How to Buy Plants at the Big Box Stores

How many of you have heard someone tell you "never buy your plants from Lowe's?" Or given information that somehow plants at the big box stores are inferior? I am here to tell you that the information is not entirely true! Monrovia, a very well known and reputable nursery/grower is now at Lowe's and their stuff when it comes in is absolutely gorgeous! I have dealt with Monrovia years ago when I was in the garden center business and they deal with some very exclusive plants!
There are tricks to buying from the big box stores and many of the nurseries that sell to them also sell to your local garden centers. The difference? Local garden centers usually get the premium and specialty plants. But then I have to ask...
How many of you go to your local big box store and rush to the back for the markdown plants? Well, do not be ashamed because I do this too!
I have a very green thumb and a passion for rescuing wilted and distressed plants. I cannot help myself and now after 18 years my hubby just looks the other way. I find myself more excited to buy a wilted plant than going shopping for shoes. I love the thrill of the hunt and the feeling of victory when I beat out that lady who tried to beat me to the rack to get that $3 bloomed out Hibiscus. LOL I have many tips for buying plants from the big box stores and a few I am going to share:
1) make nice and ask when new plants are to come in
2) only buy plants that come off the truck at Walmart
3) do not buy plants that have been overwatered
4) only buy plants that are 50% alive
5) wilting plants are usually okay to buy
6) sometimes plants are the markdown rack because they are done blooming-so buy them!
7) know your plant zone and read the tags and check for your zone
There are many more tips on my blog that I have shared for my success.
Happy gardening everyone!
Creating. Inspiring. Gardening without the rules!