Should you buy plants from a local nursery or order them online? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and hidden secrets to help you choose the right option—and grow a garden that truly flourishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a new plant enthusiast, one question eventually pops up: Where should I buy my plants?
Local garden centers offer immediate satisfaction and expert advice, while online stores bring convenience and rare finds to your doorstep. But when it comes to value, plant health, and long-term success, does one clearly beat the other?
We’ve gathered insights from gardening experts and added tips to help you make the best choice for your next garden upgrade.
🏡 Why Local Garden Centers Still Reign Supreme
There’s something special about wandering through rows of vibrant plants and picking your favorites in person. But the benefits go far beyond the feel-good experience.
1. You Get to Handpick the Healthiest Plants
Touch the leaves, check the roots, and inspect for pests—at local nurseries, you get to see what you’re buying. This hands-on experience ensures you’re bringing home healthy plants ready to thrive.
Pro tip: Choose annuals not yet in full bloom for longer flowering periods in your garden.
2. Bigger, Stronger Plants
“Local nurseries often stock more mature plants,” explains Sandra Mao, author of Vibrant Harvest. That means instant impact in your landscaping—great for shrubs, trees, and established veggies you want growing fast.
3. Expert, Local Advice
Need help figuring out what thrives in your climate? The staff at local nurseries live and breathe your region’s growing conditions. You’ll get tailored advice, planting tips, and insider recommendations for your zone.
4. Better Climate-Adapted Plants
“Local garden centers typically grow or source plants locally,” says Rhonda Kaiser, founder of Southern Home and Farm. That means plants are already acclimated to your area, making them more resilient and easier to maintain.
🌐 Why Shopping for Plants Online Is Worth Considering
Online garden shops have grown—literally. With broader selections and creative tools, they’re becoming the go-to choice for many gardeners, especially when looking for something unique.
1. Access to Rare and Exotic Varieties
Want unusual blooms or hard-to-find heirloom vegetables? Online retailers, especially niche sellers, often carry what local nurseries don’t.
You’ll find stunning, less common cultivars to make your garden stand out.
2. Shop Smarter with Filters
Online stores let you search by growing zone, light preference, garden type (like pollinator or tea gardens), or even plant color. According to horticulturist Justine Kandra, this is perfect for beginners or those with specific design goals.
3. Hardier Plants Ship Well
“Perennials, shrubs, and groundcovers are great to buy online,” says Kaiser. These plant types tend to handle shipping better and are more likely to arrive in good shape—especially from reputable sellers.
🌱 What to Look for When Buying Plants Online
Before you click “Add to Cart”, make sure the online plant store checks these boxes:
- ✅ Clear return and shipping policies
- ✅ Active customer service and social media presence
- ✅ Verified customer reviews with photos
- ✅ Specialty in gardening products only
- ✅ Plants shipped in sturdy packaging with moist soil
Bonus tip: Many top online retailers offer plant survival guarantees, which can make the investment more secure.
💲 The Real Cost: Price vs. Long-Term Value
At first glance, online prices can look cheaper—but don’t forget shipping fees, especially for heavier items like potted shrubs. In many cases, local nurseries may offer better value when you factor in plant size and health.
Kaiser adds: “Spending a bit more on high-quality plants—whether online or in-store—pays off. They establish faster, resist disease, and perform better overall.”
🌼 So… Which Is Better?
The best answer? A mix of both.
- Buy in person when you want larger plants, expert advice, or immediate gratification.
- Shop online when you’re searching for rare varieties or planning a themed garden.
By combining both options, you’ll get the best of both worlds: variety, quality, and a garden that thrives from season to season.
🛒 Ready to Grow?
Start local, then branch out online. Whether you’re planting a cozy cottage garden or a modern edible oasis, the key is knowing where to find the right plants—and how to care for them.