Garden Center and Nursery
Less Expensive Plants
Whenever practical, we don't advise spending large sums on plants that can be obtained from less expensive sources. For example:
- One of the cheapest sources is by exchanging plants with friends and neighbours. Apart from the clear benefit of building relationships, this approach has the benefit that you know where the plant has come from, that it will thrive in your locality, that you have a ready source of advice should you experience any problems and, in most cases, you can inspect the plant before accepting it.
- Many plants can be raised from cuttings that can also be obtained from friendly neighbours or even casual acquaintances. Of course, you should always ask permission before taking cuttings from anywhere. We strongly discourage doing otherwise.
- If you cannot obtain the plants for free, then consider raising plants from seed. Apart from being relatively inexpensive, you have the added satisfaction of caring for the plants from the very start. Without any extra effort or cost, you can raise more plants than you personally need, which gives you the opportunity to exchange those that are surplus to requirements with your friends and neighbours.
- You can, of course collect seed, either from plants in your own garden or from neighbours' plants, though the same advice applies as when taking cuttings that you should always seek permission first. Seeds need to be stored in suitable containers until ready for planting. Almost any kind of jar or can will do as long as it has a tight fitting lid, is dry and you can attach a label to identify what seeds are inside and when they were collected.
- If raising plants from seed seems to be just too much trouble, you can buy plug plants, which are seedlings that have been commercially raised from seed. You know the seeds have germinated successfully and you can save yourself some time and effort. Although more expensive than a packet of seed, plug plants are much cheaper than buying mature plants. The packaging will contain advice about how to grow the seedlings on and how to look after them.
- If there are allotments or a gardening association close by, it is worth checking if they have a shop or some arrangement for bulk buying. You may be welcomed, even as a non-member, and the discounts can be substantial.
Buying Less Common Plants
For more unusual plants, you may be better visiting or contacting a plant Nursery that specialises in the kind of plants you are looking for.
It is usually possible to locate such Nurseries on the Internet. Some are open to the public, whilst others operate mail order only. However, in almost all cases, you will be able to contact a member of staff who will be an enthusiastic specialist and will be able to give you invaluable expert advice.
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