Using plugs is an economical way to put in a garden at any scale. Plugs are the cheapest way to purchas plants, allowing you to select a broader variety of species, creating more beauty over the season. Designers love plugs for this reason. The more plants you can put in your garden or meadowscape, the less mulch and weed pressure you have to deal with. This gives you more beauty and habitat for your buck. Plugs are younger plants that can withstand transplant easier, and rebound faster than older plants.
But wait: aren't plugs tiny? Won't I have to wait longer to see them bloom? Actually, no- and no, at least not always. Plugs will always start smaller than gallon sized plants, but they catch up quick and can even bloom in the first season. Although, the goal should be well sited plants that put on lots of roots and shoots in the first season. By the second season, you won't be able to tell much difference between a plant that went in as a plug or a gallon.
With few exceptions, our plants are grown from local ecotype seed, making our plugs perfect for habitat restoration projects. Our plugs can be combined to create plant communities that will thrive in any soil, sun or moisture conditions. We are happy to talk with you about the advantages of using plugs, and help you find the right plants for your place.
Monarda fisutlosa in their second year, planted the previous fall as plugs.
Eupatorium perfoliatum plugs, potted into 3''x 5'' pots mid summer bloom profusely the first year.
Liatris novae-angliae plugs, blooming their second summer.