Pegasus

When you're selecting nursery stock, look at whether plants are pot-bound or root-restricted—a sign they've been sitting on the shelf too long. Healthy specimens have firm stems, green leaves without spotting or yellowing, and soil that's moist but not waterlogged. Check for pests hiding under leaves or around the soil line. A good nursery removes diseased stock quickly, rotates inventory so nothing ages unnecessarily, and can tell you the age of what they're selling. Staff should know the difference between varieties—why one croton tolerates lower light than another, or which rose cultivar resists mildew in humid areas. They'll also be honest about whether something needs specialist care or thrives with neglect. These details matter more than flashy displays or promises, and they're what separates a place you trust from one you'll regret.