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We have very little landscaping to speak of, and I am getting anxious to start planting this spring. What are some of the best places to buy compost, perennials, shrubs, and trees? I'm looking for alternatives to big box stores that are going to have a wide selection as well as knowledgable staff who can answer my questions about gardening in this area. I'm in Durham, so close would be great, but am willing to make a drive for great plants.
We drive down to the Garden Supply Company on Old Apex RD in Cary. They are great at answering questions and making suggestions. In addition to great customer service, they are usually cheaper than Lowes/Home Depot. And, their products are superior to the "big boxes."
We like the Family Garden Center on hwy 55 in Cary/Apex (not sure which town it falls in). They have another one over off 54 in Raleigh not too terribly far from the farmer's market, which is another good option.
This year we have already started our peas from seed and got one of those little nursery boxes to try starting peppers, watermelon, and some 4 o'clocks from seed. It's fun for the kids to watch them grow. We'll see how it goes, and also plan to find some perennials for the front yard that are already growing.
I can't wait to be out there playing in the dirt again!
Southern States, it's an agricultural co-op, has a vast selection, good prices, and knowledgeable people. They are also friendly. I also do a fair sized veggie garden, their seeds have a very high germination percentage, and their potted plants survive well. The only times I have ever had one die was when the Deer got to it. I've already started some of my veggies, Broccoli, Cauliflower, and head cabbage, along with red onions and the big Texas Sweet onions. All of these things can take a frost. I made a mistake about 5 years ago and planted squash too early, they came up about 4 inches high, it frosted, I had to replant. I'd do my first planting on Carrots and Spinach this afternoon. Plant the low to the ground stuff on the south side of the garden and get progressively taller as it heads north. Oh yeah, in about 2 more weeks, put out your hummingbird feeders, try to keep the feeders out of direct sunlight, the sugar water mix goes sour faster in direct sun. It is easier and cheaper to mix your own. I use a one part sugar to three parts water and food coloring is not good for the hummers. During the peak of summer we will go thru over a quart of mix in a day. If properly fed, they will return to within 100 yds of where they nested last year. Sometimes their language is not fit for childrens ears.
Last edited by Dusty Rhodes; 03-13-2010 at 09:17 AM..
Coley Bunch Nursery on Old Hwy 75 north of Durham between Butner and Stem. They were nice, helpful and knowledgeable last year as it was my first voray into container gardening for my porch.
Oh yeah, in about 2 more weeks, put out your hummingbird feeders, try to keep the feeders out of direct sunlight, the sugar water mix goes sour faster in direct sun. It is easier and cheaper to mix your own. I use a one part sugar to three parts water and food coloring is not good for the hummers. During the peak of summer we will go thru over a quart of mix in a day. If properly fed, they will return to within 100 yds of where they nested last year. Sometimes their language is not fit for childrens ears.
LOL I am sure my older one will like it Thanks for the tips.
I have a few humming feeders do they need to be placed a few feet apart ? I have read that the humming birds are territorial.Hopefully a few birds will visit us this year since the boys are all excited to put the feeders out in the garden next week.
Go to Angier and hit (1) Broadwells, (2) Old Stage Nursery, and (3) Tarheel Nursery, all within a stone's throw of each other. Broadwells is huge - acres and acres. Plants cost a few bucks each - you could save 75% - 90% of what you'd pay at retail. Old Stage is a bit smaller, but with more variety. Prices are a bit higher, but still well below retail. At both you load your car up and then pay the man at the front by check. Tarheel is the smallest of the 3 - most stuff is in greenhouses. Not quite as inexpensive, but has more "specialty" plants.
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Thanks for the tips.
