Every once in a while, I like to offer ideas on saving money while buying items I know you will purchase anyway. The hope is that if you don’t spend as much on, say, Halloween costumes, you will save more in your 401(k).
I am ever the optimist.
Along those lines, I know you are itching to spruce up your outdoor space after a long, brown winter. So, here are some ideas to save some lettuce while you are planting your herbs.
Start with a Plan
This has been super-helpful to me over the years. I make a list of the thrillers (tall spiky plans), fillers (mid-height color – often coleus and petunias), and spillers (love me some sweet potato vine) for each pot and tally up how many I will need.
This way, I don’t over buy and wind up planting a ton of tiny pots with leftover plants. Honestly, it’s still a long list, but I’ve streamlined it over the years.
Grow from Seeds Instead of Buying Mature Plants
Seeds are much cheaper than established plants. Many seeds can be started indoors or directly sown outside. That said, I know I’m too lazy and don’t love having tons of plants inside, so this is not advice I’ll be taking.
Choose Perennials and Native Plants
Perennials like daylilies, hostas, and daffodils return year after year, reducing the need for replanting. Native plants are adapted to your local climate, require less maintenance, and are often more affordable at local nurseries. My trick is to look at my neighbor’s yards (especially the more established ones) to see what’s done well for them over the years and copy their success.
Shop Local Nurseries, Plant Sales, and Swaps
Local nurseries often have plants suited to your area and may offer better prices or advice than big box stores. Community plant sales and swaps are great places to find healthy, inexpensive plants and meet fellow gardeners.
However, for those items you know you use each year and have success with, the big box stores and grocery stores could save you some good dough if they have the inventory you want.
Look for Discounted or Clearance Plants
Check discount stores, grocery outlets, and the clearance racks at garden centers for marked-down plants, bulbs, or seeds. These may need a little TLC but can be a bargain for filling in your landscape.
Research pest-resistant plants.
What’s worse than planting beautiful pots or beds and then having them shredded by Japanese beetles or snarfed up by deer? Talk about money down the drain!
Ask your nursery expert or do some online research into plants that are not tasty or even slightly toxic to the enemies of your yard.
Happy digging!
