Some plants you just can’t find locally. There are so many edibles I want to have around our homestead… most of which I have come to discover no local nurseries carry. It seems my only option is ordering either via mail-order or online.
These days, gardeners have a wide range of options when it comes to where they purchase their seeds. They can buy them online from a number of different retailers, or they can purchase them from a local store.
Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, purchasing seeds online generally offers a wider selection of varieties than what is available in most stores.
And because many online retailers ship seeds from all over the world, gardeners can often find rare or hard-to-find varieties that they wouldn’t be able to find locally.
On the downside, buying seeds online can be more expensive than purchasing them from a store, and there is always the risk that the seeds will be damaged during shipping. When it comes to purchasing seeds in store, gardeners generally have access to a smaller selection of varieties.
However, they often have the opportunity to inspect the seeds before they make a purchase, and they can usually get them at a lower price than what they would pay online.
In the end, whether it’s better to buy seeds online or in store depends on the gardener’s specific needs and preferences.
When Should I Buy Seeds for Planting?
When it comes to buying seeds for planting, timing is everything. Most seeds will remain viable for several years if stored properly, so it’s usually best to buy them in the off-season when they are on sale.
However, it’s important to check the seed packet for the date of last harvest, as some seeds (such as sweet corn) will only remain viable for one year.
Once you have your seeds, it’s important to start them at the right time of year. Some seeds do best when started indoors a month or two before the last frost date, while others can be sown directly in the garden.
What to Consider When Shopping for Seeds and Plants Online
With the vast array of online seed and plant retailers, it can be tricky to know where to start when shopping for gardening supplies. Here are some tips.
Ask Other Gardeners for Recommendation
A great way to narrow down your options is to ask other gardeners for recommendations. Many experienced gardeners are happy to share their favorite online sources for high-quality seeds and plants.
In addition, you can also check out online gardening forums and review sites to get an idea of which retailers are most popular. Once you’ve compiled a list of potential sources, take some time to compare prices and shipping times to find the best deal.
And finally, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before placing your order to avoid any unexpected surprises.
How Long Has the Company Been in Business?
Take into consideration how long the company has been in business. A company that has been around for awhile is likely to be more reliable than a newer one.
What is Customer Service Like?
When shopping for seeds and plants online, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, take a look at the customer service policies. What is the process for returns or exchanges? How quickly do they respond to questions?
Good customer service is essential when shopping online, so make sure you’re comfortable with the policies before you make a purchase. Second,
Do You Need Something Specific?
What type of plant are you looking for? Make sure the website offers the specific plant or seed that you need.
Try Not to Buy Too Much
If you’re like most gardeners, you love the thrill of shopping for new seeds and plants. Whether you’re browsing online or in person, it’s hard to resist the urge to add just one more plant to your collection.
However, it’s important to be mindful of how much you’re buying, both in terms of the number of plants and the amount of money you’re spending.
Buying too many seeds or plants can quickly overwhelm a small space, and it can also put a strain on your budget.
So before you buy anything take a moment to consider how much you really need. By being selective with your purchases, you can create a beautiful garden without breaking the bank.
Shipping Costs
Consider the shipping costs. Many online retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, so it’s worth checking to see if your order qualifies.
Growing Zone and Garden Conditions
Consider the climate in your area. Not all plants will thrive in every type of weather, so it is important to choose plants that will be able to withstand the conditions where you live.
You should also think about the amount of care that you are willing to give. Some plants require more attention than others, and it is important to select a plant that you will be able to care for properly.
Best Places to Buy Seeds and Plants Online
You can find just about anything online these days, including seeds and plants. However, with so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are a few of the best places to buy seeds and plants online.
1. Dave’s Garden
Dave’s Garden is one of the largest online gardening communities, with over 500,000 members. The website offers a wide variety of resources for gardeners, including plant databases, forums, and articles.
Here you will find a list of reputable nurseries, and can look up any potential companies you are considering ordering from to see what other customers have said about them.
You can also shop for seeds and plants on the website. Dave’s Garden offers a wide selection of both common and rare plants, and the prices are very competitive. The website also has a robust community of gardeners who are always willing to offer advice and support.
Whether you’re just getting started in gardening or you’re a seasoned pro, Dave’s Garden is a great resource.
2. Botanical Interests
Botanical Interests is a premier online destination for seeds and plants. They offer a wide variety of high-quality products, including heirloom seeds, organic seeds, and even non-GMO seeds.
In addition, they have a wide selection of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Their plants are healthy and vigorous, and their prices are unbeatable. Furthermore, their customer service is excellent.
3. Kitazawa Seed Company
When it comes to shopping for seeds and plants, there are many reasons to choose Kitazawa Seed Company. First of all, they offer one of the largest selections of Asian vegetable seeds in the world.
Whether you’re looking for daikon radish seeds or shiso seeds, they have what you need. They also offer a wide variety of heirloom seeds, which are perfect for those interested in heritage gardening.
4. Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds is a leading supplier of high-quality seeds and plants. The company offers a wide range of products, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds is committed to providing customers with the best possible experience, and the website is easy to navigate. The company also offers a money-back guarantee, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible value for your purchase.
In addition, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds often offers free shipping on orders over $50, so it’s easy to get started on your gardening project.
5. Johnny’s Seeds
When it comes to shopping for seeds and plants, Johnny’s Seeds is one of the best online sources. They offer a wide variety of high-quality seeds and plants, as well as helpful growing information. Their website is easy to navigate, and their customer service is outstanding.
I have ordered from Johnny’s Seeds several times, and I have always been very happy with my purchase. The seeds germinate quickly and the plants are healthy and vigorous. I would definitely recommend shopping at Johnny’s Seeds if you are looking for quality seeds and plants.
6. Burpee
Burpee is one of the most popular names in gardening, and for good reason. They offer a wide variety of seeds and plants, as well as helpful growing information.
7. True Leaf Market
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, you’ll want to check out True Leaf Market. With a huge selection of both common and rare varieties, they’re sure to have what you’re looking for.
And because they source their products from carefully chosen growers all over the world, you can be confident that you’re getting the best possible plants and seeds.
8. Bloomscape
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, Bloomscape is the perfect place to shop. They offer a wide variety of both common and rare plant varieties, so you’re sure to find the perfect plant for your garden.
The plants are sourced from reputable growers, so you can be confident that you’re getting a healthy and robust plant. And because they ship directly to your door, there’s no need to worry about lugging heavy bags of soil or plants home from the nursery.
Shopping at Bloomscape is the convenient and hassle-free way to get the perfect plants for your garden.
9. Jung Seed
Shopping for seeds and plants can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to gardening.
However, Jung Seed is a trusted source for high-quality seeds and plants. Founded in 1926, Jung Seed has over 90 years of experience in the gardening industry.
In addition to offering a wide variety of seeds and plants, Jung Seed also provides helpful resources for gardeners of all levels of experience. Whether you’re looking for tips on starting a new garden or information on how to care for your existing plants, Jung Seed is a valuable resource.
10. Gurney’s
Gardeners know that Gurney’s is the place to go for high-quality seeds and plants. For over 200 years, we’ve been providing gardeners with everything they need to grow their best gardens.
They offer a wide variety of seeds and plants, including rare and hard-to-find varieties, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
They also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can shop with confidence.
11. Dutch Gardens
As any gardener knows, the quality of your plants and seeds is essential for a successful garden. That’s why Dutch Gardens is committed to offering only the highest-quality plants and seeds, sourced from growers around the world.
They also offer a wide variety of plant types to suit any garden, from annuals and perennials to fruits and vegetables.
12. Field & Forest Products
If you’re looking for mushrooms, you’ll want to shop at Field & Forest Products. They offer a wide variety of mushrooms, and they have a great selection of tools and supplies to help you grow them.
They also have a helpful staff who can answer your questions and give you advice on how to care for your mushrooms. In addition to mushrooms, they also sell other types of plants and seeds.
13. Urban Leaf
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, Urban Leaf is the place to shop. They offer a wide variety of options for both beginner and experienced gardeners, and the prices are unbeatable. They also provide free shipping on orders over $50 in many cases.
14. Direct Gardening
Offering a wide variety of both common and rare varieties, Direct Gardening is a one-stop shop for all your gardening needs. In addition, their prices are highly competitive, and they offer a number of discounts and promotions throughout the year.
15. Prairie Moon Nursery
At Prairie Moon Nursery, they offer a wide variety of high-quality seeds and plants that are perfect for anyone from the casual gardener to the experienced horticulturist. They offer a wide range of delivery options to make sure your plants arrive in perfect condition. Whether you’re looking for annuals, perennials, shrubs, or trees, it’s a go-to.
16. Select Seeds
Select Seeds is a trusted source for high-quality seeds and plants. They offer a wide variety of products, so you’re sure to find the perfect option for your garden.
17. American Meadow
At American Meadow, they believe that everyone should have access to high-quality seeds and plants. That’s why they offer a wide selection of both common and rare varieties, all of which are available at the online store. They also offer free shipping on orders over $75, so it’s easy to get the plants you need without having to leave home.
18. Ferry-Morse
Ferry-Morse.com is the best website to buy seeds and plants online. They have a wide variety of products to choose from, and their prices are very reasonable. They also offer a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with your purchase. Their customer service is excellent, and they offer free shipping on orders over $40.
I have been a customer of Ferry-Morse.com for several years, and I have always been very satisfied with their products and services.
19. Everwilde Farms
Everwilde Farms is one of the best places to buy seeds and plants online. They offer great deals on bulk seeds, and their selection is extensive. Their website is easy to navigate, and their customer service is excellent.
They also have a wide variety of planting accessories, such as soil amendments, mulch, and pots.
I tried Everwilde Farms for the first time this year when I was looking for pumpkin seeds and was so impressed. The quality of their products is outstanding, and their prices are unbeatable. If you are looking for a great place to buy seeds and plants online, I highly recommend Everwilde Farms. You won’t be disappointed!
20. Renee’s Garden
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, there’s no better place to buy them than online at Renee’s Garden. Here are just a few of the reasons why.
First of all, the selection is unbeatable. No matter what kind of seeds or plants you’re looking for, you’re sure to find them at Renee’s Garden. And because they offer such a wide variety of items, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for – whether it’s a new variety of tomato plant or a rare type of flower seed.
Second, the quality is excellent. All of the seeds and plants offered by Renee’s Garden are grown with care and attention, so you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality product.
Third, the prices are very competitive. Because they offer such a large selection of items, they can offer them at very competitive prices.
21. Territorial Seed Company
The Territorial Seed Company is a leading online retailer of seeds and plants.
The company offers a wide variety of high-quality products, including vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. The company also offers a number of helpful services, such as planting guides and a seed-starting forum.
22. Terrain
When it comes to seeds and plants, there are many reasons to buy online at Terrain. First and foremost, they offer a wide selection of high-quality seeds and plants that are sure to meet your needs. They also provide a convenient online shopping experience, with everything from search filters to helpful customer reviews.
23. Seeds of Change
There are many reasons to buy seeds and plants online at Seeds of Change. First, they offer a wide variety of rare and heirloom seeds that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for an exotic vegetable or a rare flower, they have the perfect seed for your garden.
Second, the seeds are certified organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, so you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality products available.
24. Seed Savers Exchange
Seed Savers is a great resource for heirloom seeds and plants. Their website includes detailed information about each variety, as well as tips on how to grow them.
25. Eden Brothers
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, Eden Brothers is the place to shop. They offer a wide variety of Seeds and plants that are perfect for any garden. Whether you’re looking for vegetables, fruits, flowers, or herbs, they have what you need. All of their seeds and plants are grown with care and attention to detail.
26. Bluestone Perennials
Bluestone Perennials is one of the leading mail-order nursery and garden center companies in North America. They specialize in European, hardy perennials that are well-suited to a variety of growing conditions. The plants are selected for their ability to thrive with minimal care. They also offer a wide range of seed packets, bulbs, and garden accessories.
27. Bonnie Plants
Bonnie Plants is the largest manufacturer of vegetable, herb, and fruit plants in the United States. Bonnie Plants was started in 1918 by Charles and Frank Banks.
The first Bonnie Plants catalog was printed in 1922, and the company has been family-owned and operated ever since. Today, Bonnie Plants has more than 100 greenhouses and 3,500 employees across the country.
Bonnie Plants is dedicated to providing high-quality plants that are easy to grow and produce abundant harvests. The company offers a wide variety of seeds and plants, including heirloom varieties, organic options, and hybrids. In addition, Bonnie Plants offers helpful growing tips and resources on their website.
28. Garden Trends
Garden Trends is an online retailer that specializes in high-quality seeds and plants. They offer a wide variety of products, including both traditional and heirloom varieties. Garden Trends also offers a wide range of planting accessories, making it easy to get everything you need for your garden in one place.
In addition, Garden Trends offers free shipping on orders over $75, making it convenient and affordable to get the supplies you need.
29. Monrovia
Monrovia is a leading online retailer of seeds and plants. The company offers a wide variety of products, including annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, fruits, and trees.
In addition to seeds and plants, Monrovia also sells gardening supplies, tools, and accessories. One of the benefits of shopping at Monrovia is the ability to search for products by plant type, sun exposure, soil type, and more. This makes it easy to find the perfect variety for your garden.
In addition, Monrovia offers a wide range of planting and care guides to help you get started.
30. Great Garden Plants
Great Garden Plants is an online nursery that offers a wide variety of seeds and plants, as well as helpful tips and advice for gardeners of all levels of experience. The website features a user-friendly search tool that makes it easy to find the perfect plant for your garden, whether you are looking for annuals, perennials, vegetables, or herbs.
31. Park Seed
Park Seed is one of the oldest and most trusted names in the business, and for good reason. For gardeners of all levels of experience, Park Seed offers high-quality seeds and plants that are sure to thrive in your garden.
In addition, the company offers a wide variety of helpful resources, including planting guides and expert advice from their horticultural staff. Park Seed also offers pre-started plants that are ready to be transplanted into your garden.
32. Proven Winners
If you’re looking for high-quality seeds and plants, there’s no better place to shop than at Proven Winners. This online retailer offers a wide selection of plants that are guaranteed to thrive in your garden. In addition, all of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Do Your Research!
Don’t just place your order with anybody. After reading dozens of reviews, I’ve come to the realization that not all nurseries and plants are created equally. Some plants come with diseases. Some come months and months later, and some don’t come at all. So do your research!!
Anyone have a particular online or catalog nursery you have been very pleased ordering from? I’d love to know who your go-to is!
updated 07/25/2022 by Rebekah Pierce
A city girl learning to homestead on an acre of land in the country. Wife and homeschooling mother of four. Enjoying life, and everything that has to do with self sufficient living.
We ordered from Baker Creek for the first time this year and were very pleased, both with the prompt service and with the high germination rate so far. We’ve had very bad experience with Heirloom Acres and will not order from their again. We’ve also had very good service from Bountiful Gardens.
I placed my first order with Southern Seed Exchange Company http://www.southernexposure.com/ . They specialize in heirlooms that grow well in the south. They also focus on non-GMO and organic seeds. Great customer service! daisy
One source of heirloom seeds I don’t see mentioned is Pinetree Garden Seeds https://www.superseeds.com/. I love to read through their catalog and reference back to it all through the growing season. We’ve ordered items from them for the past several years and always been pleased. 🙂
Hi Kendra ~ I’ve had very good luck with Heirloom Seeds and Baker Creek, as well as Stark Brothers for raspberries and blueberries. I have some apple and peach trees due to arrive on Tuesday from them. All of these companies are aces in my book.
Thanks, everybody, for all of your recommendations!! I think Baker Creek is one of the top rated seed companies out there. Definitely who I will order my seeds from next time around 🙂
I am sold on Berlin Seeds- no GMO seeds and some organic available. They are an amish gardening and supply company in Ohio. They have no website that I know of – their phone number is 18774640892. I called and placed my order last sat. and received my order yesterday. Call and get a free catalog. Lots of info and advice just in that. A fun little pack of seeds for kids to start their own little 4 x8 plot. I thought looked like a lot of fun for my kids this year. Best wishes for a beautiful garden for you:)
Something is odd with the link to Dave’s Garden. 🙂
Thanks for the heads-up, Kimberly! It should be good now 🙂
Spring Greetings from Colorado!
We have been really happy with Territorial Seed Company.
They have good descriptions, grams to seed break-down,
hints for growning and other helpful planting, growing
and harvesting information.
They also have another smaller company that is strickly
organic that we ordered from this year. It’s name escapes me right now! We are excited to give them a try!
May the Lord bless you
in you all your gardening endeavors!
I order from Seed Savers International as well. If you are looking for trees, shrubs, etc. you might want to check and see if your county’s soil conservation office offers them. In MN I beleive every local office has them for sale. They have a decent variety for trees plus raspberry bushes, juneberry bushes, plum trees, etc.
This is my first year ordering seeds online. I ordered from Baker Creek (www.rareseeds.com). I ordered online on a Monday and had my seeds (a large order) on the following Friday. They even sent a complementary pack of red romaine lettuce seeds. I’ve just planted a few so far (this week), so I don’t have any sprouts yet, but they have a good reputation so I’m expecting good results.
Territorial Seed Company has lots of organic options and is fab! If you’re looking for a great company or to shop locally in Oregon this company is based out of Cottage Grove OR. We have been very happy with them for the past three years. They also hold local workshops about gardening for free and are overall very informative and helpful. Lastly, they have a good website http://www.territorialseed.com/
You need to be careful ordering online because you could bring diseases to your area, especially with plants. Also, you should absolutely avoid the big box stores that bring plants from the south. Two years ago, late tomato blight came early to our area on plants from the south. Your best bet is to buy local from your local nurseries and you won’t be bringing in bugs and diseases from south. Some pests and diseased migrate south to north and you want to delay it’s arrival as long as possible.
Happy gardening!
i third http://www.rareseeds.com (Baker Creek). i also liked that they allow you to post reviews on the seeds so you can let others know how well they did. I also got a complimentary seed packet of a fancy carrot (i forget exact variety). They also have very good prices and a great selection. One pack of seeds were out of stock & they sent my refund, in cash, right with the order.
Now I’ve heard wonderful things about the other companies everyone mentioned but price was a determining factor for us & selection to me Baker Creek had both. Good luck no matter who you choose 🙂
I just placed my second order last night with Seedsavers…I have always been happy with them!
I have had good luck with High Mowing Seeds. They’re certified organic and the germination rates are outstanding.
I’m a Seed Savers girl! Now I just have to convince them to let me work on their farm…
We’ve had great luck with ordering from Johnny’s seed catalog. Haven’t had real good luck with some of the heirloom seeds we’ve ordered from some of those types of companies, unfortunately. Johnny’s, overall, has been the best with both customer service and quality.
I am so going to bookmark that link! I had a bad experience a couple of years ago with a big name company that I thought would be very reputable. So, I’m cautious about ordering online now. But, I did place an order a few weeks ago from Renee’s Garden and Gardens Alive for seeds and were very happy with them. Both orders were at my house within a week and that was with regular shipping.
My seed company of choice is by far Baker’s Creek. They are committed to preserve genetic diversity and offer only seeds that are free from GMOs. I have found so many unusual varieties from them that I love. Plus they have awesome customer service. I would love to visit their seed store in person. I keep telling my husband we need to take a vacation out to Missouri so I can visit LOL.
I’ve ordered from Victory Seeds for 2 years, and have been extremely pleased with their seeds and impressed by their customer service. They state as their mission: “The primary reason for our existence as an organization is to help protect open-pollinated and heirloom seed varieties.” They also sell old-fashioned gum & candies, as well as composting redworms.
I’ve gotten within-my-budget fruit trees from Costco. I have to do my research beforehand and know which varieties will actually work in my chilly climate, but still. $11 beats $44. 🙂
Places I’ve ordered from and been happy with over the years are Baker Creek (their prices have gone up as they’ve grown bigger), Irish Eyes Garden City Seeds (good potatoes! short season seeds!), Nichols, Territorial, Heirloom Acres (but you have to order a good 2-3 weeks before you need anything, they ship s-l-o-w-l-y), Simmons Plant Farm (the asparagus and blackberries rock!), Seed Savers Exchange (for the price, meh, haven’t ordered from them again) and I ordered some from a new-to-me gal that a friend (who knows the proprietor) recommended – Remy at Sample Seeds.
I have a seed problem. But at least of all the issues to have, collecting seeds isn’t one of the worst ones.
I ordered all my seeds from Seed Savers International this year, because I really like their mission to save heirloom seeds. But I’ve heard really good things from some of my serious gardening friends about territorial seed company and baker creek seeds.
I like this post Kendra, very true that it is hard or impossible in some places to find the plants you want for sale. It’s like that where I live too, so I’m glad you shared this link to see other people’s reviews of companies!