Collier's Garden Scoop
March 2019
 It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is.
And when you've got it, you want -
oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want,
but it just fairly makes your heart ache, 
you want it so!
~Mark Twain
All the green-thumbs out there are twiddling excitedly as the spring  fever rises in our minds. Good news, friends! There is plenty to do and plenty to plant this month to satisfy your craving for soil on your hands and plants to feast your eyes on. During March our inventory expands dramatically, and by mid-April even the most timid gardeners are ready to plant. 
Regardless of the weather the nursery will be filling up with gorgeous plants to cure your spring fever so stop by and see us!

March Hours
Monday - Saturday 9 to 5
Now open Sundays 1 to 5!
What to Plant Now
The average last frost in central Alabama is March 20th. 
The latest recorded frost in our area was April 23rd. 
However, it's usually safe to plant all annuals by April 15th.
While we still have a few weeks to go before all threat of cold nights has passed, March is a great time to get started on
landscaping projects , perennial, herb and succulent gardens, container gardens and annual beds that can be protected if a late freeze occurs
Early Spring Annuals
There are several flowering options that will tolerate a light freeze (down to 28 degrees), including geraniums, petunias and marigolds. If you missed your chance to plant snapdragons last fall don't worry! They can be planted now, will not mind cold nights, and will bloom happily into early summer. We also have fresh pansies, violas and primrose: worry-free blooms for outdoors that will tide you over until it's safe to plant warm-season annuals.
Geranium
Petunia
Marigold
Snapdragon
Lettuce
Edibles & Herbs
Hardy herbs such as chives, lavender, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary and thyme are already in store. Basil is cold-sensitive so wait until mid-April to plant it. Leafy greens such as chard, lettuce and spinach can be planted now and will thrive until summer heat sets in. Strawberries have also arrived!  If you'd like to try this easy-to-grow fruit you can plant them now for harvest starting in early summer. Summer veggies arrive by late March and can be planted as soon as you'd like (just be prepared to protect them from freezing temps).
'Lemon Ball' Sedum
Succulents
The succulent family is large and versatile so if you've been dreaming of starting a garden or adding to your current collection we have options in-store for both indoors and out. Perennial succulents such as sedum and hen-and-chicks can be planted outdoors this month and are perfect for borders and rock gardens. Annual succulents such as echeveria can be grown indoors in bright light or direct sun until the threat of frost has passed.
Carolina Jessamine
Trees, Shrubs, Groundcovers, 
Vines & Perennials
March is an excellent time to tackle those larger landscaping projects. Planting trees, shrubs, groundcovers and vines now allows them time to develop strong root systems before hot and dry summer weather arrives. Our perennial selection expands quickly during March, so you can begin adding these hardy plants to your garden now regardless of our often fickle early spring weather.
What Not to Plant Now
There are several annuals that struggle in chilly soil and will droop immediately if exposed to cold, so it is best (for the plant and your wallet) to wait until mid-April to plant these: angelonia, caladiums, impatiens, lantana, sweet potato vine, vinca, basil & tomatoes.
Shamrocks for
Saint Paddy's Day

Saint Patrick's Day is coming up Sunday, March 17th. A fresh shipment of these green-leaved beauties arrives this morning and they will sell quickly so hurry in if you'd like to add a touch of the Emerald Isle to your home or office this week. Enjoy your shamrock plant indoors in bright light or near a sunny window and be sure to keep the soil evenly moist as they do not appreciate drying out. 
Rare Find
Cylindrical Sansevieria

This is the first time we've had this unusual variety of snake plant at the nursery and it is so cool! Sansevieria, more commonly known as snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue, is one of the easiest houseplants to grow. They thrive in low, medium or bright light and, because they are succulents, can be watered infrequently.

50% Off Select Containers & Decor
 Don't miss our Odds 'n Ends sale section,
which will only be around for another couple of weeks.
In order to make room for new inventory, we have 
marked down some of our pots & decor to half-price.
There are some fun finds so stop by soon and check it out!
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Collier's Nursery 
205-822-3133
2904 Old Rocky Ridge Road
Birmingham, AL 35243