John's Green Thumb WVU Extension Agent John Marra's Gardening Tips Choosing healthy flowering plants and shrubs this spring will help you to have more flowers later this summer. Bedding plants are now available at greenhouses and garden centers. The first priority in choosing one of these, however, should be vigorous, healthy plants. They have the best chances of success once you get them in your garden. Look for healthy green leaves.
Leaves are the power generators that supply energy for growth.
Plants with weak leaves cannot get off to a good start in your garden. Yellow or brown leaves also can indicate disease. Next, look for strong stems. Healthy plants are branches, with more than one shoot per stem. Finally, choose plants that are not in bloom.