Perennial Flowers: Purchasing

Perennials can be obtained from a wide variety of sources including nurseries, garden centers, and mail order companies. Buy named cultivars instead of seedlings, if possible. Plants come in a vary of container sizes and are often in bloom when offered for sale, which allows you to select the colors you want and gives a more instant look in the garden. While perennials can be transplanted in flower, this is not the best time for planting.

Plants sold in cell packs are less expensive and the roots will usually grow into the surrounding soil quicker than larger, container grown plants. Select plants that are compact and have normal color. Plants in cell packs dry out quickly; so keep them moist until they are planted.

Discount chain stores and grocery stores often sell plants in cardboard boxes, tubes, or plastic bags. They were dormant when shipped but may have started growing while on display. If purchased soon after the plants arrive at the merchant, the plants often grow satisfactorily, but seldom do well if they have dried out or have produced new thin, yellow or pale green leaves and stems. If only a small amount of new tender growth has occurred, they may grow satisfactorily but should be hardened off before planting outdoors.

Mail order companies frequently offer a wider selection of perennials than most local nurseries. While most mail order companies are reputable, a few tend to be misleading in their claims and specialize in offering small, lower-grade plants. Most companies guarantee their plants and will replace those that arrive in poor condition or fail to grow properly. Most companies ship plants bare root or in small containers. Shipping dates will vary with the location of the company; northern nurseries often ship only in the spring. When the plants arrive check to ensure that they are moist.

Consumer Horticulture | Perennials Home

Prepared by: Erv Evans, Consumer Horticulturist, NC State University