Choosing the Right Garden Center for Your Garden

There are so many garden centers to choose from that it’s easier than ever to find good quality plants, pots and other supplies for your garden. However, not all garden centers are created equal. The centers attached to large box stores, grocery stores and hardware stores may not offer the selection of plants and merchandise that you’ll find in a specialist center and may not be staffed by plant experts. So how do you go about choosing the right garden center for your garden? Read on to find out!

Garden Centers Attached to Stores

It seems that just about every big box, hardware and grocery store now has a section dedicated to gardens. Quite often their plants and other garden items are inexpensive. However, be aware that you usually get what you pay for. If you are just looking for some color to brighten up a patio pot or border, you’ll probably find what you need here. 

If you buy plants from centers such as these, make sure that the plants you choose look fresh and healthy and that they appear to be well-cared for. Many times, assistants are too busy to maintain the plants regularly and this can lead to wilting or diseased plants that will not last long once transplanted. They may also be staffed by regular store workers who don’t have any specialist gardening knowledge. 

Independent Garden Centers

When you choose to shop in an independent garden center you are much more likely to find that they are staffed by experienced gardeners who know about plants, vegetables and trees and who know what works where and what doesn’t. They’ll be able to give you advice on how to choose plants for your soil type and garden orientation and tell you where to plant particular shrubs, flowers and vegetables to give them the best chance of reaching their potential. While you may find that prices are a little more expensive than those at box store centers, you’ll get more in return as you’re paying for their expertise. You’re also likely to get better quality plants, full-grown specimens and some more exotic examples of plant life and vegetation. 

Depending on your location, your local independent garden center will be able to provide you with native plants and trees that will work perfectly in your garden. They’ll also offer everything you need to ensure that your new purchases flourish and that they are protected throughout the more severe weather, from soil and fertilizers through to hoses and cold weather protection. Many garden centers will also carry a range of garden furniture and accessories so that you can enjoy your garden for as long as possible throughout the year. 

Specialist Centers or Big Box Stores?

Garden centers attached to stores can offer the novice gardener a great choice of plants and garden furniture at very competitive prices so can be invaluable for anyone who just wants to create an attractive outdoor space. However, if you are serious about gardening and want to create a cohesive garden, it’s probably best to use specialist centers who can offer you a wider selection of plants together with expert advice. 

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