How to Save Money on Perennials
Gardening is a wonderful hobby that can help you relax and beautify your surroundings. However, if you're not careful, it can also be an expensive one. One of the biggest expenses in gardening is buying plants, especially perennials. Perennials are plants that come back year after year, making them a great investment for your garden. But how can you save money on these plants? Here are some tips to help you.
1. Buy from Local Nurseries
Buying perennials from local nurseries can save you a lot of money in the long run. These nurseries have plants that are already adapted to your area's climate and soil conditions. This means that they will require less water and fertilizer than plants that are shipped from other parts of the country or world.
In addition, buying from local nurseries often means that the plants are healthier and have been well cared for. This reduces the risk of disease and pests, which can be costly to treat. Finally, local nurseries often sell plants at lower prices than big-box stores because they don't have the overhead costs.
2. Buy Perennials on Sale
If you're looking to save money on perennials, one of the best ways to do so is by buying them on sale. Many nurseries and garden centers offer discounts on plants that are out of season or overstocked. Keep an eye out for sales and check back regularly. You might be surprised at the deals you can find.
Another option is to buy perennials online. Many online retailers offer discounted prices on plants, especially if you buy in bulk. Just be sure to read reviews and check the seller's reputation before making a purchase.
3. Share Plants with Friends
A great way to save money on perennials is by sharing plants with friends and neighbors. If you have a plant that has spread too much or needs to be divided, offer to share it with someone else. In return, they might have a plant that they can share with you. This not only saves you money but also helps to build community and friendships.
4. Choose Low-Maintenance Perennials
Some perennials require a lot of maintenance, such as pruning, deadheading, and staking. Choosing low-maintenance perennials can save you time and money in the long run. Look for plants that don't require a lot of water or fertilizer, and that are resistant to disease and pests. Some examples include sedums, daylilies, and coneflowers.
In addition, consider using native plants in your garden. Native plants are well-adapted to your area and require less maintenance than non-native plants. They also provide habitat for local wildlife.
5. Propagate Your Own Plants
If you have perennials that you love, try propagating them yourself. This involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them in soil or water. Once rooted, you can replant them in your garden or share them with others. This allows you to expand your garden without spending a lot of money.
Propagation works best with certain types of perennials, such as salvias, mints, and geraniums. Just be sure to research the specific plant and method of propagation before attempting it.
6. Start From Seeds
Starting perennials from seeds can be a cost-effective way to expand your garden. Seeds are less expensive than potted plants and can yield a large number of plants. However, starting from seeds requires more time and effort than buying plants from a nursery.
To start from seeds, you will need to research the specific plant and its growing requirements. You'll also need to plan ahead, as some seeds need to be started indoors months before they can be planted outside. Starting from seeds can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's not for everyone.
7. Join a Plant Swap
Plant swaps are events where gardeners come together to trade plants and gardening items. These events are a great way to get new plants for free and to meet other gardeners in your area. To find a plant swap near you, check local gardening groups or social media pages.
When attending a plant swap, be sure to bring plants or items to trade. You can also bring cash to purchase plants from other attendees. Plant swaps are a fun and social way to save money on perennials.
Perennials are a great investment for any garden. They come back year after year and can provide beautiful blooms and foliage. However, buying perennials can be expensive. By following these tips, you can save money on perennials and still enjoy all the benefits of gardening. Whether you're buying from local nurseries, propagating your own plants, or joining a plant swap, there are plenty of ways to save money on perennials. Happy gardening!
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