Guidelines on Purchasing Plants Online or In-Store: Expert Advice
In the world of gardening, the choice of where to buy plants can be as personal as choosing the right recipe for a meal. With the rise of technology and COVID lockdowns, more and more people are turning to online plant retailers to satisfy their green thumb needs. One such enthusiast is Amy Grant, a professional chef and caterer with 30 years of gardening experience and 15 years of writing, who now purchases her plants online.
However, buying plants online can be a trickier proposition compared to shopping in person. Before making a purchase, it's essential to evaluate the online site by checking their return policy or warranty, packaging methods, shipping costs, price points, size of the pot the plant will come in, and their availability for customer service or further information.
When it comes to choosing the plants themselves, it's recommended to do thorough research before making a purchase, whether in person or online. For flowering plants, opt for those with new buds rather than those that are in full bloom or have spent blossoms. It's also crucial to consider the plant's cold and heat tolerance, sun exposure, invasiveness, if it's a container-grown plant, its messiness, suitable companion plants, mature height and width, and whether it's the best selection for your needs.
Checking for signs of disease or pests is equally important. Signs of disease or pests can include mottled, chlorotic, holey, or scarce foliage, and roots that are spilling out of the bottom or top of the plant may indicate it's rootbound.
For those who prefer shopping in person, the benefit lies in being able to see the plant and choose the healthiest one. Local farmer's markets, big box stores, and larger supermarket chains may have vendors selling plants during the growing season. Local social media sites such as Nextdoor may also have neighbours selling veggie or house plant starts, divided irises, or seeds.
Some online sellers offer unique advantages, such as rare specimens, free shipping, or bulk discounts, and may specialize in specific types of plants like bulbs, succulents, house plants, trees, and shrubs. Big box stores and larger supermarket chains may stock plants like bare root fruit trees, chrysanthemums, and summer bulbs, but these may not be available to those without a membership at warehouse clubs.
Connecting with others via the internet can also be a way to purchase plants. Online communities and forums dedicated to gardening can provide valuable insights and recommendations.
Remember, whether you choose to buy plants online or in person, the key is to do your research and make an informed decision. Happy plant shopping!
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