Of course, falling in love at first sight with a plant works, but indoor plants are the opposite of an inert decorative element and, before taking one home to live with forever in good times and difficulties, it is worth stop for a few seconds and remember some tips to choose well.
When you are at the florist or nursery, in addition to observing its general appearance, look at the proportion between the pot and the size of the plant. This is the advice offered by expert José González (@jardinesconvida) and we explain why you should do it.
The morphology of the plant, the first sign of health
iStock
The appearance of the plant is a mirror of its well-being. A good choice will always have firm branches, distributed evenly and without cuts or fractures.
Plants with twisted stems, loose branches, or untidy growth may have suffered stress in the nursery.
In turn, the foliage should look green and homogeneous, free of brown or yellowish spots, dry edges or black spots that usually indicate irrigation problems, fungi or incipient pests.
Choose a copy that looks natural, harmonious and vigorous It is a guarantee that you will adapt better to your new environment.
The proportion between plant and pot
iStock
As José González, landscaper and founder of Jardines con Vida, one of the clearer signs to distrust of a specific specimen is to see a very voluminous plant in a small pot.
This usually means that it takes too long without transplant and, consequently, its roots are compressed, which slows growth and weakens the plant. Although an immediate transplant to a larger pot could help, it is also true that you will not take home the healthiest plant. If you have the option, take a plant with the pot that corresponds to its moment of development.
A proportional pot ensures that the root system develops normally. If in doubt, just gently lift the pot to check that the roots do not protrude in excess nor do they circle around the container. A plant with balanced roots is a safe investment.
Other warning signs in the nursery
iStock Photo.ChamilleWhite
Before choosing a plant to take home, it is worth checking carefully. Plants with soft stems, drooping leaves or an excessively moist substrate are often overwatered, which makes them vulnerable to fungi and rot. On the other hand, an excessively dry substrate can also indicate abandonment.
Check the underside of the leaves
Another important alert are the pests themselves: you have to look at the underside of the leaves in search of white dots, sticky spots or small cobwebs, which are usually a sign of an aphid, mealybug or red spider. It is best to avoid any specimen that shows these marks.
Look at the condition of the substrate and drainage
It is not enough to look at the leaves. The substrate must be aerated, without unpleasant odor and with good drainage. If it is caked or there is a bad smell, the root system is probably damaged.
It is also important to check that the pot has drainage holes. Without this outlet, the accumulation of water can end up damaging the plant in the short term.
Simple details like these can be essential to guarantee the survival of the specimen.
More tips to make the right purchase
Beyond appearance, the criterion must be practical. Ask yourself beforehand where the plant will be in your house, if it will have enough light, if it will be exposed to drafts or near a radiator. Each species has your own demands and, if they are not met, it will end up weakening.
If you are a beginnerit is advisable to opt for resistant species that tolerate lack or excess of light, neglected watering, and closed indoor conditions. We recommend species such as sansevieria or succulents in general. You will also find other easy-to-care plants ideal for fill with greenery your home in our free ebook indoor plants.
Do not transplant immediately after purchasing!
If you buy a plant in the right size pot, you can afford to wait a couple of weeks before transplanting it. During this time, place it in a bright place, avoid sudden changes in temperature and observe its evolution.
Next, evaluate whether you really need more space for your roots. This initial adaptation will be the key for it to grow strong and healthy.