Bringing home your first houseplant (or your fiftieth) is exciting—but with so many options, how do you know which one is right for your space, your lifestyle, and your skill level?
This guide is here to walk you through every step of the buying journey. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, we’ll help you choose the perfect plant for your light, climate, and care habits—plus teach you how to spot healthy plants and avoid common pitfalls.
Let’s go plant shopping—smarter.
Start with Your Space: Assess Before You Buy
Before you grab that gorgeous fiddle leaf fig or tempting pothos cutting, take a moment to look around your home.
Here’s what to check:
Light availability: Is your space bright, medium, or low light? South-facing windows get the most sun, while north-facing windows offer low light. East and west are medium.
Humidity levels: Bathrooms and kitchens tend to be more humid—great for ferns and calatheas. Bedrooms and living rooms might be drier.
Temperature consistency: Drafts, cold windowsills, or hot radiators can all affect plant health.
Space and layout: Do you want a tabletop plant? A tall floor plant? Something to trail from a shelf? Think in terms of where and how the plant will live.
🪴 Tip: Use your smartphone’s compass or a free light meter app to test your lighting conditions before you shop.
Match Plants to Your Lifestyle
It’s not just about your home—it’s about you. Pick plants that fit your habits and experience level.
For Beginners (aka “Set It and Forget It”):
Snake Plant
ZZ Plant
Pothos
Spider Plant
These plants thrive on neglect and tolerate a range of conditions.
For Intermediate Growers:
Peace Lily
Rubber Plant
Dracaena
Monstera
They need a bit more care, but they’re still forgiving.
For Advanced Plant Parents:
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Calathea
Orchids
Bonsai
These beauties are worth the effort—but only if you’re ready to commit.
👀 Ask yourself: Will I remember to water once a week? Do I travel often? Do I enjoy a plant with personality, or one that minds its own business?
Consider Your Goals: Function + Feeling
Why are you buying a houseplant in the first place? Your answer helps narrow your choices.
| Goal | Best Plant Types |
|---|---|
| Clean air | Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Spider Plant |
| Statement decor | Monstera, Rubber Tree, Fiddle Leaf Fig |
| Compact for small spaces | Fittonia, Baby Tears, Mini Succulents |
| Hanging or trailing vibes | Pothos, String of Pearls, Philodendron |
| Pet-friendly home | Calathea, Peperomia, Parlor Palm |
| Boosting mood and focus | Ferns, Lavender, English Ivy |
🏡 You don’t need to know everything yet—just get curious about what you want your plants to do for you.
Shop Smart: Online vs. In-Store
Both have their perks! Here’s what to know:
Buying In-Store
Pros:
You can inspect the plant’s health up close
It’s easier to check size and fullness
Instant gratification (you bring it home today!)
Watch for:
Yellowing or mushy leaves
Signs of pests (sticky residue, webbing, or little bugs)
Overly dry or soggy soil
Buying Online
Pros:
Bigger selection, including rare and specialty plants
Delivered straight to your door
Great if you live in a “plant desert” area
Watch for:
Shipping conditions (heat packs in winter?)
Reviews and seller reputation
Return or replacement policy
🌱 Look for retailers who specialize in plants—not big box stores—when shopping online. Healthy, well-packed plants are worth the extra buck.
How to Pick a Healthy Plant (In Person or Online)
Here’s your mini health checklist for buying a plant:
✅ Foliage looks full and vibrant (no major leaf damage)
✅ No signs of pests (check undersides of leaves)
✅ Soil isn’t bone-dry or swampy
✅ Roots aren’t bursting out of the pot (unless it’s a rootbound plant like a snake plant, where this can be okay)
✅ No weird smells (yes, this matters!)
🕵️ Pro tip: Bring a damp paper towel and gently wipe a leaf—excess dust or sticky residue can indicate neglect or pests.
Plant Pairing: Aesthetic + Functional Combos
Want your houseplants to play well together? These are combos that not only look good together—but thrive in the same environment.
Low-Light Lovers:
Snake Plant + ZZ Plant + Aglaonema
High-Humidity Squad:
Calathea + Boston Fern + Peperomia
Bright + Sunny Buddies:
Jade Plant + Aloe Vera + Ponytail Palm
Modern Minimalist Vibes:
Rubber Tree + Monstera + White Pot Covers
🌿 Try grouping plants with similar light and watering needs for easier care—and better visual flow.
Bonus: What to Buy With Your New Plant
Set yourself up for success by grabbing these essentials while you’re at it:
Pot with drainage holes (or a decorative cache pot)
Matching saucer or tray to protect furniture
Moisture meter if you’re new to watering
Watering can or squeeze bottle
Mild liquid fertilizer for the growing season
🧼 Don’t forget: A clean start is best. Always wash your new pot and inspect the plant before introducing it to your other green friends.
Bringing It Home: What To Do Next
Quarantine new plants for a few days away from your collection (just in case of pests)
Acclimate to light gradually, especially if they came from a dark store shelf
Hold off on repotting for a few weeks unless absolutely necessary
Observe and enjoy—watch for signs of happiness (new leaves!) or stress (drooping, yellowing)
🎉 And most of all—enjoy the journey! Every plant you bring home is an opportunity to learn, grow, and green up your space.
Final Thought: It’s Okay to Start Small
You don’t need to buy five plants at once. (Though we totally get the temptation.)
Start with one or two, learn their rhythms, and build your confidence. With the right info and a little practice, you’ll be growing your own indoor jungle in no time.
Let us help you every step of the way—check out our [Houseplant Care Basics Hub] for watering, lighting, repotting, and beyond. You’ve got this, plant parent! 🌿