How to Save Money in the Garden: Choose the Right Plant Type
Gardening is a fun and relaxing hobby. It helps you enjoy nature, grow your own food, and make your home look beautiful. But sometimes, gardening can get expensive. You may spend a lot of money on plants, soil, tools, and more.
One of the easiest ways to save money in your garden is by choosing the right type of plant. Some plants cost more than others. Some grow faster or stronger. If you know what type of plant is best for your garden and your budget, you can enjoy gardening without spending too much.
In this blog post, you will learn how to choose the right plant type to save money. Let’s get started!
Why Plant Type Matters for Your Budget
There are many types of plants you can buy for your garden. Each type has a different price. Some are cheap. Some are expensive. Some need more care. Others grow on their own easily.
Here are the most common plant types:
Seeds – These are the cheapest. But they take time and care to grow.
Plugs or Starter Plants – These are small plants that are already started. They are not too expensive and grow faster than seeds.
Bare Root Plants – These are plants without soil. They are cheaper than potted plants.
Potted Plants – These are fully grown plants in pots. They are the most expensive.
If you choose the right plant type, you can save a lot of money. For example, you might buy 5 bare root plants for the same price as one potted plant. That’s a big saving!
Bare Root vs Potted Plants – What’s the Difference?
Let’s talk more about bare roots and potted plants. These two types are very common in gardening. But they are very different in price and how they grow.
What is a Bare Root Plant?
A bare root plant comes without soil. It is dug up when it is sleeping (dormant) in the cold season. The roots are wrapped in something moist like paper or sawdust so they don’t dry out. You plant them directly in the ground.
What is a Potted Plant?
A potted plant comes with soil in a container or pot. It is already growing and ready to go in your garden.
Which One is Cheaper?
Bare root plants are usually much cheaper than potted plants. For example:
A potted rose might cost $15.
A bare root rose might cost $5.
You can get three times more plants if you choose bare root!
Shipping Costs
If you order plants online, bare root plants are lighter and cheaper to ship. Potted plants are heavy because of the soil and pot. This means you pay more for delivery.
Time and Care
Bare root plants need to be planted quickly, usually in early spring or late fall.
Potted plants can be planted any time during the growing season.
If you like to plan ahead, bare root is a great choice. If you want quick results, you might choose potted plants.
Growth and Health
Some people think potted plants are better. But that’s not always true! Bare root plants often grow just as well, and sometimes even faster, because they adapt better to your garden soil.
Final Decision:
Bare root plants are a great way to save money and grow a strong, healthy garden. They are cheaper, lighter, and grow very well. Just make sure to plant them at the right time!
Other Budget-Friendly Plant Options
Besides bare root plants, there are other plant types that help you save money:
Seeds
Seeds are the cheapest option. You can buy a packet for just a few dollars and grow many plants. They are great for vegetables, herbs, and flowers. But they take time and care.
Plugs or Starter Plants
These are small plants that are already started from seeds. They are not too expensive and are easier to grow than seeds. Good for new gardeners.
Dividing Plants
You can divide your perennial plants (plants that come back every year) and get more plants for free. Ask friends or neighbors if they have plants to share.
Taking Cuttings
You can also grow new plants from cuttings. This means cutting a piece of a plant and growing it in water or soil. It’s free and fun!
When to Spend More – And When to Save
Sometimes, it’s okay to spend more money on a plant. Here’s when:
You want a special plant that is hard to find.
You want your garden to look full right away.
You missed the bare root season and need a quick fix.
But many times, you can save money by buying bare root, seeds, or plugs.
If you have patience, cheap plants can grow into big, beautiful plants in a few months. In the long run, you will save money and still have a lovely garden.
Practical Tips to Stretch Your Gardening Budget
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have a beautiful garden. With a few smart ideas, you can save more and still enjoy gardening. Here are some easy ways to keep your costs low:
Buy plants at the end of the season. Many garden centers and shops offer big discounts when the planting season is ending. You can get good plants for a lower price.
Join a plant swap. Trade plants, seeds, or cuttings with friends, neighbors, or local gardening groups. It’s free and fun!
Buy in bulk. Team up with friends or neighbors and buy together. You can save money on plants and shipping costs.
Take care of your soil. Healthy soil means your plants grow better and live longer. This saves you money in the long run.
Use compost. Make your own plant food using fruit peels, veggie scraps, and garden waste.
Collect rainwater. Use a bucket or water barrel to catch rain. It’s free water for your garden.
Grow from kitchen scraps. Regrow things like green onions, lettuce, basil, and even potatoes from scraps you usually throw away.
Small steps like these can make a big difference for your garden—and your wallet!
Need Help Choosing the Right Plants? Call Aspen Garden Design
Choosing the right plant type can be tricky, especially if you’re new to gardening or want to save money. That’s where Aspen Garden Design comes in. As experienced garden designers in Nottingham, we can help you make smart choices for your garden that fit your space, style, and budget. Whether you're thinking about using bare root plants, planting from seed, or creating a full garden makeover, our friendly team offers expert advice and personalized garden plans.
Aspen Garden Design understands local soil and weather, so we know exactly what works best in your area. We can help you avoid costly mistakes and still grow a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that lasts.
If you want to enjoy gardening without the stress, let the professionals help.
Contact Aspen Garden Design today – your trusted Nottingham garden designers for affordable, beautiful outdoor spaces that grow with you.
Conclusion
Gardening doesn’t have to be expensive. You can grow a beautiful, healthy garden and save money at the same time. The trick is to choose the right type of plant.
Bare root plants are a great way to cut costs and still enjoy a lush garden. They are cheaper, easy to grow, and work well for many types of plants like roses, trees, and berries.
Seeds, plugs, and plant cuttings are also smart choices for budget gardening.
Try a mix of these plant types in your garden. With a little time and planning and the help of professionals, your garden will grow – and your wallet will thank you!
