Where Should I Buy Houseplants?

Buying houseplants can be overwhelming. Fortunately (or unfortunately for my wallet) there are a huge number of places where you can shop for plants. Here are some of the pros and cons of the most popular ways to purchase plants. 

Online Plant Shops

Online plant shops are digital marketplaces where you can browse and purchase a wide variety of plants from the comfort of your home. 

Pros:

1. Convenience: Online plant shops offer the convenience of browsing and purchasing plants from the comfort of your home. No need to worry about store hours or driving distances.
2. Variety: Many online shops have a wider selection of plants, including rare and exotic species that might be hard to find locally.
3. Delivery: Plants are delivered directly to your doorstep, often with care instructions.

Cons:

1. Shipping Stress: The shipping process can be stressful for plants, potentially causing damage or shock. This is especially true for more delicate species.
2. Lack of Immediate Help: While many online stores offer customer service, it’s not the same as having an expert physically inspect your plant and offer advice.
3. Wait Time: Unlike walking out of a store with a plant in hand, you’ll need to wait for your plants to arrive, which can take days to weeks. Instant gratification? Think again. 

Big Box Stores

Big box stores are large retail chains that sell a wide range of products, including houseplants, often at competitive prices. Think Home Depot, Lowes, or Walmart. 

Pros:

1. Affordability: Big box stores often offer plants at lower prices.
2. Accessibility: Big box stores are easy to find and readily accessible.

Cons:

1. Quality: Plants from big box stores may not receive the best care, leading to potential health issues. The quality of plants found anywhere is dependent on many factors such as the time the plant has spent in the store and the effort put into maintaining plants once they get to the store. 
2. Limited Expertise: Staff at big box stores may not have specialized knowledge about plants, which can be a drawback if you need specific advice or care tips.
3. Selection: While big box stores carry popular varieties, they often lack unique or rare plants. 

Independent Garden Centers

Independent garden centers are locally owned stores specializing in plants and gardening supplies, staffed by knowledgeable horticulturalists. An independent garden center is where I got my start working in the industry!

Pros:

1. Expertise: Independent garden centers are usually staffed by knowledgeable plant enthusiasts who can offer personalized advice and care tips.
2. Quality: Independent garden centers generally take better care of their plants, ensuring they are healthy and well-maintained.
3. Community: Shopping at local garden centers supports small businesses and fosters a sense of community.

Cons:

1. Price: Independent garden centers can be more expensive than big box stores or online plant shops. 
2. Limited Locations: Depending on where you live, finding an independent garden center might be more challenging. 

Navigating the world of houseplant shopping can seem daunting, but the most important thing is finding plants you love. Ultimately, the best place to buy your plants is wherever aligns with your needs and circumstances. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping, the budget-friendly options at big box stores, or the personalized touch of local garden centers, each route offers a unique journey into the rewarding world of houseplants. Happy plant shopping! 🌱