By Margaret Pratt Hagen
University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension
Today's multi-billion-dollar mail order industry had its genesis when the first trade catalog was printed in Venice, Italy in 1498. It listed 15 different texts for sale. In America, it was the entrepreneurial Benjamin Franklin who published the first American catalog, also dealing with textbooks. Soon to follow were seed and nursery catalogs. Now, more than 6,500 catalogs are available to American consumers.
January and February are the prime months for gardening by mail. The new catalogs are out, and so are the big ads in the Sunday papers and the popular press. Shopping by mail can be pleasant and easy, but it can also have its disappointments.
Pictures can say much more than words, particularly in their depiction of the multi-hues of garden flowers. But bear in mind that the photograph probably doesn't reflect the true color, and can easily exaggerate size or omit important details.
Then there are the ads that stretch the truth. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Remember that, within reason, you usually get what you pay for. As with most other commodities, plant prices tend to reflect quality.
The Latin proverb "Caveat emptor" (let the buyer beware) provides advice as sound today as it was in the ancient Roman marketplace. Here are some reminders:
- Avoid offers that appear too good to be true, and be ready to hold the company to its promise.
- Ask the supplier to be more specific where the offer is questionable. A money-back guarantee should be clearly stated and if the company doesn't live up to the guarantee, don't be afraid to push them on it.
- Try not to buy impulsively before you've had a chance to compare features, quality and price.
- Choose catalog companies with a reputation for quality products and reliable service. Be wary of sellers who use Post Office Box addresses and who don't provide you with a number to call.
- Place mail orders early.
- Carefully read all instructions on the blank order form and fill it out in its entirety. There should be no hidden shipping and handling charges. Knowing in advance about collect charges can save you disagreeable surprises when your plants arrive. Errors or omissions in the order form will frequently cause delays and so will insufficient payments.
- Try to avoid sending cash through the mail, even on small orders. Instead, pay by check or money order, through a credit card or other charge system. It may take an extra two weeks before shipment if you send a personal check. Checks must clear the bank first.
- If you order by phone, get the order number and name of the person with whom you are dealing. Also, record the time and date of your call.
- Be sure to keep a record of your order and retain the catalog or other offerings until you get the merchandise.
- Be sure you are clear on delivery time and obligations. Don't order plants in February or March that you can't plant in the field until April at the earliest. Many plants can only be dug at ceratin periods of the year; similarly there are time requirements to observe in planting. Reputable mail order nurseries won't ship at inappropriate times.
- Examine the material carefully when it arrives. If it's a mechanical item, make sure it works properly and you're satisfied. Otherwise, return the item immediately for an exchange or a refund. When plant materials arrive in bad condition, notify the shipper promptly, describing the condition of the material as accurately as you can.
- Most reliable mail order firms will promptly replace material that has arrived in poor condition, but of course, you shouldn't tax the limits of either time or credibility. If you must return any item, insure the parcel so you have a receipt as proof.
)
