I agree JoAnn, even though I hadn't heard about the plug thing. I actually found a 2-gallon size Magnus for $2.00 on the 4th and snapped it up, along with several other plants. All but one were full and lush looking but not blooming, so maybe that's why they were so cheap. Only one looked a bit rough on top, but it's a fringed bleeding heart and should recover. All were definitely rootbound; the Sunningdale astrantia was even growing out of the bottom of the pot. Sometimes the end of season plants do look crispy or sparse on top, but as long as there are a couple of good leaves I then look carefully for signs of disease or pests and for good roots. If the plant passes those tests, I will buy it. I generally trim and water them, and keep them segregated for awhile just to be sure of the plant health-but I haven't had a problem yet.
