How to Spot a Healthy Houseplant Before You Buy
So there I was, standing in the garden centre aisle, latte in one hand, Monstera leaf in the other, wondering: Do we choose plants… or do plants choose us?
Because let’s be honest—buying a houseplant is basically like dating. You’re looking for something cute, thriving, and with long-term potential… not something that’s going to ghost you (ahem, die) after two weeks.
So how do you know if that leafy green beauty is the one? Here’s the plant-lover’s guide to spotting a healthy match before you take it home.
1. The Leaf Test
Think of leaves as the Instagram filter of a plant—they’ll tell you everything.
- Shiny, vibrant, perky? You’ve got a winner.
- Yellowing, browning, or crispy? Red flag.
- Spotty, holey, or chewed? Translation: pests have been here before you.
2. The Undercover Check
Turn those leaves over like you’re reading the fine print on a contract. Tiny webs, sticky patches, or suspicious white fluff? That’s not “character,” it’s pests. And nobody has time to play bug-whisperer on day one.
3. Strong Stems = Strong Relationship
Floppy, mushy stems? Walk away. Firm, upright, ready-for-anything stems? That’s commitment material. Bonus points if you spot fresh baby leaves—it’s the plant equivalent of saying, I’ve got a bright future ahead of me.
4. Soil Secrets
Scoop a glance at the soil. If it smells like last week’s leftovers, it’s a no. If it’s bone-dry and cracked, someone’s been neglectful. What you want is soil that looks fresh and healthy—like it’s had just the right amount of care (not overbearing, not ghosting).
5. Roots: The Real Tea
If you can (and the shop assistant doesn’t give you side-eye), peek at the roots. White or light tan roots = thriving. Black, mushy roots = heartbreak waiting to happen. And if the roots are bursting out of the pot like they’re trying to escape? That plant is already crying out for a bigger home.
6. Shape Matters (and So Does Energy)
You want a plant that looks full and balanced, not sad and lopsided. It should radiate good vibes—because yes, plants have energy, and yes, you’ll feel it the moment you lock eyes across the garden centre.
The Takeaway
When it comes to plants—and maybe even love—never settle for “meh.” Trust your instincts. If it doesn’t look happy on the shelf, it’s not suddenly going to become Prince Charming in your living room.
Choose healthy, thriving plants from the start, and your indoor jungle will reward you with beauty, growth, and maybe even a little drama (but the good kind).
