Frequently asked questions are always asked by many customers. Rather of having you sift through all of the comment sections seeking for answers, we’ve compiled a list of commonly (and infrequently) asked questions and our responses to them on this page. We are always delighted to assist you choose the perfect office plant or indoor houseplant.
Question About Indoor Houseplants
Why are all plant scientific names written in Latin?
That’s a wonderful question to address, and we created a comprehensive post about it recently called Understanding Plant Names. However, it is all down to a Swedish man named Carl Linne (or Carolus Linnaeus) who was born in 1707. Prior to Linnaeus, plants were given a brief description in Latin and that became their “scientific name,” which was a confused technique
Every plant has a scientific name, which is always written in Latin. Plant scientific names are based on an internationally recognized binomial nomenclature. A genus (in zoology and botany) or subgenus is the first portion of a scientific name (in microbiology). The second part is known as a species.
Linnaeus advocated that plants that are very closely related be given a genus designation. Because there might be numerous variants or species within a single genus, the species formed the second component of its name.
Why do Latin words continue to be used?
When Linnaeus was writing, Latin was the only language that the bulk of the globe could understand (at least out of those who were sufficiently educated and capable of reading and writing).
It must have taken a tremendous amount of time and effort to name practically every single plant on the planet in this manner. This, combined with the fact that Latin names are now so engrained and nearly universal, makes it seem improbable that they will ever be changed.
On our website, however, we mix it up and use the most “popular” name that people use in ordinary conversation, so you know what plant we’re referring to. That is sometimes the formal scientific name, but it is more typically a nickname.
Why are there so many distinct names for plants?
All plants, as previously established, have an official scientific latin name, but the majority also have many semi-official nicknames or Common Names. In general, variances in names can be broken down by country. For example, although some of you in Europe may know Sanservieria trifasciata laurentill as the Mother-in-Tongue, Law’s in America it is known as the Snake plant or Snakeskin plant.
Plants have so many diverse names because each one has a unique quality and usefulness. Each plant serves a specific function, which could be medicinal, food, industrial, or beautiful.
The common name is generally always chosen because it is similar to the plant being described in some manner. This is covered in further depth in our Understanding Plant Names page.
The thumb is black. Should I just give up?
Never, ever give up! We all have to start somewhere, and even the most seasoned houseplant owners will occasionally lose plants. Knowledge is the key to changing that black thumb (or hand, in some situations) into a green one. You’ll be successful if you know what your plants need. We completely guarantee that it is that simple.
What exactly is the different between a house plant and a garden plant?
There is no clear distinction, and a plant can easily be both! In truth, the majority of plants grown indoors all year come from regions where they are available as a garden plant all year.
A house plant, in general, will need to stay indoors for certain times of the year (for example, during the winter) in order to survive, and most individuals will have brought the plant particularly to live indoors.
The primary distinction between a house plant and a garden plant is that houseplants are grown indoors, whilst garden plants are grown outdoors. Indoor plants can be grown in your home, but not all of them can live long-term. Indoor plants require different environmental conditions than outdoor plants, such as moisture, temperature, and humidity.
The guarantee applies to all online and purchases within the first 30 days. We require photos as proof of damage and to help us improve our packaging process. You can also bring an online order into any of our shops for a replacement. Inventory online and in-store differs, so we recommend calling your closest shop in advance to ensure availability.
*Remember, it’s natural for live plants to show minor signs of stress after transit. You can help your plant perk up from its journey by gently pruning any foliage damaged during the shipping process, such as bent stems or yellow leaves. Removing damaged foliage gives your plant back energy for new, healthy growth. Need more plant care support? Find additional resources here.
How do I grow my indoor houseplants?
Each of our plant profiles includes a “propagation” section dedicated to this topic. However, for a more general understanding, read our Propagating Houseplants page.
Most of our small and medium plants ship in their nursery grow pot to allow for a safe ride to your doorstep. Added bonus: grow pots have drainage holes so you don’t have to be as mindful when you water. They also give you the ability to use decorative planters that don’t have holes—à la cachepot. The decorative planter serves as a saucer, catching excess water that drains out.
Houseplants are simple to care for, but they do require some maintenance. Learn about the basic needs of a healthy indoor plant, from light and soil to water and fertilizer, as well as how to cultivate house plants in containers and hanging baskets.
If you choose a mini or x-small plant that ships potted, and your planter does not have a drainage hole, know our team has taken extra precautions to make sure that your plant is potted properly with a generous layer of lava rocks before the potting mix, to aid in proper water management. Lava rocks allow excess water to pool at the bottom of a planter, away from your plant’s roots, thus reducing the risk of root rot.
Tip: when watering your plant, add no more than 1/3 of the planter’s volume in water, to avoid overwatering. Best practice is to feel the potting mix a few inches down first, and only water if the mix is dry.
My *insert plant name here* is dying; please help!
The best thing to do is go to our plant hub and check for the plant you need help with; it’s full of plant profiles and helpful care recommendations, so perhaps we can save it.
Plants need attention to thrive. They need water, light, and other things to survive in your home. The more time you devote to them, the better they will perform. The first step is to determine what kind of plant you have and then search our plant database for detailed care recommendations.
If the post doesn’t adequately answer your concerns, leave a comment below and one of the Our Home Plants Store.com team or (maybe) someone visiting the site will have a suggestion or two for you!
Question About The Website
COMMON QUESTION???
Do you have “X” indoor houseplant for sale?
We are frequently asked this question, and the answer is that we do not sell houseplants directly. We recommend that you look at our Where to Buy Houseplants post for some ideas on where to obtain some plants or visit our Shop Page.
Do You Require SEO / Website Rankings Improvement, For Example?
Thank you very much. No way, no how. We don’t need anything like this, so please don’t message us requesting because we no longer reply to such messages or comments.
How will my plant arrive?
Our number one priority is that our plants arrive happy and healthy. You never know what misadventures a plant can have on its route to your house! Our plants are shipped in their nursery grow pots to ensure a safe and comfortable journey to your house. Allowing plants to be delivered in their grow pot reduces the danger of stress and shock that could occur if they were potted in a new planter before leaving the greenhouse.
In our stores, we offer freshly potted plants for our customers. Plants potted in our stores travel less distance to your home, thus we like providing this service to local plant parents.
Do you allow guest posts?
Yes, on occasion.
Criteria for accepting guest posts
– Unique content that provides users with interesting and highly relevant information while adhering to the Ourhouseplants.com style.
We are looking for guest writers with a word count of 400 to 800. We’d love to hear from you if you have something to say and want to share it with our readers.
– The content should not be authored by robots (A.I.) or be a rehash of stuff we’ve already discussed.
What are the simplest indoor plants to care for?
Here are three plants to consider if you want an exceptionally low-maintenance plant that is practically hard to destroy. Zamioculcas is a modern and structural plant with highly glossy, feathery leaves that requires medium light and infrequent watering. Sansevieria, also known as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Tongue, Law’s is one of the strongest indoor plants, able to tolerate almost any light situation and with very little water. Succulents, such as cactus and aloe vera, require a lot of sunshine but very little water.
Plants are a natural way to add life and beauty to any space. Houseplants can help you, whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or simply want to clean up your home and make it feel more alive. The best aspect is that they are extremely easy to care for!
Why did you decide to build a website about indoor houseplants?
We adore indoor plants. And we know you do as well. That’s why we created this website: to assist you in finding the greatest indoor houseplants for your home, whether you want something small and easy to care for or something enormous and extra-special. Whether you want a plant that thrives in low light or one that requires a lot of suns, we’ve got you covered. We did all of the research so you didn’t have to! Come on over and have a look at our indoor houseplants—you’ll be pleased you did!
Plants have always been popular, and they have made their way indoors for as long as people have had homes. House plants may be found everywhere, from your own house to public buildings, and have gone through many distinct fashions and designs throughout the years. The plant landscape is continuously changing, making them as interesting as the latest fashion trends.
Regardless of shifting trends, types, and presentation, one thing remains constant: the majority of people like, find pleasure in, and derive happiness from plants. Perhaps this stems from an instinctive urge within us to cultivate our (mostly) green-leaved neighbors with whom we share the globe. Or maybe we just think they’re cool to have around.
Whatever the cause, we decided to create a website that puts everything together and provides house plant owners with information and recommendations. We want you to enjoy your activity to the best of your ability and take satisfaction in doing so; ideally, this website will assist you in doing so. So, to answer your question easily, we built this page for you.
Is it necessary to repot my plant after it arrives?
No, is the quick response. Allow your plant to adjust to its new surroundings first. Place the plant in the location where you intend to keep it. Allow it to settle in for two weeks.
Your plant will have adjusted after two weeks—your home’s light levels and temperature differ from those in a greenhouse!—and you can pot it into its ceramic planter if you like. Your plant’s earthenware planter may be wider than the plant’s nursery pot. If you decide to repot your plant, this is where it will grow. But keep in mind that this is entirely optional: as long as your plant has room to develop in its nursery grow pot and appears happy and healthy, you don’t need to do anything!
For some, the motto “plant care is self care” means leaving it in the nursery grow pot, but for others, it may mean getting your hands filthy and repotting. Follow your instincts! Don’t be scared to experiment with different approaches for different plants. Find out more here.
How do I pick the best indoor house plant?
Indoor plants can look fantastic, but before you get too attached to one, it’s crucial to understand the proper environmental conditions for it to thrive. How much light or shade can the plant stand? What amount of water will it require? Is there enough space for it to expand? What about draughts and air humidity? Take notice of the suggested light and water parameters in the each plant description to determine whether they match the environment you can give.
Choose a plant that will thrive in the lighting conditions of your home. Therefore, go for low-light houseplants if there isn’t much natural light in your home and high-light houseplants if there is plenty of natural light coming into your living room.
What kind of plant care assistance do you offer?
- Plant Maintenance Library: Look up the name of your plant to find simple care recommendations.
Tip: Forgotten the plant’s name? The name of your plant can be found in three places: your order confirmation email, the “Order History” part of your Account page, and the packing sheet that arrives with your shipment.
- Customer Service Representatives: Finally, you can contact our plant care professionals at any moment.
Can I assist you with your website?
Yes! Absolutely. Hello and welcome aboard! We appreciate contributions; if you wish to start small, leave comments in the comments area (good or bad we love them all). If someone asks you a question and you know the answer, tell them! Send us photos of your plants. If you wish to write a full-length article about anything that interests you, please contact us so that we can make it happen.
Do you have a cookie/privacy policy?
We certainly do! You can find it here.
Is the information on your website applicable to me?
Our website is designed to help you. Check out our extensive collection of indoor blooming plants, succulents and air plants, tropical houseplants, bonsai trees and pots, container gardens, and more! We also provide useful hints on how to care for your plants!
Can indoor plants be grown outside?
In mild areas, indoor plants can be cultivated outside. Plant your indoor plants outside only when they can thrive without shelter or protection, to safeguard them from freezing temperatures and other adverse weather conditions (usually 3-6 months). When relocating your indoor plants outdoors, keep in mind that they must be gradually adapted to their new surroundings. Because of the differences in light conditions between the inside and outdoors, most plants that thrive indoors will not thrive outside.
There are a few exceptions, including aloe vera, peace lily, and Boston ferns. All of these have evolved to low light levels and can withstand some sun. Plant care professionals often advise against growing them outside for more than six months per year because they require a season of rest to thrive.
My plant came healthy, but it isn’t doing well today. How should I proceed?
If your plant came healthy but is no longer flourishing, please contact us with images. We’d be delighted to assist you in determining what’s going on. Plants may require a few weeks to adjust to their new surroundings: your home or office. If your plant’s health continues to deteriorate during the first month, we will replace it for free as part of our 30-Day Customer Happiness Guarantee.
As a replacement, you can bring in an online order. Because inventory changes between online and in-store, we recommend calling ahead to ensure availability.
Don’t worry if you bought your plant more than 30 days ago. We have plenty of plant resources and specialists on hand to assist you.
How frequently should you water your indoor houseplants?
How often should you water your houseplants indoors? The answer is dependent on the type of plant, the potting mix, and whether the plant is tropical or exotic. However, there are some common guidelines to follow. Plant watering frequency varies according to season, with plants requiring more regular watering in the summer and less in the winter. A moisture meter is the best way to verify that your plants are getting enough water. The frequency with which you water your plants is determined by the type, size, and medium on which they are grown. Observing your plants is the best technique to calculate watering frequency.
Houseplants are one of the best ways to get some greenery into your house, and as we head into spring and summer, it’s more crucial than ever to keep your indoor plants hydrated. However, the amount of water your plants require might vary based on a variety of factors, such as soil moisture retention and light conditions. Fortunately, there are many different varieties of plants available at our nearby plant stores that can grow in any setting and thrive with minimal care.
Is it okay to use multipurpose compost for indoor plants?
Multipurpose compost is the ideal choice for indoor plants, as long as the maker has conditioned it to ensure that it is not too wet. The best way is to hydrate the soil in the pot several days before planting your plants, and then allow the soil to dry somewhat between waterings.
What should I do if my plant arrives damaged?
We promise that your plants will arrive happy and healthy. If they are not, we will replace them free of charge as part of our 30-Day Customer Happiness Guarantee. It is normal for live plants to display slight symptoms of stress during transit, however if the damage goes beyond minor blemishes*, please contact us within 30 days of arrival for a free replacement.
The warranty is valid for any online purchases made within the first 30 days. We need images to prove damage and to enhance our packaging process. You can also bring in an online order for a replacement to any of our stores. Because inventory changes between online and in-store, we recommend calling ahead to ensure availability.
*Remember that small signs of stress in live plants are normal after transit. You can assist your plant recover from its trip by carefully removing any foliage that was damaged during shipping, such as twisted stems or yellow leaves. Removing damaged foliage restores vitality to your plant for fresh, healthy development. Do you require additional plant care assistance? Additional resources are available here.
What type of soil should I use for my indoor plants?
The soil in which your indoor plants are planted has a significant impact on their health. By using the proper soil, you can keep your plants healthy. When purchasing dirt, look for organic potting mix or garden soil. Peat moss and vermiculite, perlite, coir or coco coir, and composted bark are the most common “organic” potting mixes. The simplest way to identify which type of ingredient is best for your plants is to look at what it says on the package of a certain brand or one you want to test.
Make use of houseplant-specific soil. These are often light, porous soils that allow for efficient drainage, circulation, and aeration of the roots. These soils can be used in place of or in addition to the potting mixes that many people use.
What is the best way to get rid of bugs on indoor plants?
Looking for specific indicators of pests on indoor plants is the easiest way to get rid of them. Indoor plants frequently develop tiny white serpentine tracks or holes in the leaves and stems. These are typically caused by bugs that consume leaves. Caterpillars, scale insects, aphids, mites, and mealybugs are among those that consume fragile plant components.
Many garden pests can be effectively controlled with a decent plant spray. Dormant oil is the finest liquid to use because it suffocates the bugs swiftly and effectively. As soon as you notice insects on your plants, spray them with dormant oil regularly to keep the population under control.
An insecticide is the most effective technique to get rid of bugs in indoor plants. Because indoor plants are cultivated so close to the house, they are more vulnerable to pests ranging from fungus gnats and aphids to spider mites. By using a pesticide from the start, you can lessen your chances of being infested. Some plants, such as aloe vera, are inherently resistant to pests such as spider mites but are vulnerable to other insects and fungi.
Why is there no drainage hole in my planter?
Our earthenware planters are available with and without drainage holes.
Most of our small and medium plants are shipped in their nursery grow pots to ensure a safe journey to your door. Grow pots feature drainage holes, so you don’t have to be as careful while watering. They also allow you to utilize ornamental planters without holes, a la cachepot. The beautiful planter acts as a saucer, collecting any excess water that drains.
If you choose a mini or x-small plant that comes potted and your planter does not have a drainage hole, know that our team has taken extra efforts to ensure that your plant is potted properly with a generous coating of lava rocks before the potting mix to aid in efficient water management. Lava rocks allow excess water to collect at the bottom of a planter, away from your plant’s roots, minimizing the chance of root rot.
To avoid overwatering, put no more than 1/3 of the planter’s volume in water while watering. It’s best to feel the potting mix a few inches down first, and only water if it’s dry.
When and how should I repot my houseplants?
Plants require potting soil. In general, the container size is proportional to the average period between repottings. Smaller plants in fast-draining soil require more frequent repotting (every two years or sooner) than larger plants in heavier mediums. When the roots of your plant have outgrown the drainage holes, or when new growth begins to bend downward instead of up due to a lack of space in the pot, repot it. It is advisable not to leave an overgrown container for an extended period: Overwatering bacteria can enter the root ball through these openings and infect your plant if it stays wet for too long after repotting, so don’t put off repotting for too long!
Which plants are the most effective in improving air quality?
Houseplants are a wonderful way to improve the quality of your indoor air. Indoor houseplants may collect chemical particles from the air and convert them to oxygen, making our air cleaner and healthier. Some houseplants are more effective than others at eliminating toxins from your home, but the following plants are among the finest indoor houseplants for air purification: Spider plant: The spider plant is widespread and simple to cultivate. It’s also one of the most effective purifiers because several can be placed together in a room with windows. (See Plants That Filter Air for more information.)
Indoor plants can aid in the purification of the air in your house. They improve the quality of life of individuals who live there by eliminating and neutralizing toxins, lowering stress and tension, increasing mood, and promoting healthy sleep.
What if I want to make a huge purchase?
Please fill out our contact form for bulk orders (more than 25) or corporate inquiries.
What are the best plants for the office?
Indoor plants improve the look and feel of your workspace. They contribute to a more comfortable working atmosphere and can make an office appear more peaceful and inviting. Not all indoor plants, however, are made equal. Some plants are better than others at purifying the air, increasing oxygen supply, and removing carbon dioxide from your office.
Indoor office plants that give shade, oxygen, and other benefits of being surrounded by greenery are the best for improving air quality and reducing pollution. Many offices contain a plethora of green plants, and most are extremely demanding in terms of care and maintenance.
Our best office plants include a variety of indoor houseplants that are great for adding freshness and color to any room. These plants are also extremely low maintenance and simple to care for, so they won’t cause any problems during your hectic day.
What are the greatest indoor plants for bathrooms?
Bathrooms are notoriously difficult to decorate. This is because many people do not have adequate space for a significant plant collection. However, certain indoor plants may thrive in small spaces. The snake plant, commonly known as mother-in-tongue, in-laws, is the best indoor plant for bathrooms.
This is a low-maintenance plant that may thrive in almost any environment. It prefers indirect sunlight and requires minimal water. The aloe vera plant is another wonderful option. This succulent requires little attention and can flourish in most locations that receive at least three hours of direct sunlight per day. It also produces lovely flowers that look lovely in any setting!
Which plant should I put in my bedroom?
Consider English ivy if you want a plant that is also a natural air filter. This plant is particularly effective in removing formaldehyde and benzene from the environment. It is also known for its ability to eliminate other hazardous compounds such as ammonia and trichloroethylene.
Consider succulents if you want something with an unusual shape. Succulents are virtually indestructible, making them ideal if you don’t have much time to care for them. They are also beautiful in any room in the house!
What payment methods do you provide?
We accept all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Zelle and Bitcoin, which allows you to pay in installments.
Why does my plant look different than the one on the website?
If your plant differs from the one on the internet, it is most likely due to how it is produced. Indoor plants are cultivated in our store under controlled conditions, which means they are watered and cared for regularly. As a result, the plant appears robust and cheerful, with little or no signs of stress.
When you bring your new plant home, it will be placed in a completely different environment. After a few days, you might even believe your plant is “dead”! But this is not the case—your plant is simply adjusting to its new surroundings.
Color, texture, finish, and size will vary with live plants and small batch pottery. While we make every effort to accurately display our potted plants, there may be minor changes from what is seen online.
Does Home Plant Store sell products from other brands?
We stock a variety of products from independent creators and brands who match our design, values, and feel. If your product is from a third-party seller or artisan, the brand’s name will appear on the product’s page beneath the product name. These items are not eligible for discounts.
Some of these items are shipped directly from the merchant. Although you will not receive tracking information for such items, you can contact our Customer Happiness team for assistance with all orders.
We only accept returns on third-party vendor products if the item arrived damaged. If your order was damaged in transit, please complete our contact form and we will respond within two business days. The form guarantees that we have everything we need to assist you as soon as possible, including images.
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