How to Buy Plants

This is the time of year we all enjoy working in the yard. The weather is cool and plants are adorned with new green growth. We need to take advantage of this time when our enthusiasm is at its highest level to make some changes in our landscapes. If we wait too long, the warm weather and the mundane task of mowing grass will erode most of our enthusiasm.

One change that can greatly increase the beauty of a landscape is the addition of new plants. This may require the removal of some old plants or the establishment of new planting beds. Before rushing out to a nursery to buy plants, study your planting site and try to match the growing requirements of the plants you buy with the growing conditions that exist on your site. Some plants grow best in full sun while others prefer partial shade. Azaleas, camellias and ixoras grow best in acid soils while there are many plants that will grow well in acid or alkaline soils.

After determining the growing conditions of your site and the number of plants you will need, you are ready to purchase plants. Plants, like all goods and services, come in many sizes, shapes and qualities. It is just as important to evaluate a plant before purchase as it is to carefully inspect a garment or home appliance.

A cheap plant, in most instances, is exactly what the name implies. You may pay very little but you will probably get little in return. Nurseries will periodically have sales where they offer top quality at a minimum price. But, this is an exception to the rule, not a common occurrence. In most cases the best plants will be the most expensive. But how do you determine best?

First of all, patronize a reputable nurserymen who has a neat and presentable place. A sloppy nursery often indicates poorly maintained plants.

Secondly, inspect each plant individually. Don't fall for the "hard sell" where you are not allowed to see all your plants. Downgrade any plant having the following characteristics: lack of health and vigor or excessive succulence. An unhealthy plant is apparent in most cases. Look for weak, poorly formed, scarred, cracked or peeling trucks or branches. Poorly distributed branches usually lead to "leggy" plants and should be avoided. A compact plant is usually more desirable. Avoid plants having leaves of improper shape, size or color. Excessive yellowing of leaves is an indication of a problem. Examine leaves for insect, disease and mechanical damage.

For container grown plants, make sure the root system is well established but not root-bound or growing out of the containers. Roots should be firmly incorporated throughout the soil, but not protruding outside or penetrating into the ground.

Most container plants within a species are priced according to size. Plants growing in three gallon containers are generally larger and more expensive than those in one gallon containers. However, make your selection on plant size rather than container size. Frequently, plants growing in larger containers are the same size or a little larger that those in smaller pots. You may be paying plenty for a plastic container and potting soil.

Also make sure the plant is adapted to your area. Will the plant survive the low or high temperatures in your area? Will it flower and/or fruit properly? Is it tolerant to salt spray, if you live in such an area? And, is it labelled properly as to species and variety?

If you can follow most of these suggestions on how to select a good plant, you will obtain quality and save money.


Copyright by Dr. Bob's Gardening Tips