Guest Author - Katelyn Thomas
This year, I decided to review Bluestone Perennials, a mail order plant service I have used in the past with good results.
I placed two orders for perennials and shrubs. The site was easy to use, but, if you prefer, you can order using the paper catalog or you can place an order by phone. (The catalog is really nice, but if you order from the site, you can take advantage of specials.)
I received an email notice of shipment when each order was sent out and the orders both arrived on time. The first order came with a pleasant surprise - a coupon book filled with offers that are redeemable on the next order. The plants were covered in peanuts, so were a bit messy to unpack. The company sends a note that explains that they have not come up with a better alternative. However, with the peanuts flying everywhere, this is a job best done outside.(Ecologically aware plant lovers will be happy to know that you can pack up the peanuts and the plant pots and ship them back to Bluestone. Bluestone will then give you a credit for free shipping on your next order.)
All of the plants were well potted. Some were dormant, but the ones that had leafed out looked healthy and happy. I followed the instructions that were included and kept them in a shady area and watered them well for a week before planting.
Although the shrubs were small, they were well rooted and came with a fertilizer tablet to ensure good growth. A month after planting, they have all leafed out and several have already increased in size.
The perennials have also leafed out and started to grow. In fact, out of the fifty nine plants I bought, only one failed to leaf out. Since Bluestone has a reputation for standing behind their plants and has always replaced any of my plants that didn't leaf out, I am not at all concerned about this.
All in all, I am very pleased with the service and selection at Bluestone Perennials. I give this plant company five out of five stars.
**Update: Bluestone quickly replaced the one dead plant immediately.
