If you dont have the time or inclination to grow plants from seed, then youll most likely be looking at buying potted plants from your local garden centre. But with such a large selection how can you be sure to get good quality plants that will last a long time? Of course the staff at the shop will be able to advise on what plants are best suited to your house, region and climate but they will always be a little biased as they will be more interested in what plants they want to sell rather than what plants you want to buy! So heres a few tips to help you buy the right ones and to help you look after them so that they last as long as possible.
Firstly, check the label. Most plants in a garden centre will have detailed information on the side of the pot that tells you what conditions the plant likes (indoor/outdoor, warm/cold, wet/dry), so start by checking that the plant is suitable for wherever you want to put it. The label will also give you many clues about how to take care of it.
Next, ask the staff. Generally, they will be able to give you good advice as far as taking care of the plant goes.
The most important thing you can do when selecting potting plants is to inspect it yourself. Take a lot of time to look very closely at each plant you are considering. Look out for any kind of imperfections, wilted leaves, discolorations, etc. More importantly look for any kind of bug, insects, pests or signs of disease. A good way to check for disease, rot or bugs is to shake the plant lightly and see if anything falls off it. Try putting some newspaper under the plant to get a better idea of what is falling off.
Finally check the price. Price generally reflects quality so if a plant seems to be very cheap then beware: there is probably a good reason for the low price tag!
Once you have chosen the plants you want, transport them as carefully as possible to your home and if youre going to re-pot them then do it straight away to minimise the trauma suffered by the plant. Remember plants have feelings too!
Again check the label (or the staff) for what kind of fertilising (if any) your plant requires. Also check to see how much water it needs. Some plants are very thirsty, while others will die if you over-water them so never assume that all plants are the same.
Firstly, check the label. Most plants in a garden centre will have detailed information on the side of the pot that tells you what conditions the plant likes (indoor/outdoor, warm/cold, wet/dry), so start by checking that the plant is suitable for wherever you want to put it. The label will also give you many clues about how to take care of it.
Next, ask the staff. Generally, they will be able to give you good advice as far as taking care of the plant goes.
The most important thing you can do when selecting potting plants is to inspect it yourself. Take a lot of time to look very closely at each plant you are considering. Look out for any kind of imperfections, wilted leaves, discolorations, etc. More importantly look for any kind of bug, insects, pests or signs of disease. A good way to check for disease, rot or bugs is to shake the plant lightly and see if anything falls off it. Try putting some newspaper under the plant to get a better idea of what is falling off.
Finally check the price. Price generally reflects quality so if a plant seems to be very cheap then beware: there is probably a good reason for the low price tag!
Once you have chosen the plants you want, transport them as carefully as possible to your home and if youre going to re-pot them then do it straight away to minimise the trauma suffered by the plant. Remember plants have feelings too!
Again check the label (or the staff) for what kind of fertilising (if any) your plant requires. Also check to see how much water it needs. Some plants are very thirsty, while others will die if you over-water them so never assume that all plants are the same.
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