Another problem with the plants in a Big Box store is that they probably come from a different region entirely. If you plant in Canada plants that were raised in Florida, you may find they're not happy and will die. If you "harden them off" by exposing them to the weather before planting, keeping them cool but protected from the worst of the cold, that helps them adjust. Hardening off tips - I don't know about the wilting one, but I do the protected near the house method and bring them in if it gets really cold.

Starting seeds yourself is the best way to know if they're being raised in an organic way - I assume plants I buy at nurseries aren't organic, but as soon as I get them I treat them that way and as they grow they have the benefit of healthy soil, organic fertilizing and pest control and the results are going to be healthy.

SRS