While it seems a little odd to procure plants by going through catalogs, this may actually be a good idea, especially for first time gardeners. While there is nothing like seeing and examining a plant at a nursery and getting first hand information of a particular plant, many of them do not stock different or unusual choices, which can be mail ordered by browsing through a catalog. A gardening catalog can present newer options even for experienced gardeners and facilitates the search for sources.

There are separate catalogs for different plants such as annuals, perennials, bulbs, vegetables, grasses, exotic plants and flowers. Catalogs give us comprehensive information on the options available regarding gardening tools, supplies and power equipment, as also decorative accessories for the garden. All this makes it simple for us to plan and maintain our garden.

Usually January and February are prime months when new catalogs come out in the market. However, you need to be careful about placing mail orders. First you need to know whether the company who is selling the plants act as mere brokers or do they grow it themselves. For the sake of accountability, it is better to go to people who grow their own stocks. Reputed catalogs also give information regarding the suitability of a plant in a particular USDA zone. If a catalog doesn't give this very important information, it is better to go to someone who does. Make sure that you can specify the shipping details so that it is convenient for you to plant them immediately. However, most mail order companies will be able to advise you on the right season to plant a particular plant. Catalogs also come with pictures so that you have a fair idea what you are going to purchase. However, in case of plants, pictures can be misleading in terms of color and size and important details also get missed out. So you need to be just a bit careful on that. Also be wary of promises and gimmicks some companies may offer.

It is also important that the company gives you some kind of guarantee. Upon arrival of a plant, examine the plant carefully. Sometimes plants may look lifeless because of the shock received due to transportation, but they will soon recover when they are planted and watered well. If it is a mechanical item, make sure it is assembled well and is in good working condition. Reputed companies replace materials if it is found in poor condition.

Catalog shopping come with their advantages and disadvantages; the advantages being its convenience, wider options and often you also get better deals than you would have got at a nursery; the main disadvantage is that you cannot see your product first hand before buying it.

If you like Gardening....These pages might also interest you:

Allium Directory, Amaryllis Directory, Begonia Directory, Crocus Directory, Daffodils Directory, Dahlia Directory, Hyacinth Directory, Iris Directory, Lily Directory, Tulip Directory

Also see:

A Love Affair With Gardening, Charming Camillias, Firescaping, Gardening for the Family, Garden Rodents, Garden Catalogs, General Gardening Tips. Gardens in the Shade, Hot Summer Cool Garden, How to Plant Leeks, Involve Your Children, Outfits for Gardening, Photograph Your Garden, Plant Care Basics, Using Leaves as Compost, What to Avoid Buying Guide, Cheap Garden Ideas, Creating Garden Berms, Garden Fragrances, Garden Lessons, Gardening for The Challenged, Gardening is Great, Gardening Math, Gardening Tools, How to Use Peat, More About Gardening, Love affair with Lilacs, Organic Gardening, Slow Down and Enjoy, Smart Plant Shopping, Tips for Beginners