Rescue Plants

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It is so satisfying to liberate plants from the imprisonment of an uncaring Big Box store. This I did last Fall when I found three Agave desmettiana, a mature plant with two large offsets crammed into a two gallon pot. I managed to winter them over under lights in my basement and was further satisfied last week when on a mild day I was able to take them out onto the balcony where, with a little surgery, I was able to separate them and give them their own root space in new pots. I can't wait for the warmer weather when I can get them out of doors. 

Agave desmettiana 'Variegata' and two offspring, crammed into a 2 gallon pot.

Divided and repotted.

Comments

Paul Jung said…
Nice intervention! (They were destined for the garbage bin otherwise.)

I've rescued many perennials and shrubs over the years at big box stores. Always a delight to see garden center staff neglect watering plants, too busy on their smartphones I guess...
March 31, 2015 at 11:48 AM
LauraH said…
They look incredibly healthy. Nice work.
March 31, 2015 at 1:22 PM
Barry Parker said…
Thanks Paul. You're right these plants are just a product to be moved off the shelves. But in the meantime it seems never to occur to the staff that they might need water and light.
March 31, 2015 at 1:22 PM
Anne said…
They look so much happier repotted! Your story reminded me of the plants I used to rescue from the garbage area of my local White Rose store many years ago.
March 31, 2015 at 1:35 PM
Barry Parker said…
Laura and Anne, Thanks for your comments, you are right, all plants are happier and healthier.
April 1, 2015 at 1:06 PM
CanadianGardenJoy said…
Barry these are gorgeous plants and living thanks to you and your magic touch in saving them for a better life!
I'll have to go shopping with you some time when you find bargains like this!
Joy : )
April 9, 2015 at 3:12 PM
Barry Parker said…
Hi Joy, You can join me anytime on shopping trips, let me know if you visit Montréal.
April 10, 2015 at 8:25 AM
Louisette said…
A lovely rescue,Wonderfull photos,Happy New Year,
Best regard from Belgium.

http://louisette.eklablog.com " blog my city Mons in Belgium"
January 3, 2016 at 1:58 PM
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