Question
Where is a cheaper place to buy plants in CT, other than Home depot/orLowes?

Answer
I am not familiar with CT, but when I want to find a good price on my plants, I call on the phone, and compare prices.  Just pick a plant, for example, a dwarf peach tree, then see who has it for the cheapest price for the size. Size is important. You will not want to compare a gallon container with five gallon container. So, find out how tall the peach tree is, and how big the container is.
Also watch for sales. The later in the season it gets, the lower the prices. You can save as much as 75 percent on the plants you buy in the fall, instead of in the spring.