Dream Gardens & Landscapes

Tips for Choosing Healthy Plants

When you have found the right plant, give it a quick once-over to make sure it is healthy. Remember: You're paying not only for what's above the soil, but also for a sturdy root system.

Excerpted from Simple Steps: Containers for Patios
Filed under: Plants, Container Gardening, Gardening

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General Tips

As well as looking for plants with strong healthy growth, plenty of flower buds, and a thriving root system, make sure that they have a full spread of top-growth. Many plants have a "front" and "back" because nursery staff don't have time to keep turning them to the sun, and the growth may be lopsided. Avoid plants that have wilting or discolored foliage, as well as those with weeds growing out of the soil.