5 Tips for Saving Money in Your Garden

Between the tools, bulbs, mulch and other supplies, gardening can be an expensive hobby. Check out these money-saving tips to help add green to your garden while keeping some in your wallet.

Photo credit: Doug Wheller

Consider Your Climate

When looking at which plants or flowers you want to grow, it is vital to factor in your climate. Buying a plant that doesn’t do well in hot, humid conditions is a waste of money if you live in the southeast

Choose Pest-Resistant Bulbs

Are you plants being scavenged by critters in your backyard? It might be smart to buy pest-resistant bulbs next time. “Ruby Giants” (Crocus tommasinianus) are a great example of a resistant plant; squirrels won’t touch them!

Replicating Bulbs

Looking to save a little time and money? Self-replicating bulbs are a great solution. Some bulbs, like tulips, get weaker year after year, whereas others get stronger by replicating themselves. For example, if you add some daffodils to your garden and a few years down the road you’re likely to have more growing than you originally planted.

Divide and Conquer

Daylilies, bearded irises, yarrow and ornamental grasses are all plants that need to be divided every few years. Dividing these plants serves to reinvigorate them and reduce overcrowding. An added benefit is that it provides new plants for your garden and an easy gift for your gardening friends.

Cut Your Plants

Using cuttings from your plants can save you from ever having to buy more.  Take the plant cutting, pot it up and store it inside during the winter and come spring you’ll have something to plant right away.  Just be sure to carefully wash clean the cuttings and inspect for insects.