Out of the Box
Have you ever wondered about the plants you get from mail order nurseries? How are they grown, packed and shipped? And can I buy a plant, now, in summer? I often see a plant blooming during the growing season, and although I think I should write its name down to include with an order for spring (and often do), I want it right away. This plant lust most often happens when I see a plant that I know would look perfect growing with a few others – begging for the perfect companion. You’ll find answers on this week’s show.
Not all mail order companies ship now, but Renee Jaeger, horticulturist for Song Sparrow Farm and Nursery tells us that the soft new growth of spring plant tissue has hardened by summer. The mature growth helps plants tolerate being in a box, even in the heat, for a couple of days. Her nursery ships early in the week, so customers get their order before the weekend. Many people buy plants right through the growing season, and the success rate is very high. (International orders are accepted, and sent when plants are dormant in early spring and fall.)
We also talk about what to do when you get a plant in summer, and I describe methods and tips for the planting.
ABOVE: Song Sparrow nursery plants ready to be packed for shipping nationally from spring to fall (top). A tree peony and sample boxes (below).
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