There’s something deeply satisfying about spotting a marked-down plant and imagining it thriving in your garden or on your patio. Nursery clearance sections can be full of hidden gems – but only if you know how to shop them wisely.  

Buying cheap for the sake of it often leads to disappointment. The real skill lies in choosing plants with potential and making sure they suit your space, climate and lifestyle. 

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Here’s how to browse the clearance shelves like a seasoned gardener:

Start with your space, not the price

Before you even reach for a trolley, think about where the plant will live. Our varied South African climates mean what thrives in Durban won’t always cope in the Karoo or the Highveld.  

Check whether you have the right sunlight, temperatures and watering habits for the plant you’re considering. A bargain isn’t a bargain if it struggles from day one. 

What to look for

Healthy leaves: A few scruffy edges are fine, but leaves should still show good colour. Avoid plants that are completely yellow, grey or limp. Strong colour usually means the plant’s core systems are still working. 

Firm stems: Gently squeeze the stems or branches. They should feel sturdy, not hollow or mushy. A little flexibility is ideal and often a sign the plant just needs better care. 

Roots that look alive: If possible, slide the plant out of its pot. Healthy roots are pale, firm and lightly tangled. Skip anything with dark, slimy roots or a strong unpleasant smell. 

Signs of new growth: Tiny fresh leaves or buds are a very good sign. They show the plant still has energy and wants to grow. 

What to leave behind

Obvious pest problems: Sticky residue, holes, curled leaves or fine webbing are all red flags. Pests spread fast and can cause more trouble than the plant is worth. 

Severe root damage: If the root system is soft, blackened or falling apart, it’s best to walk away. These plants rarely recover fully. 

Plants bought for looks alone: A flower-covered plant might look tempting, but blooms don’t always equal health. Some plants flower when stressed, right before declining. 

How to help a clearance plant recover

Quarantine first: Keep new plants away from the rest of your collection for a few weeks. This gives you time to spot problems early.

Repot soon: Most nursery plants are grown in basic mixes. Fresh soil suited to home growing can make a huge difference.

Trim the tired bits: Remove dead leaves and damaged stems so the plant can focus on healthy growth.

Place it correctly: Match the plant to the right light levels straight away. Avoid sudden harsh sun, especially if it’s been tucked into a shaded corner at the nursery.

Water gently: Water thoroughly, then allow the plant to settle. Overwatering is one of the biggest reasons clearance plants struggle again at home. 

When propagation is the smarter choice

Sometimes the plant itself can’t be saved – but a cutting can. Succulents and many indoor plants root easily from healthy stems or leaves. It’s a rewarding way to turn a small spend into a whole new plant. 

Shopping the clearance section isn’t about rescuing everything in sight. It’s about choosing plants that fit your environment and giving them what they need to flourish. Buy with intention, not impulse, and your garden will thank you for it. 

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