
I've been collecting houseplants for years now and I won't lie, it's addictive. I can't help myself when I go into the garden center or even the supermarket – a new plant has to come home with me. But, after experiencing many failures in these ventures, I now have a list of red flags when buying houseplants I always look out for, including how much the plant has been watered, what state it's in, and even where it's located in the store.
Even if you finally found the indoor plant you've been searching everywhere for, your money is best saved if it has been severely overwatered, is pest-ridden, or has too many yellowing leaves. Don't get me wrong, I've successfully saved a few mistreated houseplants before, but sometimes the situation is too far gone – especially if you want instant healthy greenery in your home and don't have the time to nurture a plant back to life.