5 Key Factors to Consider Before Bringing Home a New Plant

Are you thinking about adding a new plant to your space? While it's easy to be drawn to a vibrant leaf pattern or a trendy houseplant, choosing the right one goes beyond aesthetics. A thriving plant depends on more than just its looks—understanding its care requirements is key to long-term success. Before you make your next plant purchase, consider these five essential factors to ensure your greenery flourishes in its new home.

1. Understand Your Space’s Lighting Conditions

"Light is the first of painters. There is no object so foul that intense light will not make it beautiful." – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Light is the most crucial factor in determining a plant’s well-being. While some plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight, others prefer low-light conditions. Before selecting a plant, take note of your space—does it receive full sun, indirect light, or mostly shade?

High-Light Plants: Succulents, Crotons, Fiddle Leaf Figs-Medium-Light Plants: Pothos, Peace Lily, Snake Plant
Low-Light Plants: ZZ Plant, Cast Iron Plant, Chinese Evergreen

Matching your plant’s needs with your available light ensures it will adapt and thrive rather than struggle for survival.

2. Consider Watering & Humidity Needs

Not all plants have the same thirst! Some, like cacti and succulents, prefer dry soil, while others, like ferns and calatheas, require consistent moisture.

Low-Water Plants: Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Jade Plant
Moderate-Water Plants: Monstera, Pothos, Philodendron
High-Water Plants: Ferns, Calatheas, Alocasias

Additionally, consider the humidity levels in your home. Tropical plants flourish in higher humidity, making them better suited for bathrooms or kitchens, while desert plants prefer drier environments.

3. Check the Growth Potential & Space Requirements

That small fiddle leaf fig at the nursery? It could grow into a six-foot tree in just a few years. Understanding a plant’s mature size prevents the common mistake of choosing one that will quickly outgrow your space.

Compact Plants for Small Spaces: Snake Plant, Peperomia, Spider Plant
Larger Statement Plants: Fiddle Leaf Fig, Rubber Plant, Bird of Paradise

Consider whether the plant will need staking, pruning, or repotting over time, and ensure you have the space to accommodate its full potential.

4. Know the Soil & Drainage Needs

Soil isn’t just dirt—it’s the foundation for your plant’s health. Some plants need well-draining, sandy soil, while others thrive in rich, moisture-retaining soil.

Fast-Draining Soil (For Succulents & Cacti): Sand, perlite, pumice
Moisture-Retaining Soil (For Tropical Plants): Peat, coco coir, compost

Additionally, always check that your pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot, one of the most common killers of houseplants.

5. Assess Your Lifestyle & Commitment Level

Not all plants require the same level of attention. If you travel frequently or tend to forget about watering, opt for hardy, low-maintenance plants.

Best Low-Maintenance Plants for Busy Plant Parents: ZZ Plant, Snake Plant, Pothos
High-Maintenance Plants That Need More Care: Calatheas, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Orchids

Choosing plants that fit your lifestyle ensures you’ll enjoy them without stress or frustration.

When selecting a new plant, don’t just go for the prettiest one—match it to your home’s conditions, your lifestyle, and its care needs. By considering light, water, space, soil, and maintenance, you’ll set yourself up for a successful and rewarding plant-parenting experience.

Need advice on which plant to get for your home? Schedule a consultation.

Not sure how to take care of the plants you have? Download our free plant care guides.

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