How to Choose Healthy Houseplants at the Nursery

How to Choose Healthy Houseplants at the Nursery

Beautiful foliage can hide root problems. Before buying, ask to gently slide the plant out of its pot.

What to Look For

• Roots: Firm, wiry, white/tan—enough to hold the root ball together. No black, mushy roots.
• Soil: Light, airy, with perlite (white volcanic pellets). Not heavy clay, rocks, or excessive fertilizer pellets.
• Drainage: Pot must have holes and a tray. Avoid self‑watering pots.

Watering at Home

Use a bamboo skewer inserted to the bottom. Water only when the skewer shows moisture only in the bottom 1/3. Empty the tray after 30 minutes. This prevents the root rot that ruins so many nursery plants.

Distilled water is wise for Dracaenas (fluoride sensitive).