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Quality of plug plants

DrMacDrMac Posts: 23
I won't name names as I appreciate the problems firms face with heating costs, but ....
As in previous years I have purchased plug plants from the smallest to the largest and generally found them sturdy plants. This year, from the same companies, I have got the impression that they are being shifted more quickly that usual. They are that little bit smaller and more tender looking.
Is it my imagination, memory or bad luck? I can understand as I said in my first sentence, heating costs need to be managed. One way is to shift plants a few days quicker than usual. 
Costs and prices have gone up, understandably, but I hope I am wrong and quality is not going down as a result.  
Have others noticed similar changes or am I barking up the wrong plug plants.

Posts

  • bcpathomebcpathome Posts: 1,313
    I agree I have found them * underdone* when I’ve received them . I too was disappointed.
  • I think I got all of mine from Sarah Raven this year and they've all been good so far.
  • msqingxiaomsqingxiao Posts: 482
    This is the pack of five 5cm penstemon module plants I ordered from JParkers. Two of them are not showing any signs of life on arrival, but was advised by customer service to pot them up and see what happens in 2-3 weeks....


  • DrMacDrMac Posts: 23
    I don't think that comment is acceptable. A year old perennial in a pot could well look like that and be OK but not a freshly rooted cutting or seedling. Claim your cost back.
  • LynLyn Posts: 23,190
    The problem with Parker’s plugs is that they’ve been growing on in those modules since last year,  they’ll probably be fine, but you have to completely untangle the roots or they won’t grow on when you repot them,  the 2 not showing any growth will probably be ok if you pot them on correctly,  my cuttings from last year are only just showing tiny shoots above the compost.
    They're cheap but need care.  Once potted up with roots unravelled they’ll romp away.

    Gardening on the wild, windy west side of Dartmoor. 

  • Jenny_AsterJenny_Aster Posts: 945
    Believe they come in different sizes or stages, eg



    https://www.yougarden.com/blog/plug-plants-size-guide-bedding-plants/
    Trying to be the person my dog thinks I am! 

    Cambridgeshire/Norfolk border.
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