Indoor plants a growing trend

AN indoor plant craze is building momentum as plant enthusiasts fork out big bucks to make their homes the envy of the street.

There are almost 28 million photos on Instagram with the hashtag “plants”, and the latest Nursery & Garden Industry Australia data shows nearly two billion plants were sold in Australia in 2017-2018. It can be costly keeping up green appearances so here’s how to score the best value.

Plant lover Ana Menzel, 30, said a nursery wasn’t always the best place to buy plants. “I check out local op shops and garage sales,” she said.

“There can be amazing varieties there for ridiculously cheap prices.

“If I do shop in a nursery I check out the clearance section. I currently have 52 indoor plants; six months ago I had over 80 but moved some outside.”

Ms Menzel said people could get free plants by propagating ones they already had. “The most I’ve spent is $50 on a Pilea – it had multiple babies I could propagate so I was technically saving,” she said. “Clip branches, put them in a jar by a window and weeks later they’ll have roots to plant.”

Pop-up sales can also help you save. The Jungle Collective – a group that hosts weekend plant sale events attracting thousands of people – sources plants in bulk from growers.

“This results in savings which are passed on to customers,” said cofounder Josh O’Meara. “Our pop-up format minimises overheads.

“Our rare plants tend to be considerably cheaper than online markets like eBay or Facebook.”

Bunnings horticulturalist Mill Wallasvaara said shoppers should purchase plants that provided a 12month warranty, in line with plant quality standards.

“If for any reason customers are not happy with their purchase within 12 months they can return their plant, along with proof of purchase, to be provided a refund,” she said.

Crazy Indoor Plant People Australia (CIPPA), a Facebook group with more than 66,000 members, allows people to swap plants, gain advice and discover discounts.

CIPPA founder Kristy

Robertshaw said to ensure plant longevity, people should think about their lifestyle first.

“Consider whether you travel often – you may need something with lower care,” she said.