How to Buy Houseplants

• Skill: Beginners should start by purchasing hardy houseplants, such as succulents, that require minimal to moderate care. Experienced plant growers may want to try more unusual or challenging plants.
• Budget: Growing houseplants doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby. You can buy most common houseplants for fairly reasonable prices. If you’re looking to purchase rare or exotic plants, though, prices can rise dramatically. It’s worth the time to compare prices from several sources before you buy.
• Light and temperature: Buy only plants that are suited to the light and temperature conditions of the areas of your home where you expect to put them.
• Space and décor: The size and shape of a plant will determine how it looks—and whether it fits—in your home. Always consider not only the current size and shape of the plant but also how quickly the plant grows and how large and sprawling it can become.

Where to Buy Houseplants

• Local nurseries and greenhouses: A good source for a wide array of plants, from common to exotic. Plants from these stores are usually well cared for but, because they’ve been grown under ideal conditions, may require delicate handling while adjusting to your home.
• Grocery stores: The most convenient source. These stores generally have hardy, reasonably priced houseplants, though variety is often limited.
• Online and mail-order nurseries: A good source of exotic plants. You can browse the print or online catalog and have the plant mailed to you. Find a reputable merchant and check their return and shipping policies before purchasing because shipped plants can arrive damaged or diseased.

How to Choose a Houseplant

• Leaves: Look for healthy leaves and signs of new growth. Avoid plants with dry, brown, or yellow leaves or signs of disease or insect infestation (see Common Houseplant Diseases and Common Houseplant Insects).
• Roots: Avoid plants with blackened or rotten-smelling roots, as well as plants with roots that seem too compacted or that are coming out of the pot.
• Soil: Touch the soil to see how wet it is. Slightly moist soil indicates regular, even watering. Avoid plants with bone-dry soil (except for cacti), as they may have been neglected.
• Flowers: Check that flowering plants have healthy-looking flowers and a number of new buds.

How to Transport and Acclimate Your Plant

1. Get it wrapped: Before leaving the store, make sure the salesperson has wrapped your plant well in paper or plastic. Wrapping prevents chilling in winter and leaf damage in all seasons.
2. Protect it in the car: Secure the plant in a box or snug place to prevent tipping during the ride home. Don’t put plants in a hot trunk or leave them in a cold car.
3. Quarantine and acclimatize: Once home, keep your new plant away from other plants in case it has a pest problem or disease. Keep the plant in a warm spot, away from direct sunlight or cold drafts. Move it to its permanent location after a few weeks.