Bloomin Designs NurseryAnswer
Dec 04, 2025 - 10:42 AM
Here is a suggested response tailored to your "Neighborly & Expert" tone, addressing the customer's specific concerns about Zone 7b frost and plug care.
Subject: Getting your plugs ready for Spring! 🌿
Hello!
Thanks for reaching out! It is great to hear you are planning ahead. You are absolutely right to be cautious about the frost we are already seeing in Zone 7b; those online sources are correct that plugs generally need to be in the ground well before the first hard frost to establish roots, or else wait until the danger has passed in spring.
Here are the answers to your questions:
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Will 30-count flats be available for spring planting?
Yes, we plan to have 30-count flats available for spring planting. However, please keep in mind that our inventory is finite and perishable, so popular varieties can sell out as we get closer to the planting season.
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Can I buy a flat now and keep it inside at 40-50 degrees?
Technically, yes, you can over winter them this way. A temperature range of 40-50 degrees is generally acceptable for keeping perennials dormant but safe from freezing. However, I would advise caution here. Plugs have a very small volume of soil, which means they can dry out incredibly fast in a garage or basement. You would need to monitor their moisture constantly to ensure they don't desiccate (dry out) or rot from too much water. There is also a risk that 50-degree temperatures might wake them up out of dormancy too early before the sun is strong enough to support them.
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If I buy them now, can I designate spring shipping?
Yes! We actually allow you to choose a preferredSubmit New Answer
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future shipping week when you place your order. This is often the best way to secure the specific plants you want without having to worry about storing them yourself.
Our Recommendation:
Since you asked which is best—if the answer to all three is yes—I strongly recommend Question #3: Buy them and designate spring shipping.
By doing this, you reserve the stock now so you don't miss out, but you let us take on the risk and work of over wintering them in our professional conditions. We will ship them to you fresh when your Zone 7b weather is ready for planting!
Happy Gardening,
Blossom
Bloomin Designs Nursery
