How to Choose Healthy Seedlings at the Garden Center
- 1). Purchase plants when it’s time to transplant them outdoors. A common error is to buy seedlings too early and have to keep them inside until the weather permits outdoor planting.
- 2). Think small. Besides being less expensive, smaller seedlings withstand the trauma of transplanting better than large ones. The reason for this is because there is less shock to the plant’s developing root system with younger specimens. It’s easy to buy larger seedlings but often a smaller one will overtake the growth rate of a larger one once planted in the garden.
- 3). Look at the general growth pattern. Some vine varities may have tall leggy stems, but most flower and vegetable seedlings should be on the stocky side with sturdy main stems and a low bushy shape. Quality nurseries often cut back their young plants to encourage a dense growth pattern.
- 4). Observe the foliage color. Seedlings that receive too little light are apt to have lighter colored leaves and a slightly transparent appearance. In addition, the main stem may be soft and unable to support the weight of the upper portion of the plant.
- 5). Choose seedlings without buds for the easiest transition to a garden or a flower bed. Budding out means the plant is expending most of its energy in preparation for a fruit or a flower. As tempting as it is to get a ‘jump start’ on the growing season, resist the urge. The seedling needs time to develop its root system in your garden before producing buds.
- 6). Learn the demographics of your growing zone before buying seedlings. It's a waste of money to purchase perennials that will not overwinter or annuals that need a warmer or cooler environment in order to bloom. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers an interactive map with information about your growing zone (see Resources).
- 7). Read the description card that accompanies the seedling before purchasing. Most growers include a small plastic tag with each plant that describes the best location for that plant and its nutritional needs.
- 8). Observe the gardening center and the condition of all the plants. If many seedlings are dropping leaves or wilting, it may indicate poor care by the gardening staff. The general rule is to purchase the healthiest seedlings from a reputable gardening center.
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