Tips & Advice
What types of services do plant nurseries provide?
The primary service of nurseries is production and/or sale of plants, trees, and related products. Some nurseries provide delivery and installation of plants and trees. Nurseries can also provide irrigation materials, service and irrigation management, landscape design and maintenance, lawn care, and tree service and maintenance.
Do plant nurseries offer guarantees?
While there are many nurseries that provide various product guarantees (usually with limitations), each establishment has its own set of rules and policies. Ask questions and do your research before buying.
Are there benefits to purchasing plants from a nursery?
Nurseries are able to nurture a plant from seedling to mature plant with skill, potentially increasing its longevity and health. All you have to do is maintain it. Nurseries have the resources and personnel to handle a wide variety of plant life, which creates a more diverse selection for the consumer, and can help guide you in growing your own green thumb.
How are indoor and outdoor plants different?
Besides the obvious geographical difference, the main thing separating indoor from outdoor plants is their temperature tolerance. Some require cooler temperatures and shade; others need more direct sunlight and warmth; some are flexible and able to thrive in either environment, provided the temperature differences are not extreme.
What are the best plants for busy people?
The best plants for low-maintenance care include ficus, spider plant, Mother In Law’s Tongue, cacti or cactus, Peace Lily, Touch-Me-Not, ivy, succulents, and Kalanchoe. Each of these plants requires minimal watering and attention (but still might like you to talk to them).
What is a deciduous tree or shrub?
Deciduous trees shed their leaves seasonally. Deciduous plants shed other parts, such as petals or fruits, upon maturation.
How often should fruit trees be watered?
The two main causes of fruit tree failure are over-watering and under-watering. As a rule of thumb, fruit trees should only be watered when the soil is on the verge of becoming dry. For young trees that are still growing it’s important to pay close attention as rapid growth uses more water. Be aware of soil condition and of course, local temperatures and precipitation.
What is a Plant Hardiness Zone?
Many gardeners and farmers use Plant Hardiness Zone maps to determine which plants thrive best in specific locations. They are based on average minimum winter temperature and divided into 10-degree geographic Fahrenheit zones.
How often should fruit trees be pruned?
Pruning frequency depends on the type of fruit-bearing tree. Different kinds require different maintenance. For many mature fruit-bearing trees, annual pruning is recommended, preferably in winter when the tree is dormant. Pruning the tree is an essential step in increasing the fruit-bearing capability of some trees, while it has no bearing on others. Consult a nursery or research the types of trees you have for specific pruning needs and techniques.
When is the best time of year to plant fruit trees?
In warmer climates, it’s perfectly acceptable to plant trees into late fall. In some cases, planting season can be nearly year-round. For more moderate climates, most recommend planting in the spring when the environment and temperatures are most amenable for plant growth.