Tips For Saving Money When Gardening by Joanne Jones

The cost of gardening can really add up. Select a few plants, some pretty containers, an impressive looking statue or fountain, soil, tools and building supplies ... and before you know it, you have spent more money than you had originally planned. But gardening doesn't have to be expensive. Here are a few easy-to-follow tips that will save you money.

Obviously, the first way to save money when gardening is to buy your supplies when they are on sale. Most stores will have a sale at the beginning of the season during a long weekend or a special event, such as Mother's Day. These sales are perfect for picking up plants and fresh soil. The next big sale time is at the end of the season, which for greenhouses can be as early as the beginning of July. That will still give you at least two months to enjoy your garden. These sales are bigger and they are the perfect time for buying furniture and statues that will last for years.

The second way is to comparison shop. Go around to different stores and see how their prices compare to each other. Often, you can find the exact same item for cheaper at another store. As well, stores may have a discount section for discontinued items or damaged items that can be easily fixed. Don't overlook this section as you may be able to find some great deals.

A third way to save money is to buy a product that is similar but cheaper. When I was building my flower garden in my front yard, I found a brick stone that I liked at one store. It was a sandy colour and had a tumble stone look to it, with rounded edges. I then went to another store and found a very similar looking stone. This stone was the same colour as the other one, but its edges were straighter. Best of all, it was 50 cents cheaper per brick! Since I had to use 18 bricks, I saved nine dollars and my flower garden looks great!

The fourth way is to join a gardening club and organize a garden swap. Each person who attends brings seeds, plant cuttings and even tools they don't use anymore. For each item that they bring, they can trade that item for another item that someone else brought. Plus, you will get to meet new people and have fun at the same time.

Finally, a fifth way to save money is to take your time when shopping and gardening. Bigger and mature plants are more expensive. Start with a smaller plant, a cutting or seeds. Not only are they cheaper, but they will grow bigger over the season. It is very satisfying to see a plant grow and blossom under your nurturing care.



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