Sourcing Garden Essentials When Sheltered-In-Place: An Overview of Options Amidst Stock Limitations
In these COVID-19 times, the interest in gardening has peaked, yet finding needed supplies can be a challenge. With stores being avoided and online sources backlogged or not taking orders, here's a rundown of out-of-the-box solutions for securing those gardening essentials –they're great options whether in a lockdown or not!
Options that Limit Personal Contact
Online Shopping
From seed companies to specialty online garden stores, there's no escaping the internet's pull. However, be cautious when purchasing seeds from Amazon or Etsy, and stick with reputable suppliers for the best results.
For bigger garden centers like Lowe's or Home Depot, consider placing orders online and having them shipped straight to your doorstep. If shipping isn't an option, some stores offer pickup services – opt for curbside pickup whenever possible.
Local Alternatives
Garden Centers and Nurseries
Give your local garden center or nursery a call and see what they have in stock. Some may be more than willing to take phone orders and have them ready for quick pickup, often even delivered to your vehicle with minimal contact.
Landscaping Companies
For larger quantities of soil or mulch, consider your local landscaping company. They may offer delivery for a fee, or you can take advantage of their bulk services, loading your truck and trailer with compost or other supplies.
Local Municipality or Tree Service
Check with your local municipality or tree service for free or low-cost mulch. Many cities grind fallen tree limbs into mulch and offer it for free if you pick it up. It might take a call or two, but it's worth the effort.
Person-to-Person Options
Take advantage of Facebook Marketplace, local gardening groups, or even Facebook groups for gardeners in your area. You might find gardeners eager to sell surplus seedlings, young plants, or even gardening tools.
Get Your Hands Dirty – Rediscover Resourcefulness
For soil enrichment, consider using available materials like grass clippings, leaves, cardboard, or compost. Mix in items like used coffee grounds, eggshells, or wood ash from your fireplace. Get creative and make use of what's at hand.
Make the Most of What You Have Already
Look inside your pantry or crisper drawer for gardening opportunities. Plant sprouting sweet potatoes, pinto beans, or even store-bought vegetable seeds – just remember, hybrid varieties may not grow as expected. Let’s embrace the spirit of make-do during this time of crisis.
Where are you planning to buy your garden supplies this year? Share your recommendations below, and let's help each other grow!
- During these COVID-19 times, online shopping for seeds from reputable seed companies or specialty online garden stores, or placing orders from bigger garden centers like Lowe's or Home Depot for home delivery, is a valuable option for gardening essentials.
- If online shopping isn't an option, consider contacting your local garden center or nursery to enquire about phone orders and quick pickup, or utilizing the pickup or curbside pickup services they may offer.
- For larger quantities of soil or mulch, landscaping companies, local municipality, or tree services can be resources for delivery or bulk services to fill your needs.
- Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace, local gardening groups, or Facebook groups for gardeners in your area can be excellent places to find surplus seedlings, young plants, or gardening tools from other enthusiasts, promoting a more sustainable lifestyle while limiting personal contact.
