The Basics
Where is Native Plants Unlimited located?
We are based out of Fishers, Indiana and rent space at Geist Nursery (9890 Mollenkopf Road) for our main sales. Our "Whistle Stop Tour" brings smaller pop-up sales across central Indiana. Check our Event Page for scheduled events, and subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news on where our sales will pop up next!
We have a new sale in the works in Lewisberg, Ohio! We will update as we confirm dates!
When are your main plant sales?
Dates vary somewhat every year, but roughly:
Spring Herbaceous Sale Preorders: Feb. 2nd - Apr 1st (Groundhog's Day - April Fools)
Spring Preorder Pickups: Early May
Spring Herbaceous Sale: Early May - Late June
-
Fall Woody Sale Preorders: Aug - Early Sep.
Fall Woody Sale Preorders: Mid Sep.
Fall Woody Sale: Mid Sep. - Mid Oct.
-
Winter Bare Root Sale Preorders: Nov.
Winter Bare Root Sale Shipping: Dec. - until roots are sold out
Do you offer warranties/returns?
We do not offer warranties or returns on plants. There are too many variables after plants leave our care for us to offer warranties (it's very easy to forget to water plants, we've done it too, and we really cant cover that), and we cannot accept returns due to the risk Introducing pests and diseases to our sales.
If we have incorrectly filled an order, contact us so we can make it right with you!
If we do accept timely in person returns/exchanges of "dry goods" (seeds, tools, shirts, books, etc) as long as the item is like new.
Is the e-mail list the only way to get updates?
It is the most reliable way, but you can also follow us on Social Media! Unfortunately, various social media platforms often don't share posts with all of our followers, or do so in a timely manner. Our e-mail is the best way to get sale info, and we only use it for major announcements and reminders. Our social media pages share updates, but also photos and educational posts! Follow us on:
Facebook - Instagram - Mastodon - Blue Sky
Do you offer landscape design or plant install?
NPU does not offer design or install, but our Resources Page lists some local businesses that may be able to help!
Plant Questions
Do native plants need any special treatment during planting?
Most do not, but some specialist plants may need soil amendment. For what that means, tips, and helpful graphics, check out this blog post!
Do native plants need protection from rabbits/deer?
The short answer is yes, if deer and rabbits are present, you should at least be ready to protect plants. Check out this blog post for more info, fencing tips, and photos!
Should native plants be cut back for the winter?
For woody plants- generally no. Prune in the fall if you want to shape them so they bloom well the next year. Woody plants that can be regularly cut back are include some fast growing vines and wild hydrangea, if their yearly growth is healthy enough.
Dead stalks of herbaceous plants need to be removed at some point so the stalks don’t accumulate and smother new growth, though it does not always need to be done every year. It’s usually approached three ways:
1) leave dead stalks standing until new growth appears in the spring,
2) trim dead stalks a couple inches from the ground and leave the stalks on the ground over winter, or
3) remove and dispose of dead stalks.
The first is the best for insects, as some species overwinter in hollow stalks. The third is sometimes desired for aesthetics, particularly in front yards, but limits usefulness to some wildlife. The second is a middle ground between the two, and recommended if you can’t swing the first option. In large plantings, a mower set up off the ground can be used to clear dead stalks, and again it is best to do it in the early spring to leave winter shelter for bugs if possible.