Nursery Plant Shopping Secrets from a Pro

Barbara Pierson, nursery manager at White Flower Farm, shares insider tips for choosing healthy, site-appropriate plants.

Secret #1: Read the Label

Exposure, hardiness zone, mature height and width—the label tells you everything. The right plant in the right spot thrives with fewer pests and diseases.

Secret #2: Know Your Garden

Sun or shade? Evergreen structure or seasonal color? Have a plan (or at least a target area) before you shop. Know your hardiness zone.

Secret #3: Start Small (Beginners)

Don't overwhelm yourself. Begin with a focal shrub and easy perennials like Salvia 'May Night' and Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'.

Secret #4: Try New Varieties (Experienced)

Explore new introductions—roses, shrubs, perennials—each year brings exciting options.

At the Nursery

• Ask questions. Staff can diagnose past failures and guide you.
• Use labels + your plan. Match plant needs to your site; stagger bloom times.
• Check roots. Roots emerging from drainage holes indicate a well-rooted plant. Avoid pot-bound specimens with circling roots.
• Prefer foliage over forced flowers. A plant with lots of leaves and no forced blooms transplants better.
• Judge shrubs/trees by fullness. Look for many stems, good foliage, and no signs of stress (brown leaves, spotted foliage).
• Buy in groups. For perennials/annuals, purchase at least three of a kind for visual impact.

Do your research, bring a plan, and don't hesitate to ask for help. Good preparation pays off in a thriving garden.