Tips on Buying Container Plants

Attention all impulse shoppers! All true plant lovers know how tempting it is to walk through a garden center full of vivid blooms and verdant foliage. It's difficult not to pick up at least one little extra plant not on your list that day!

While a spontaneous purchase can turn out to be a real blessing in the garden, more often impulses lead to wasted money and plant materials. There is either no planting spot suitable for the plant or the plant doesn't fit the needs of the garden.

Here are some suggestions to help you avoid those impulse buys and choose healthy plants on your list.

First, know your needs. How much attention are you willing to give a specific plant? Is the planting area sunny or shady? Moist or dry? Know the size and color requirements of your landscape. Avoiding plants that don't suit these needs will save you time and worry.

Once you know what species you need, examine each specific plant. Often, the plants have been on the shelf a long time without proper care and attention and are no longer the best buy for your money. Gently tap the plant out of its container and look at the roots. If the roots swirl around the bottom of the mass and there is little remaining soil, the plant is "pot bound" and has been constricted too long in a pot that is too small. This environment can lead to stunting, poor performance and, in many cases, death.

Bedding plants, such as impatiens or begonias, packed too close into flats are likely to have increased insect and disease problems. These same plants can become overgrown in the small spaces in which the roots are forced to grow. Avoid plants that have grown tall and lanky (taller is not necessarily better). Choose plants that are small and stocky. Inspect each plant for signs of insect damage such as frass and feeding damage. Many insect pests feed underneath the young, tender leaves and may go unnoticed without special attention. A garden center employee should be able to assist you in identifying any insect you may find.

Employing these simple recommendations in your plant-shopping routine will save time and money, and in the long run, provide you with a happier and healthier garden.