🌿 Tips on How To Select The Right Plants

Choosing the right plant isn’t just about picking the prettiest one at the garden center (though we’ve all done that). The secret to growing happy, healthy plants is picking ones that actually fit your space and lifestyle.

Whether you’re starting your first plant collection or adding to your jungle, here are some simple tips to help you select the right plants from the start.

🌞 1. Know Your Light

This is the #1 factor in plant happiness. Different plants need different amounts of light.

• Bright, direct light – Think succulents, cacti, and fiddle leaf figs

• Bright, indirect light – Pothos, peace lilies, rubber plants

• Low light – Snake plant, ZZ plant, cast iron plant

Tip: If you’re not sure what kind of light you have, observe where the sun hits throughout the day, or use a light meter app on your phone.

🪴 2. Consider Your Lifestyle

Be honest with yourself—how much time do you really have (or want) to care for plants?

• Busy or forgetful? Go for low-maintenance plants like ZZ plant, snake plant, or pothos.

• Love a routine? Try plants that need regular watering like ferns or calatheas.

• Love a challenge? Try orchids, bonsai, or fiddle leaf figs.

🏠 3. Think About Space & Size

Before you bring home that gorgeous giant monstera, make sure you have the space for it!

• Small spaces: Try compact plants like peperomia, air plants, or baby rubber plants.

• Tabletops & shelves: Go for trailing plants like pothos or string of pearls.

• Floor space: Tall plants like dracaena, fiddle leaf fig, or palms make great statement pieces.

Bonus: Think vertical! Hanging plants can add greenery without taking up floor space.

🌡️ 4. Match Plants to Your Environment

Some plants love warmth and humidity. Others prefer cooler, drier air. Choose plants that fit your home’s natural conditions.

• Dry air? Go for succulents, sansevieria, or rubber plants.

• Humid bathrooms or kitchens? Ferns, calatheas, or peace lilies will love it.

• Cooler spots? Try ivy, Chinese evergreen, or cast iron plant.

🐾 5. Check for Pet & Kid Safety

Some plants are toxic to pets and small children if ingested. If that’s a concern, choose non-toxic options like:

• Pet-safe plants: Spider plant, areca palm, baby rubber plant, Boston fern

• Avoid: Pothos, philodendron, peace lily, sago palm

🧠 6. Read the Tag (Or Do a Quick Search)

The little tag that comes with your plant actually has helpful info! Look for:

• Light needs

• Watering frequency

• Size at maturity

• Toxicity warnings

A quick Google search or plant app can give you even more care details before you buy.

✅ 7. Start Small and Grow From There

It’s easy to get carried away (plants are addictive, let’s be real). Start with one or two easy-care varieties, and build your collection as you gain confidence.

🌱 Final Thought: The Right Plant = The Happy Plant

The best plant for you is one that fits your space, matches your lifestyle, and brings you joy. With a little planning, your home can become a personal oasis filled with green goodness that’s easy to care for—and fun to grow.