Where Can You Buy Rare & Hard To Find Houseplants?

[Patrick Coleman]

If you're on the hunt for rare plants, where do you turn? Let's dig into the soil of the three primary options: online nurseries like Plant In The Box, big-box retailers, and boutique local nurseries. This whimsical but fact-based guide will unearth the hidden truths of each.

Online Houseplant Nurseries​

Pros:​

• Convenience: Shop from the comfort of home.
• Selection: Extensive variety of unique plants.
• Subscription Options: Regular delights with monthly mystery subscriptions boxes not found in stores.
• Expert Care Guides: Expert care and growing tips tailored to each plant.

Cons:​

• Cost: Can be higher than buying in-store due to the cost of shipping that's charged or built into the price of the houseplant.
• Delivery Risks: The possibility of damage during shipping. Thankfully, some online retailers, like Plant In The Box, offer a replacement option should your new plant babies arrive damaged.

Big Box Retailers​

Pros:​

• Accessibility: Stores widely available across the regions even in rural areas of the United States.
• Pricing: Often more affordable when you can find a restock of rare indoor houseplants.

Cons:​

• Quality: Sometimes lacks care and expert knowledge.
• Selection: Limited range of rare and unique plants.
• Health: Unfortunately, due to the nature of the volume sales approach, bacterial infections, fungal growth, and pests tend to be more common.

Boutique Local Nurseries​

Pros:​

• Quality: Typically high-quality plants sourced locally to your location.
• Expert Knowledge: Staff often more knowledgeable about rare plants.

Cons:​

• Price: Can be more expensive.
• Availability: Limited to local areas, and selections may vary.

From the ease and vast selection of online nurseries to the accessibility of big-box retailers and the quality of boutique local nurseries, each option has its distinct benefits and drawbacks. Choose what's right for you!