I don't see why local nurseries wouldn't carry Chuck Hayes or other hardy gardenias; you're close enough to the Mason/dixon line for people to consider gardenias a proper part of a garden.

However, don't be put off by mail order -- some of the more reputable nurseries are quite honest about telling you exactly how big a plant you'll be getting, and their quality is just as good as local nurseries.

Good luck!

Jim

I agree with Jim on mail order, but do contact your local nurseries, too. In fact, if possible, go in and talk to them in person. I learned a long time ago that if you get to know the people who own your local nurseries, the good ones will often order what you want because it's good business. Some even keep "request lists." I even had the manager of a box store order some things for me once. Plus, as you must know if you're here, gardeners are just inherently lovely people!

carroll gardens in westminster md carries kleins hardy gardenia is chuck hayes more hardy than kleins? I bought kleins and it died. but carroll gardens has a great plant selection and i would think that they would carry the most hardy