As a gardening editor, it’s a given that I buy a lot of plants. In particular, I'm always on the look out for the best places to source quality and unique houseplants, and at prices that won't blow my monthly budget out of the water.
Now, Amazon might not be the first place you think of when it comes to buying houseplants, but I’m here to tell you there are indoor plant gems to be found a plenty – if you know how to shop them.
There are some definite 'green flags' to watch out for, however, to make sure you don't end up disappointed and with a wilted, yellowing or dead plant arriving on your doorstep. Luckily, us houseplant addicts on the Homes & Gardens team are well versed in picking the right plants online. Here's what we know:
4 'green flags' to watch for when buying houseplants on Amazon
- Watch for any houseplants that have travelled from abroad. Travelling long distances via air or sea freight will mean your plant has not had access to natural light and fresh water for a week or more. Instead, look for US houseplant store fronts, such as Costa Farms and recognised brands, including Altman Plants and American Plant Exchange, all of which supply houseplants grown and nurtured in US nurseries.
- Make sure they are definitely real. Amazon sells a huge array of fake plants, and some of them look convincingly real. Double check the description mentions a 'live plant' before you commit to purchase.
- Don't begin your search blind and be swayed by a claim of zero maintenance, adds our gardening content editor, Thom Rutter. 'No plant is truly zero maintenance and houseplants are fussy,' he says. 'I would always advise consulting gardening websites first, finding out what plants are right for your home (thinking about temperature, light levels and location), and then search Amazon once you know what you know a bit more about what you are looking for.'
- Look out for negative reviews. If a plant has arrived in a less-than-perfect condition, chances are whoever ordered it will have left a negative review. Likewise, the number of positive reviews about a particular seller or plant (especially if it's something a bit more unusual) will mean you can buy confidently.
The benefits of buying houseplants on Amazon
You can find some incredible and unusual plants on Amazon, that you would struggle to get in the garden center or at your local store, as our content editor, Tenielle Jordison, explains:
'Purchasing houseplants online is something I’m no stranger to. As much as I love visiting a local houseplant shop or garden center, sometimes you can’t always find such unusual houseplants in person,' she says.
'So, I turn to the internet when I’m looking for something specific to add to my indoor jungle, and I have to say I am amazed by the selection on Amazon.
‘Just look at this four-foot-tall braided money tree on Amazon. Currently on sale for $60, it’s an absolute bargain considering its maturity and height. Or, to really get your money’s worth, this pack of six really special varieties of ficus plants on sale for $80 on Amazon is truly a steal – it could cost just half the price for one variegated rubber plant elsewhere.'
I completely agree; Amazon is great value for houseplants, and especially if you buy in bulk. I absolutely love the trays of mini succulents, such as these from Altman Plants on Amazon, and have bought these several times. They are perfect for creating your own succulent styling ideas, adding to terrariums, or potting up and giving as cute hostess gifts in beautiful pots.
Succulents and cacti have the added bonus of being fine without a good watering for weeks, so they are guaranteed to travel well.
Finally, it is crucial to unpack and check your plant straight away and kick-start your summer houseplant care regime as soon as it arrives.
‘From my experience of ordering houseplants online, it’s key to get them unpackaged, potted up, and watered as soon as they arrive,' says Tenielle.
'Make sure to also choose a spot in your home that receives plenty of bright light to help them settle in well.
‘Of course, there may be some leaves that look a little worse for wear from transit, so once your houseplant has settled in, prune away any damaged foliage. Try not to do this too soon, however, as pruning alongside recent relocation may result in a bit of plant shock and stunted growth.’
A parlor palm will add a delicately tropical touch to a room with its airy fronds. You can select from a range of pots to go with your plant, plus you have different size options when you buy from Costa Farms.
