Advantages of Buying Plants Early

Written By Bryan Aguilar

If you visit a nursery early in the season, you’ll often see something like the photo above: rows of dormant shrubs and perennials, many still bare or just beginning to wake up from winter. While these plants might not look impressive yet, buying early can actually be a smart move for homeowners planning landscaping projects.

But like most things in landscaping, there are both advantages and disadvantages to purchasing plants this early in the year.

1. The Best Selection

Early in the season is when nurseries have the widest selection of plants. Popular shrubs, trees, and perennials often sell out quickly once spring planting season ramps up, buying early ensures you get the exact varieties you want.

2. Plants Establish Roots Before Summer Heat

Planting earlier in the season gives plants extra time to establish roots before the intense summer heat arrives.

In climates like Colorado, this can be a big advantage because:

  • Roots develop in cooler soil

  • Plants experience less heat stress

  • They’re stronger by the time hot July and August temperatures arrive

This often leads to better long-term plant health.

3. Easier Planting Conditions

Spring soil tends to be softer and easier to work with, especially compared to dry mid-summer soil.

Early planting means:

  • Less watering required initially

  • Lower transplant shock

  • Faster root establishment

For landscapers and homeowners alike, this can make installation much easier and more successful.

4. Ideal Time for Landscape Planning

Buying plants early helps you start planning and laying out your landscape design before the busy season.

Instead of scrambling later when plants are sold out, you can:

  • Stage plants in place

  • Adjust spacing and layout

  • Build beds, edging, or retaining walls around them

Buying plants early in the season may not be the most visually exciting time at the nursery, but it can be one of the smartest times to purchase landscaping plants.

You get the best selection, plants establish roots earlier, and your landscape has a stronger start heading into summer.

✅ Need help planning your landscape project?
Schedule a consultation with Doug Current Retaining Walls and Landscapes to design a landscape that thrives in Colorado’s climate.

Bryan Aguilar
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Disadvantages of buying plants early