up and look for roots popping out of the bottom. It is acceptable to gently pull the plant out of its container so you can check them. Be careful not to damage the plant. When checking the roots look for robust, healthy root systems without any circling.
2. Keep it local
Shopping at local nurseries not only supports local business, but also comes with a number of perks. Plants at local nurseries are often healthier as they have high quality standards and the staff is usually knowledgeable. Depending on the nursery, the plants themselves may be local and well adapted to your area.
Plants and supplies at local nurseries are frequently cheaper. However, it never hurts to price compare with other stores. Even if the plants are at a premium it may be worth it, especially if the nursery offers a warranty.
3. Ask for help
Nursery employees usually do not bite, it is usually their job to answer questions. This is another perk of shopping local. Employees at local nurseries may know how different plants fair in your area. You can also ask for discounts if a plant looks unwell but may recover.
Do not be afraid to ask for help from employees, friends, online communities or even other shoppers. Asking another person what they think can help with selecting a healthy plant and you may even get some extra garden advice out of it.
4. Make a list
Like grocery shopping, it is good to have a list when shopping for plants. Making a list beforehand not only helps you pick healthy plants, but it is also good for your wallet. If you know what kind of plants you are looking for, you can look for specific characteristics in those plants and watch for pests they are prone to.
Making a list helps you know what to look for instead of buying at random. Impulse buying plants is a serious temptation for many gardeners.
5. Play it safe
If you are not sure about the health of the plant you are looking at, do not buy it. Especially if the plant looks diseased or is carrying a pest. It is better not to get one plant than to bring a disease or pest home and infect all your other plants.
If you are fixated on one specific variety or need certain plant soon, be sure to check other nurseries in your area before compromising.