Follow tips for spring 2021 garden shopping

Spring is nature’s time to shine: People eagerly watch for new buds, tiny green sprouts, and the early flowers like daffodils and tulips.

Planting and nurturing flowers, herbs, or vegetables is a great way to celebrate the start of the new season, especially since many homeowners are dealing with damage to their yards and gardens after the recent winter storms.

The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas offers some tips for planning, budgeting, and shopping to help you kick off the spring growing season.

• Learn about your zone. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has published a map of North America, divided into planting “zones”; you can research your zone and choose plants that work well for your area’s temperatures. Think local when it comes to plants; native species are wonderful to include in your garden or home, since they are often hardier. If you are planning on planting indoors, do some research about species that do well in a home, and consider the light in your home.

• Make a budget. Even if you keep your garden indoors, costs can add up: soil, fertilizer, pots, seeds, plants, and tools can be expensive. If you are just starting out, think small; you can always add to your garden or plant collection later, and you will feel less overwhelmed with weeding, watering, and unexpected financial costs.

• Research nurseries. Once you have your ideal plants, a plan, and a budget in mind, you can search for nurseries in your area at BBBHouston.org. You can also check the Texas Department of Agriculture for licensed nurseries at texasagriculture.gov. Make sure to visit the nursery you have in mind and pay close attention to how neatly it’s kept, how healthy the plants look, etc. Talk to the employees and ask them about the plants you are considering or ask if they have suggestions about other species.

• Look for sales. Since it is spring, it’s common for nurseries and garden centers to have a bumper crop of beautiful plants at a discount. Call or look for local ads to see if there are sales coming up soon and plan accordingly. If you go during the weekday, it is often less crowded.

• Stick to your plan. Unless a nursery professional recommends a few different plants you might consider instead, stick to your planting plan and budget. It is easy to be tempted by colorful flowers and beautiful green leaves, but you might end up dropping more money than you bargained for, with less-than-ideal results.

• Consider hiring someone. If you are not up to maintenance, but you would like a great landscaped yard for your home, there are plenty of small businesses that can plan, purchase, plant, and even care for a garden. You can get quotes, compare information, and read about landscaping businesses in your area at BBBHouston.org. You might also consider asking about landscape designers at your local nursery.

The Better Business Bureau is a nonprofit for honest business behavior. Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the BBB of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200,