Seeds & planting
Choose healthy seedlings and nursery plants
Check that the species, variety and mature size suit your site and climate.
When to do it
Before bringing a new plant home.
What you need
- Planting plan and plant label
How to do it
- Check that the species, variety and mature size suit your site and climate.
- Look for balanced growth, intact stems and leaves without extensive spotting or distorted tips. Inspect leaf undersides.
- With permission, check the root ball: prefer healthy roots without a dense circling mat, sour smell or collapsing base.
- Check for weeds or pests in the pot, then ask how the plant has been grown so you can acclimatise it. Keep a suspect purchase separate while identified.
What success looks like
- You know the variety and its care needs before planting.
Watch out for
- Choosing the tallest stretched seedling.
- Buying a plant solely because it is currently flowering.
Related help
Harden off seedlings before planting out
Choose mild conditions and start in sheltered light shade for a short daytime visit.
Inspect a struggling plant before treating it
Identify the plant and photograph the whole plant, affected parts and nearby healthy plants.
Sources and review
Checked 24 September 2026. Source-checked editorial guidance; not field-tested or independently reviewed by a horticulturist.