How to Make the Most of a Day at the Trade Market

Consider going to a trade market like Din San Nursery to look at plants? That can be a fun but also busy and potentially overwhelming experience. The best trade markets in the country host scores of growers, and there's a lot to see. To make the most of your time, take these tips into account.

1. Leave Lots of Time

With so much to see, you don't want to be rushed. Consider going to the trade market on a day when you can schedule ample time to really walk through the market, compare different options and just browse. If you just want to grab an item and get in and out, you may be better off going to a smaller nursery or calling the market ahead of time to see if they can put that item aside for you.

2. Take Photos and Make Notes

In some cases, you may not make a purchase the same day you go to the trade market. Instead, you may want to go home and weigh the various options in front of you. To make that possible, make sure to pick up brochures and marketing materials from the growers that you meet.

Also, consider snapping a few photos, and if your phone allows it, make notes with each photo. That makes it easy to compare different types of plants, landscaping rocks and other materials later when you are at home.

3. Write a List of Questions

A quality trade market should have knowledgeable horticulture staff on hand. Make the most of these professionals and mine their knowledge. So you don't forget your most pressing concerns, make a list of questions before you head to the market.

Whether you're looking for the best drought-resistant plants for your area, thinking about pairing various plants or brimming with other questions, a horticulturalist at the market should be able to help you.

4. Make Sure You Get Wholesale Prices

Trade markets typically offer items for sale at both consumer and wholesale prices. To access wholesale prices, you may need to do a bit of paperwork or register with the trade market. The process varies depending on the market. For instance, you may be required to have a business number and register your business with the market online to receive wholesale prices. Figure out what you need to do before the big day.

Once those elements are in place, all you have to do is head to the trade market and enjoy.