With spring in full swing, it’s time to go shopping for plants. While adding to or creating a garden has obvious green credentials, some plants are more sustainable than others.

Whether it’s hidden peat, throwaway plants, high water and energy use, transport emissions or plastic pots that can’t be recycled, here’s what to avoid – and what is better to buy instead – for a truly sustainable plot.

How to buy plants sustainably

Buy once

The right plant in the right spot will survive and thrive. Before you shop, take into account light, humidity, and either room temperature indoors or soil and aspect outside – to avoid waste and repeated buys. Popular plants for sunny, south-facing gardens include dianthus ( Dianthus carthusianorum , carthusian pink) tulbaghia ( Tulbaghia violacea , society garlic) and salvias ( Salvia “Nachtvlinder”, sage).…