How We Pick Plants That Survive
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If you’ve ever watched a Central Illinois forecast swing from drought to downpour, or felt the bite of a -20°F morning, you know our region can be a real test for gardeners. Not every plant on the market is up to the challenge. That’s why, at Hoerr Nursery, we go the extra mile—literally and figuratively—to make sure what you plant has the best chance to thrive. Here's how we do it:
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We don’t just rely on what’s popular or new. For example, our perennial team, Jon and Justyn, just got back from scouting plant suppliers and visiting plant trial sites, on the lookout for varieties that have got what it takes to grow here. We dig deep into trial reports from trusted sources like the Chicago Botanic Garden, evaluating how plants perform through extremes of cold, heat, drought, and rain.
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Prelude Blue Catmint in a trial bed at Darwin Perennials
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We trial plants ourselves right here at the nursery, as well as in our own gardens. There’s no substitute for firsthand experience! If a plant can’t handle a Central Illinois winter or a soggy spring in our test beds, it doesn’t make the cut.
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Indian Pink in Ella's garden
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3. Your Feedback Grows Better Gardens
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Your stories and feedback are our secret ingredient. We keep a close eye on warranty returns and, more importantly, to the experiences you share with us. If you've got a star performer, or, on the flip side, if a plant isn’t performing in your yard, we want to know. That’s why we encourage you to reach out with your questions and comments. Your insights help us fine-tune our selections so that every gardener in our community benefits.
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Our commitment to quality and resilience isn’t just business, it’s personal. For nearly a century, Hoerr Nursery has been helping Central Illinois gardens to flourish, no matter the weather. We care deeply about your success, and we’re always learning, adapting, and improving.
When you choose Hoerr Nursery, you’re not just buying a plant—you’re gaining a team of passionate plant experts who are always here to help. We’re committed to bringing you the best plants for Central Illinois, and we’re honored to be part of your gardening journey.
Happy gardening!
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Enjoy Fall Mums, Year After Year!
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If you’ve ever wished that your vibrant fall mums would return for an encore season, we’ve got exciting news for you! Planting hardy Igloo series mums now gives you a great chance to enjoy their cheerful blooms every autumn.
How to Get a Repeat Performance
- Plant early: Now is the perfect time to get these mums in the ground!
- Use Biotone or Root Stimulator: These natural root enhancers help your mums establish themselves ahead of winter, setting them up for long-lasting health and repeat blooms.
- Water Regularly: Keeping your mums watered through the heat of summer keeps them strong and stress-free.
Mike, Rita, Renee, and several other team members have woven Igloo mums into their own perennial beds, and found them reliable. If you're interested in hardy mums, we hope you'll consider them too. We have a number of colors in stock, so you can pick your favorite shades. The sooner you plant them, the better chance they have to return!
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🌿 Pest Alert for Arborvitae & Juniper:
Evergreen Bagworms 🌿
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Evergreen bagworms are caterpillars that build distinctive silk bags covered with leaves and twigs, resembling small conifer cones. Early-stage bags can be as small as ¼ inch but grow up to 2 inches by August. These caterpillars feed mainly on arborvitae, juniper, causing defoliation and potentially severe damage.
Once bagworms reach full size, they become nearly invincible to pesticides. Mature females lay up to 1,000 eggs inside their bags, which overwinter and hatch in spring, continuing the cycle. Early detection and treatment are critical to protect your trees.
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Scout Regularly: Check your arborvitae and juniper frequently for the small, camouflaged bags, especially on plants with past infestations.
Hand-Pick Small Infestations: If you find fewer than 10 bags, remove them by hand and destroy them by squishing or soaking in soapy water. This is the most economical and effective early control.
Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): For larger infestations, spray Bt, a biological insecticide safe for most insects but lethal to young bagworm larvae. Apply Bt when larvae are small, as it loses effectiveness once they grow larger.
Taking these steps now can save your evergreens from serious harm and keep your garden healthy and beautiful. Plus, hand-picking can be surprisingly satisfying!
If you want expert guidance or more detailed advice on timing and products, feel free to ask.
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Closed for Independence Day
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Please note that Hoerr Nursery will be closed on Friday, July 4th to allow our team to enjoy the holiday with their loved ones. Whether you’re prepping your summer garden or looking for that perfect plant, we’re here to help before and after the holiday!
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On Sale, 6/26-7/2/25
While Supplies Last!
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Orchids - 25% off
Spring Annuals, vegetables & tropicals - 50% off
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