Tips for Buying Spring Plants

Going to your local garden center in the early spring can be challenging because many summer annuals are not blooming. Today I’ll share some thoughts for great early spring plant selection. Southern Gardening is at Buds & Blooms where they’re getting ready for the spring and summer season. In the greenhouse there are rows upon rows and trays upon trays of plants. How do you decide on what to get for your landscape and garden? Here are my top tips for early spring plant buying. A good tip whenever you’re shopping for plants is to inspect first. Look for healthy leaves, these will be the first sign of a great plant. You want to make sure the plants are well rooted, so take a look. Carefully hold the plant, turn it over and remove the pot. You should see roots around the surface of the growing mix. If not, the plant is not ready. Know what you’re looking for before even arriving at the garden center. Now is not the time for impulse buying, that’s for later in the season. For example, I know I’m going to grow Vista Bubblegum supertunia this year. So, I’ll buy at this size knowing it will grow to this size during the summer. And the last tip is be sure to read the plant tag for light, water and especially growth characteristics. Knowing what you’re doing will get you the best selection and a jump on the summer season. I’m horticulturist Gary Bachman and I’ll see you next time on Southern Gardening.