Economic uncertainty often has people looking for ways to tighten the belt and save money. There are times though, when skimping in the landscape can cost more in the long run. Here are some money saving tips to help you:
*Shop around before you buy. Prices can vary greatly from one retailer to the next, and ask about possible volume discounts if you're planning to buy a lot of plants.
*Always check plants for insects, diseases and possible root problems before you buy.
*Avoid impulse purchases. Have a good idea of what you want and need before you visit the garden center or nursery. You really can resist those blooming camellia and Daphne plants in January if you try.
*Don't overbuy in size or number. Do you really need to buy a 30 gallon plant? Consider the plant's mature size and base your quantity on that. Consider the digging you'll have to do for such a big rootball, too.
*Beware of miracle plants and miracle potions. Avoid catalogs that don't list botanical names. Also, be suspicious of deals that seem too good to be true.
* Starting your own plants from seed can save you money, but if you only want a few of a common variety of tomato plants, is it worth buying a package of seeds, starter mix, flats, etc?
* Buy good quality tools; they will last and save you money in the long run. Use tools for their intended use. Shovels are not intended to double as pry bars for boulders.
* Buy quality seed and check dates on packages. Seeds lose viability over time or when they are not stored properly.
*Get together with neighbors and buy materials like soil amendments and mulches in bulk.
*Use a newspaper layer under mulch to cut down on weeds in annual beds.
* Use timing and a soil test to avoid wasting fertilizer and lime.
Billy Skaggs Agricultural Agent Hall County Extension Coordinator 734 East Crescent Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 Phone:(770)531-6988 Fax: (770)531-3994 Email: [email protected]
Monday
August 4th, 2025
7:50PM
