Where to Buy Plants: Best Sources for Quality and Value

Plants come from many sources—some free. Watch for pests or aggressive “garden thugs” when accepting divisions. The cheapest route is starting from seed. Local plant sales (garden clubs, charities) offer bargains and expert tips. Garden centers, discount stores, home centers, mail‑order nurseries, and online retailers are all options.

Plant Sales

Club/charity sales are the bargain basement—unique plants, growing advice, low prices. Bring a wagon.

Mail‑Order Nurseries

Often the only source for newest introductions. Check online reviews. Know the plant size you’re getting—some specialize in small liners, hence lower prices.

Garden Centers

Broad, deep selections organized by name and light needs. Plants usually well‑cared‑for. Good for small pots that save long‑term money. Avoid buying only what’s in bloom during your shopping window, or you’ll get a seasonally lopsided garden.

Home Centers / Big‑Box Stores

Best for large quantities of uniform plants. Selection slimmer, care may be less attentive. Buy as soon as possible after delivery (call for schedule). Prices often beat garden centers, but pot sizes may be larger and pricier. Compare.

How to Choose a Healthy Plant

Don’t judge by looks alone. Inspect leaves and roots: gently slide the plant out of its pot (press sides, invert, cradle stems—don’t pull by stems).

• Healthy roots: White, ivory, or tan, reaching pot edges. Soil smells moist.
• Root‑bound: Roots circling bottom—tease out and cut before planting.
• Sick leaves/roots: Damaged leaves may indicate disease; slimy, mushy roots or sewer‑gas smell = root rot.
• Weeds on soil surface: May mean the plant was held over from last year—check roots to be sure.