Spring is usually when most people get back to shopping for plants. Garden centers are fully stocked and ready for the high demand. So, when you go to the garden center, it’s easy to get caught up. Trust us we know! (See our cart in the picture). 😄 Seeing all of the beautiful new blooms and lush plants makes it hard not to impulse or over-buy.
Our cart at the Garden Center.
However, doing so can cause a few problems. One, there may not be a suitable location in your yard for all of the plants. Two, you may not have the time to plant everything you buy. Three, you may purchase plants you can’t care for or that won’t thrive in the local environmental conditions. To avoid these costly mistakes, follow these tips:
Plan Ahead
Before going to the garden center, know what you are shopping for. Going in blindly is the easiest way to impulse and over-buy. So, know the areas of your garden where you need to add new plants. Then ask yourself the following, what type of light does the location get, and how much space is available? These key questions will help you focus on the plants you need and how many.
Know your Time
Having enough time to plant what you buy helps avoid wasting money if plants wilt and die before you can plant them. Plants purchased and left to sit unplanted for too long often get neglected or forgotten. After purchase, plants have the best opportunity to survive if they are immediately planted in rich soil, with the proper light, and regularly watered. Keeping your time limitations for planting the flowers in mind while at the garden center will help you focus on only buying what you need.
Understand the Plant’s Needs
Read the plant label to ensure you are fully aware of a plant’s care requirements. This confirms you are buying plants that meet the needs of your garden. It also allows you to avoid buying plants that may not be suitable for local conditions. Some garden centers, especially big-box retailers, receive plants from nurseries that may not be totally familiar with the local climate. In some instances, if a nursery has only a general understanding of the weather conditions, some plants may not thrive in your area. So, it’s important to ensure you understand how to care for the plant and that environmental conditions are suitable for it to survive.
Plant Grow Enjoy ™