Welcome to May fellow mediocre gardeners! As we finally find ourselves in the best part of the growing season for Glenside, Willow Grove, Jenkintown, Elkins Park and beyond, let’s look at something that can make your head spin: choosing plants at the garden center. When you walk into Primex or whatever garden center is your favorite destination, it’s like stepping into a candy store—but instead of sweets, you’re faced with an array of plants to pick from. Do you go for the tried-and-true favorites or take a chance on something exotic? Annuals or perennials? Native or non-native? The options can feel endless and honestly, a little overwhelming.
The Best Approach: Stop and Take a Deep Breath
To keep the excitement from turning into anxiety, here’s a step-by-step approach to tackle that garden center visit like a pro:
1. Know Your Space
Before you head out, take a moment to think about which part of your garden you want to focus on for this visit. Remember you can make as many visits as you wish, if you’re like me, this won’t be the last time you’re in a plant store in 2025. How much sun does that area get? What’s the soil like? Are you looking for large trees, small trees, flowers, vegetables, or a mix? We all have limited budgets and car space so the clearer you are on what you need for this trip, and where it will go helps you to focus your selection.
2. Do Your Homework
Spend a little time looking up what plants thrive in our region, Zone 7A. This article from our local Montgomery County Master Gardener group might be a good starting point or this landscaping with native plants handout is one of my favorite cheat sheets to limit my options. I created a list of the native plants that I put in my garden and you can see that list here. Knowing which plants are best suited for your space will narrow down your options and boost your confidence. But most importantly what plants do you want to see in your garden when you look out your window?
3. Create a Wish List
Based on your research, write down a few plants you’re excited about and try to stick to it. This way, when you hit the garden center, you won’t feel as overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices. Your list can also help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys that might end up being more trouble than they’re worth. Yeah, I’m looking at you Dahlia’s, even though they’re so beautiful, do you want to dig them up at the end of the growing season every year?
4. Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to chat with the garden center staff. They’re often a treasure trove of information and can guide you toward plants that suit your needs. If you’re unsure about care requirements or companion planting, what plants work well together, ask away!
5. Start Small
If you’re new to gardening or trying a different type of plant, consider starting with just a few varieties. You can always expand later as you gain experience and confidence.
6. Enjoy the Process
Lastly, remember that gardening is all about the journey. Every plant you choose (or don’t choose) is a step toward growing your gardening skills. As you know it’s okay to make mistakes—just like our new friend Mia Farrago who says her garden looks like a perpetual “before” photo and that the after photos are all in her head. Thanks for your comedy and honesty Mia and the reminder that to enjoy your garden doesn’t mean it has to be perfect. If you want to share pictures or ideas from your garden like Mia, just drop me an email dearmediocregardener@gmail.com. I can’t wait to hear from you! In the meantime, happy shopping neighbor.
For each installment of Glenside Local’s “The Mediocre Gardener” column, you can click here.
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