Do Costco Sell Plants? A Gardener’s Definitive Guide

Yes, Costco does sell plants. From vibrant annuals that splash color onto your patio to robust perennials promising years of beauty, and even impressive indoor trees that transform your living space, Costco’s plant selection offers something for almost every gardener. But as with anything Costco, there’s a nuanced landscape to navigate when it comes to their horticultural offerings.

The Costco Plant Aisle: A Seasonal Symphony

Forget pristine garden centers with perfectly manicured displays. Costco’s plant section is more of a treasure hunt, a dynamic, often surprising corner that reflects the current season and prevailing market trends. While availability can be a bit of a gamble, the potential rewards – quality plants at unbeatable prices – are often well worth the effort.

Decoding the Selection

Costco’s plant offerings vary considerably based on several key factors:

• Season: Spring heralds a riot of blooming annuals like petunias, impatiens, and geraniums, perfect for filling containers and flowerbeds. Summer sees an influx of heat-tolerant varieties and larger specimen plants suitable for landscaping. Fall brings mums, ornamental cabbage, and other cool-season favorites. And in the winter? Well, depending on your location, you might find festive evergreens and poinsettias around the holidays, or perhaps a lull until spring returns.
• Location: Geographic location plays a crucial role. A Costco in Southern California will likely boast a very different selection than one in Maine. Expect to find plants well-suited to your region’s climate and growing conditions.
• Inventory Turnover: Costco operates on a high-volume, rapid-turnover model. This means that plant availability can change quickly, sometimes even within the same day. If you see something you love, don’t hesitate – it might not be there tomorrow!
• Special Events: Keep an eye out for special plant events or promotions, often advertised in-store or online. These events can offer exceptional deals on bulk purchases or unique plant varieties.

What Kind of Plants Can You Expect?

While specifics are always subject to change, here’s a general overview of the plant types commonly found at Costco:

• Annuals: Bedding plants like petunias, pansies, marigolds, impatiens, and geraniums are staples.
• Perennials: You might find daylilies, hostas, lavender, echinacea (coneflowers), and other long-lived favorites.
• Shrubs: Roses, hydrangeas, azaleas, and other flowering shrubs are frequently available, especially during spring and fall.
• Trees: Smaller trees like Japanese maples or fruit trees may occasionally appear, but larger trees are less common.
• Indoor Plants: Peace lilies, snake plants (Sansevieria), ZZ plants, and even larger indoor trees like Fiddle Leaf Figs or olive trees are becoming increasingly popular.
• Vegetable Starts: In the spring, look for tomato, pepper, and herb seedlings to get your vegetable garden off to a strong start.
• Seasonal Offerings: Poinsettias during Christmas, Easter lilies in the spring, and mums in the fall are all predictable seasonal staples.

Navigating the Costco Plant Purchase

Beyond the thrill of the hunt, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind when buying plants at Costco:

• Inspect Carefully: Just like with any plant purchase, carefully examine the plants for signs of pests, diseases, or damage. Check the leaves, stems, and roots (if visible) before making your decision.
• Consider the Container: Plants are often sold in large containers or multi-packs. Make sure you have enough space to accommodate them and that the containers are in good condition.
• Read the Labels: Pay close attention to plant labels for information on sunlight requirements, watering needs, and hardiness zones. This information is crucial for ensuring the plant’s long-term health.
• Transport with Care: Plants can be delicate, so handle them with care during transport. Secure them in your vehicle to prevent damage.
• Acclimatize New Plants: Don’t immediately plant your new plants in full sun. Gradually acclimatize them to their new environment over a few days to reduce transplant shock.
• Water Thoroughly: Water your newly planted plants thoroughly after planting to help them establish their roots.

The Costco Advantage: Price and Quality

The biggest draw to buying plants at Costco is undoubtedly the price. They often offer significantly lower prices than traditional garden centers, thanks to their bulk buying power and efficient operations.

But don’t let the low prices fool you. The quality of Costco’s plants is often surprisingly good. They source from reputable growers and, due to their high turnover, plants are usually relatively fresh. However, remember to always inspect before you buy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Costco plants guaranteed?

Costco’s generous return policy often extends to plants, but it’s always best to confirm the specific policy with your local Costco before making a purchase. Look for signage in the plant section or ask a staff member.

2. Does Costco sell organic plants?

While Costco’s plant selection may occasionally include organically grown options, they are not consistently labeled as such. Read the plant labels carefully to determine if a particular plant is certified organic.

3. Can I order plants online from Costco?

Not typically. While Costco.com offers a vast array of products, plants are usually only available for purchase in-store. Occasionally, you may find larger landscape items available online.

4. What time of year does Costco sell the most plants?

Spring is generally the peak season for plant sales at Costco. This is when you’ll find the widest selection of annuals, perennials, and vegetable starts.

5. How do Costco’s plant prices compare to other stores?

Costco’s plant prices are typically lower than those at traditional garden centers or nurseries. However, it’s always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase.

6. Does Costco offer landscaping services?

No, Costco does not offer landscaping services. They primarily focus on selling plants and gardening supplies.

7. Do Costco plants come with planting instructions?

Sometimes. Some plants may include basic planting instructions on the label, but others may not. It’s always a good idea to research the specific plant variety online or consult with a local gardening expert.

8. How often does Costco restock their plant selection?

Restocking frequency varies depending on the season and demand. It’s best to check back regularly to see what’s new.

9. Does Costco sell gardening tools and supplies?

Yes, Costco sells a variety of gardening tools and supplies, including potting soil, fertilizer, watering cans, and gloves.

10. Are Costco plants suitable for beginners?

Yes, many of Costco’s plants are relatively easy to grow, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners. However, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate and growing conditions.

11. What should I do if my Costco plant dies shortly after purchase?

If your plant dies shortly after purchase and you believe it was due to a defect or poor quality, contact your local Costco to inquire about their return policy. Be prepared to provide proof of purchase.

12. Is it worth buying plants from Costco?

For many gardeners, the answer is a resounding yes. The combination of low prices, decent quality, and a wide selection makes Costco a great place to find plants for your garden. However, remember to inspect plants carefully and be prepared for a treasure hunt experience.