I think it is fair to say that plant shopping is one of the best retail therapies out there.
What feeling do you get when you walk into a nursery? I, for one, have mixed feelings – definitely excitement, but also stress that I wont be able to fit all the plants in my car.
The stress is always short-lived, once I realise that there is always space in the car (who needs to see the road whilst driving?) 😉
Back on topic – this blog post is aimed at helping you make the most informed decisions when buying plants.
It’s easy to fill your home with plants, but its also nice if they all survive.
BEFORE you go shopping
It’s easy to have a list of all the plants you want to buy, but not all plants will suit your home.
So do a little research beforehand:
1. What are the growing conditions required for the plant(s). Does your home have ideal lighting, humidity and temperature?
2. Do you have kids or pets? Will the plant(s) you’re wanting, be safe for them?
3. Is there enough space to place your plants? Always aim to have your plants in an area with bright indirect lighting, unless the plant requires otherwise.
4. Take the Plant Parent Personality Test to find out which plant suits your personality – thanks to Maria at Bloom & Grow Radio.
Choosing your plant
When deciding on which plant to buy, consider the following:
1. Plant health – how does the plant look? Avoid buying any plants that have any signs of pests, fungal infections or leaf/stem damage. If you really do need to buy the plant, keep it in isolation when you get home, until you can get it healthy again.
2. If you’re a new plant parent, start small – size and collection. Its normal to want to buy the biggest and most beautiful looking Ficus lyrata (like the one you saw on Instagram), but the care requirements take a little more experience. Try choose a small plant, in a 4-inch pot, and get used to it’s care in your home environment.
3. Price – don’t ‘waste’ your money on overpriced plants. Have a look around first, contact local nurseries and find the best deal.
For a list of local nurseries – visit the Directory
The Houseplant Diaries 