But that may be changing. David Levy, owner of Willow Oaks Flower Farm in Brownsville, is working on getting his own plant labels. In general, independent nurseries and garden centers are more likely to have locally grown plants. Shop early and often and at several places to get the best selections. Shop during the week if you need help in making your selections.
Retailers are too busy on weekends to give much personalized attention.
Avoid buying plants that have gotten leggy in their pots. Be more impressed with plants that have many buds rather than blooms. Pinch off the blooms before planting. If you do, the plant will be able to put its energy into establishing roots and foliage, not flowers. A healthy root system will produce flowers all summer.