Taking The High Road

Cutting Gardening Costs

When shopping for plants, look for those that are in bad shape, but not dead. Ask the manager of the store what kind of a deal he or she might give you if you were to take them off his or her hands. Oftentimes, the store no longer wants to deal with plants in this condition. You may be surprised - and it doesn't cost anything to ask!

Know other gardeners in your area? Why not ask for clippings or starter plants? Many gardening enthusiasts are happy to share! They may even give you helpful information on how to care for your new plants.

Save your seeds! At the end of the season, store your seeds in a brown paper bag or envelope and keep them in the garage (if unheated) or freezer. The seeds will go "dormant" as they would naturally, and will be ready for spring planting.

Buy seeds from the gardening store at the end of the season. Most seeds are still good for a few years after their expiration date.

Got any other ideas to share? Feel free to contribute your ideas!