HOW TO BAG A BARGAIN 5 Tool up properly
Garden News writer Karen Murphy has seven ways to get the most for your money when buying for the garden this spring!
1 Check the forecast
One sunny day doesn’t mean spring has arrived, so avoid wasting money on tender plants that may succumb to late frosts.
2 Don’t fall for gimmicks
Try not to impulse buy; wellthought out, long-term choices will save money in the long run. If you're browsing online or via seed catalogues it's easy to get carried away with special offers – but they're a waste of money if the plants aren't right for your garden!
3 Seek advice
If you can't ask advice in your local garden centre Yours’ sister magazine Garden News is packed with sensible advice, inspiration written by knowledgeable staff. They also have great weekly deals and special offers too. To order a copy (or subscribe) call 01858 438884 or visit greatmagazines.co.uk
4 Size does matter
Little mini plugs of annuals are the best value, but choose bigger perennial plug plants and opt for medium-sized shrubs in containers. Too large a shrub and it’ll likely be congested, pot bound and difficult to establish. Too small and it may take too long to get going.
Spending a little more to invest in well-made, robust tools will save you money in the long run! Buy the best you can afford now.
6 Plants on the cheap
Raising your own plants from seed is nearly always cheapest. Why not set up a gardening club with your neighbours and you could cut the cost by swapping seeds or seedlings?
7 Soil’s the star
Long-term plant health starts with soil. Use compost, manure and leaf mould to improve your plot now. Your mantra should be ‘right plant, right place’ so only choose plants that you know will thrive in your garden. You’ll use less water, fewer fertilisers or special soil improvers to meet the needs of mismatched diva plants.