Are you a Saver or Thrower? – Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, it is important to know (or discover) if you are someone who will rescue every sick plant and each baby that is born from your labors regardless of how they look. Or, if you will discard weaker plants and start with something fresh. No matter the price of many plants, people fall into one of these categories. I quickly discard any plants that cost less than $50. A landscape plant that is costly will be tended to as long as possible. Potted plants generally will run their course in my garden and then go to the compost heap. Which gardener are you?
Have a question? Email Marylee.
Sign up for our Potted E-News today. Receive monthly potted garden information as well as SW Arizona freeze alerts, heat and wind advisories.
This article appears in Apr 19-25, 2012.


I am a saver. If it’s still alive, I can’t afford to throw out a $49 plant any more than I can afford those fancy glazed pots you have. I have brought plants back from almost dead that are now thriving.
Got a handbook for the backyard gardner on a budget?
Good for you – bringing plants back from the almost dead category that is!! Sorry – no handbook available. I bet you have figured most of the low costs ways to plant yourself! Shopping yard sales and getting cuttings, seeds, etc from friends is certainly the way to work on a budget.
And my potted enews is free so be sure to subscribe. Happy Gardening!
I garden to eat, lots of veggies. I find it hard to eat store produce, you don’t know what’s in or on theme.
We are lucky here in AZ, we can grow all year round.