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What is the deal with mail order plant websites?

daddyfandangoahoNgQGzdaddyfandangoahoNgQGz Posts: 2
in Problem solving

Advice: Hi there i am planning on planting a new border in my garden. I have worked out the plants I want which are as follows:

Japanese quince 
Lavender 
Erigeron 
Senecio “angel wings” 
Caryopteris 
Sedum 
Perennial cornflower 
Hellebores 
Fern 
Ox eye daisy 

I realise I may need to grow some myself from seed (cornflower, ox eye daisy) but am looking at online plant sellers for the rest. I think I need to get the Japanese quince in ASAP (I am in Northern Yorkshire) am I right? My main question is when should I be ordering these plants, as Im very confused. It seems I can order the majority of the above now, but surely this is too early for most stuff? Most sites seem to stop taking orders in spring also so really not sure how to use these sites? Do I order the plants then have to keep them inside before planting out? I suppose the question really is, I know the plants I want but help! How do I actually procure them and plant them, and when?

Thanks in advance!

Posts

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    The best time to plant new shrubs and trees, bare root or potted, is autumn because this means their roots can take advantage of soil which is still warm (for plants) and moist.  They are then in a better position to have strong root systems by spring when they put on their growth spurt above ground and need those roots to feed the new foliage and flowers.

    When it comes to perennials, the same is true but you need to be careful about water-logged soil.
    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601
    Most sites will tell you when to plant and how to care for your plants. Some online suppliers will allow you to buy but will not deliver until appropriate. Some of your choices could be bought at local garden centres or nurseries and this will enable you to choose your plant, which is better than sending it through the post and much more fun. A little research is very enjoyable and will make you a better gardener. You will learn how to assess your garden conditions and plants that will suit them, too. There's lots of information on this site about suppliers, from the cheap and cheerful to the real plantsman.
  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,585
    I was watching Alan Titchmarsh at the weekend talking about planting bare root plants and he said it was okay to plant up until mid March as long as the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. 
    https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/plant-to-plant-bare-root/#:~:text=November to March is the,no soil around their roots.
  • OmoriOmori Posts: 1,674
    As you’re in North Yorkshire you might be interested in checking out RV Roger, which is located in Pickering http://www.rvroger.co.uk/index.php?ls=fp
  • daddyfandangoahoNgQGzdaddyfandangoahoNgQGz Posts: 2
    Just a quick note to say thank you very much for this information, which is very helpful.
  • edhelkaedhelka Posts: 2,351
    Most perennials can be bought and planted all year round if the plants are big enough (unless the ground is frozen or rock hard dry). Some times are riskier than others but it depends on the plant and your local climate and soil.
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