We
have learned along the way that some perennials do well in one size pot while another
variety may need a bigger or deeper pot to provide a healthy root system and that some
perennials just will not tolerate pots at all. In order to grow the healthiest and
hardiest perennials we have to depend on three separate methods of production. We do
not sell seedlings. Our plants are on average 18 - 24 months old. If you are
comparing prices please compare apples to apples, as many retailers sell perennials in
bedding plant packs that are only a few months old.
Plant sizes are clearly marked on our web
site
Pot Sizes:
4" nursery pot - this is the size pot that nearly all our potted
plants are grown in.
3.5" bullet transplant - this pot is tapered and shaped some what like a
bullet. We use this particular pot to control the size of the plants root system while
growing in our cold frames. Please note that early in the year many of our potted
plants may be shipped with little to no visible top growth. Plant these just as you
would any other potted plant and as the weather warms the plant will immediately put out
new growth.
Field Grown Bare Root Divisions:
Some perennials just can not stand to be in pots. These varieties are grown in
the field and dug up in the fall. We prune back all growth and wash the soil off the
root system. The roots are then placed in cold storage until time of shipment. Bare
root plants will often surprise the new perennial gardener. What appears to be a
lifeless tangle of roots will spring to life within days of being planted.
Plant Ages:
As with sizes our perennials are also different ages. Bare root plants are
two year old divisions. Potted plants if grown from seed are around 8-14 months old.
Plants propagated from cuttings are between 8 -12 months old. All plants have
been allowed to go through a winter period and have experienced the cold winters here in
the Appalachian Mountains. This ensures that the plant will flower the first year
and promotes hardiness.
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