Exploring the Farm Plant Starts in New Hampshire's North Country to find out #WhereToGoWednesday

With the final frost (fingers crossed) off the calendar the time to explore growing for your garden is here. If you’ve ever traveled through the north country of New Hampshire in spring, you know the charm of farm stands bursting with fresh produce and local goods. But did you know many of these stands also offer a delightful selection of plant starts? For gardeners and plant lovers, these farm stands are a treasure trove of healthy, locally grown seedlings ready to jumpstart your garden. This guide takes you on a casual tour of where to find the best plant starts at farm stands in New Hampshire’s north country, with tips on what to look for and how to make the most of your visit.

Remember to visit the North Country Farm Trail Store for your shopping list, notepads, and stickers to remind friends to Join Us On The Farm Trail.

Herb and vegetable plant starts at Threefold Farmstand in Northumberland

What is a Plant Start

Plant starts (also known as seedlings or transplants) are young plants that have been sprouted from seeds and nurtured in a controlled environment until they are robust enough to be transferred into a garden or larger container.

Why Choose Plant Starts from Farm Stands?

Buying plant starts from farm stands offers several advantages over big-box stores or nurseries. First, these plants are grown locally, which means they are adapted to New Hampshire’s climate and soil conditions. This local adaptation often results in stronger, healthier plants that are more likely to thrive in your garden.

Farm stands also provide a more personal experience. You can chat with the growers, ask questions about plant care, and get recommendations tailored to your garden’s needs. Plus, supporting local farmers helps keep the community vibrant and sustainable.

Popular Farm Stands Offering Plant Starts in the North Country

Here are some go-to farm stands where you can find a variety of plant starts, from vegetables, herbs, flowers to potted plants and hanging baskets

• Threefold Farmstand, Northumberland

This stand offers a wide selection of vegetable starts including tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. The grower offers a variety of apothocary items, and coffees and teas as well.

• Auntie Ash Gardening, Bethlehem

Auntie Ash Gardening offers a mix of flower and herbal starts. Herbs & veggie plants, Annuals & accent filler plants, Large bug repellent plants, Homemade potted arrangements & hanging baskets and perennial starts are especially popular.

• Serenity Farms, Greenhouse, and Farmstore , Stratford

Serenity Farm is a small family run greenhouse and farm, offering vegetable, herb, & flower plants; free range eggs; farm fresh produce; beef; pork; goat; whole chicken; whole turkey; Antiques and local made crafts.

What to Look for When Choosing Plant Starts

When you arrive at a farm stand, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the colorful trays of seedlings. Here are some quick tips to help you pick the best plants:

• Check the leaves for any signs of yellowing, spots, or wilting. Healthy leaves should be vibrant and firm.

• Look at the roots if possible. Plants with roots circling the bottom of their pots might be root-bound and stressed.

• Choose plants that are sturdy but not too tall or leggy. Leggy plants have stretched too much and may struggle to grow strong.

• Ask about the growing conditions. Farmers can tell you if the plants were hardened off (gradually introduced to outdoor conditions), which helps them adjust better to your garden.

  
  

Tips for Planting and Caring for Your New Starts

Once you bring your plant starts home, proper care will help them flourish:

• Acclimate your plants by placing them outside for a few hours each day over a week before planting them in the ground.

• Prepare your soil by loosening it and mixing in compost or organic matter to give your plants a nutrient boost.

• Water your plants well after transplanting and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

• Space your plants properly to allow for growth and air circulation, which helps prevent disease.

  
  

Plant Starts in the Serenity Farm Greenhouse

Seasonal Highlights and Special Finds

Spring and early summer are the best times to find plant starts at farm stands. Many stands open as soon as the frost is out of the ground and keep their selections fresh through June. Some stands also offer unique finds like:

• Heritage tomato varieties that you won’t find in supermarkets.

• Medicinal herbs such as chamomile and echinacea.

• Native wildflowers that attract pollinators and add natural beauty to your garden.

  
  

Keep an eye out for special events or plant sales at farm stands. These often include workshops or demonstrations on planting and garden care.

Making Your Farm Stand Visit a Fun Experience

Visiting farm stands for plant starts can be a relaxing and enjoyable outing. Here are some ways to make the most of it:

• Bring a tote or basket to carry your plants safely.

• Go early in the day for the best selection.

• Talk to the farmers about their growing methods and favorite plants.

• Combine your visit with a walk or picnic nearby to enjoy the north country’s natural beauty.

  
  

Flower and Herb Starts at Auntie Ash Gardening in Bethlehem, New Hampshire