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Where are you buying from?By Tracey Payton OSU Horticulture Extension Educator It's that time of year again. Everyone is looking to beautify their lawns, gardens, and maybe grow some fresh produce, too. However, if you shop at some of the local, so-called "box" stores, do you know where their plants come from? I think it is important to ask. Some of those stores are trying to transition to buying more locally grown crops. However, due to price competition and corporate decisions, it may not be possible. Therefore, many of our plants are bought and shipped from other states such as California, Michigan, Colorado, and Florida--to name a few. We have many nurseries and greenhouses in Oklahoma that we should be supporting. This not only goes for your vegetable crops, but especially landscape material. It is a sad story that a lot of our local businesses are forced to find a niche or close their doors, due to corporate business pressure. However, by buying Oklahoma grown, you may find more unique, higher quality, more suitable, and better acclimated plants for our area and, in some cases, get better service and plant information. If you do have to spend a little more than you would at some of the "box" stores, that money stays in Oklahoma and improves our economy. So, the next time you see the next "must have" for your garden, consider whose livelihood you may be affecting. For more information, call the Cleveland County OSU Extension Office at 405-321-4774 or come by our office at 601 E. Robinson St. in Norman. 6/2/08 Date: 5/27/08
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