Thompson & Morgan Nurserymans Choice Perennial Mix Plug Plant 36 Pack with 5 Seed
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This Nurseryman's Choice Perennial Mix is designed for gardeners looking to create a beautiful, low-maintenance border garden that blooms year after year. It offers a cost-effective way to establish a diverse planting with a mix of popular perennial plug plants and annual seeds, ensuring continuous color. A potential caveat is that the specific varieties of plug plants and seeds are a 'lucky dip' selection, meaning some surprise is involved.
All features
| Model Part Number | Nurserymans Choice Perennial Mix Plug Plant 36 Pack with 5 Seed |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What does 'Nurseryman's Choice' mean for the seeds and plants?
'Nurseryman's Choice' indicates that the specific varieties included are a selection chosen by the nursery, offering a surprise element. You will receive a good mix of popular and reliable types, but the exact species are not pre-determined.
How many different types of perennials can I expect?
You will receive at least six different varieties of plug plants from a selection that includes popular types like lavender, aquilegia, delphinium, echinacea, geum, and achillea, among others.
Can I plant these in containers?
While primarily designed for borders, some of the plug plants may be suitable for larger containers if they have adequate drainage and are kept well-watered. The annual seeds can certainly be used to fill gaps in container displays.
When is the best time to plant this mix?
Plug plants should be planted once the risk of frost has passed, typically from spring onwards. The seeds can be sown according to their specific needs, often from spring through to early summer.
Do I need to do anything special over winter?
For the perennials, it is recommended to mulch the soil around the base of the plants with well-rotted manure or compost in autumn. This helps to protect the roots from frost and enriches the soil.
How large will the plants get?
The final size of the plants will vary depending on the specific varieties included and the growing conditions. The images on the packaging are representative of mature plants, which can take a season or two to reach their full potential.
Are these plants suitable for attracting pollinators?
Yes, many of the listed perennial varieties like lavender, echinacea, and aquilegia are known to be attractive to bees and other pollinators. The annual seeds may also include varieties that benefit pollinators.
Troubleshooting
Plug plants are wilting upon arrival.
This can be due to stress during transit. Rehydrate them by placing the plugs in a shallow tray of water for about 15-20 minutes until the soil plug is moist. Then, plant them as soon as possible and water them in well.
Plants are not growing or blooming.
Ensure plants are receiving adequate light (sun or semi-shade as appropriate) and water. Check if the soil is fertile; if not, consider a light feed in spring. Extreme weather conditions can also temporarily affect growth.
Perennials are not returning in the second year.
Ensure they were planted in suitable conditions (well-drained, fertile soil) and protected with mulch in autumn. Severe winters or unusually wet conditions can sometimes impact overwintering.
Seeds are not germinating.
Verify that seeds were sown at the correct depth and that the soil has been kept consistently moist. Some seeds require specific temperature conditions for germination; check general sowing advice for the type of annual if known.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a cost-effective way to create a mature-looking border.
- Offers a mix of long-lasting perennials and seasonal annuals for continuous blooms.
- Suitable for a variety of garden locations (sun to semi-shade).
- Encourages biodiversity with a range of plant types.
- Relatively low maintenance once established.
Cons
- Specific perennial and seed varieties are not guaranteed and are a 'lucky dip'.
- Images shown are for guidance only; actual plants may vary in size and appearance seasonally.
- Requires initial soil preparation with compost or fertilizer for best results.
- Decorative pots are not included.
- Some plants may lose leaves in colder months.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
- Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of approximately 20cm.
- Incorporate compost or a general fertilizer into the topsoil and mix thoroughly.
- Carefully remove plug plants from their trays, handling them by the soil plug.
- Plant the plugs into the prepared soil, ensuring the top of the soil plug is level with the garden soil.
- Sow seed packets according to their individual instructions, usually covering lightly with soil.
Compatibility:
- Light: Thrives in full sun to semi-shade.
- Soil: Prefers moist, fertile soil. Avoid waterlogged areas.
Care:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the initial establishment period. Once established, watering can be reduced, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely, especially during dry spells.
- Feeding: While initial soil preparation with fertilizer is recommended, additional feeding may not be necessary if the soil is rich. If growth appears weak, a light application of a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring can be beneficial.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of well-rotted manure or compost in autumn to protect the plants over winter and enrich the soil for the following season.