Plant stores are havens for green thumbs and aspiring plant parents alike. They’re filled with lush foliage, vibrant blooms, and the promise of new life. But while these spaces are welcoming, there are certain behaviors that can make life difficult for employees—and even harm the plants themselves. Over the years, I’ve chatted with countless plant store staff members, and they’ve shared some surprising (and sometimes cringe-worthy) stories about customer habits that drive them up the wall.
If you want to be a responsible, respectful plant shopper, here are nine things you should never do in a plant store—straight from the mouths of employees. Let’s dig in!
1. Don’t Touch Every Single Plant
Why It’s a Problem
Plants are delicate living organisms, and excessive handling can damage their leaves, stems, or roots. Plus, frequent touching increases the risk of spreading pests or diseases between plants.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Admire plants visually rather than physically. If you must touch, ask permission first and handle them gently.
- Avoid poking your fingers into the soil unless instructed—it disrupts root systems and creates unnecessary mess.
2. Don’t Ask for Discounts on Already Affordable Plants
Why It’s a Problem
Small plant shops often operate on tight margins, especially when selling affordable starter plants. Haggling over prices can put undue pressure on businesses trying to stay afloat.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Support local businesses by paying full price for reasonably priced items.
- If budget is an issue, look for sales, clearance sections, or smaller-sized plants that cost less but have plenty of growth potential.
3. Don’t Bring Your Dog Unless It’s Well-Behaved
Why It’s a Problem
While many people love bringing their furry friends along, poorly behaved pets can wreak havoc in a plant store. Dogs may knock over pots, chew on leaves, or stress out sensitive plants.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Leave your dog at home unless the store explicitly welcomes pets.
- If you do bring your pup, keep it on a leash, supervise closely, and clean up after any accidents.
4. Don’t Ignore Care Instructions
Why It’s a Problem
Employees spend time educating customers about plant care, only to see those same customers ignore advice and return later claiming the plant “died immediately.” This wastes everyone’s time and resources.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Listen carefully to care tips and take notes if needed.
- Be honest about your skill level and environment so staff can recommend plants that suit your lifestyle.
5. Don’t Snap Photos Without Permission
Why It’s a Problem
Some plant stores invest heavily in unique displays, rare plants, or exclusive inventory. Taking unauthorized photos can feel invasive, especially if competitors use them to replicate designs or undercut prices.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Always ask before snapping pictures, especially if you plan to post them online.
- Respect boundaries if the shop has a no-photos policy—it’s there for a reason.
6. Don’t Treat Rare Plants Like Common Ones
Why It’s a Problem
Rare or exotic plants often come with higher price tags due to their scarcity, difficulty in sourcing, or specialized care requirements. Expecting discounts or treating them casually undermines the effort involved in stocking them.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Appreciate the value of rare plants and understand why they cost more.
- If you’re unsure about committing to a high-maintenance plant, opt for something easier to care for instead.
7. Don’t Complain About Prices Without Understanding the Costs
Why It’s a Problem
Many factors contribute to plant pricing, including shipping fees, labor costs, and the time required to nurture plants to saleable size. Complaints about “overpriced” plants can be frustrating for employees who work hard to provide quality products.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Educate yourself on what goes into growing and maintaining healthy plants.
- Remember that supporting small businesses means paying fair prices for their expertise and dedication.
8. Don’t Handle Pots or Decor Items Carelessly
Why It’s a Problem
Pots, planters, and decorative items are part of the store’s inventory too. Dropping, breaking, or mishandling these items creates extra work for employees and financial losses for the business.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Inspect decor items gently and avoid picking up fragile pieces unnecessarily.
- Keep young children supervised to prevent accidental damage.
9. Don’t Expect Staff to Solve All Your Problems Immediately
Why It’s a Problem
Plant store employees wear multiple hats—they’re caretakers, educators, cashiers, and designers all at once. Bombarding them with endless questions or expecting instant solutions can overwhelm them.
What Employees Wish You’d Do Instead
- Be patient and polite when seeking help. If the store is busy, browse around while waiting for assistance.
- Do some research beforehand so you can ask targeted questions rather than starting from scratch.
Final Thoughts
Plant stores are magical places where nature meets community, but they rely on mutual respect between customers and employees to thrive. By avoiding these nine common mistakes, you’ll not only make life easier for the staff but also ensure a positive shopping experience for yourself.
For me, visiting a plant store is always a joy because it reminds me of the beauty and resilience of nature. When we treat these spaces—and the people who run them—with kindness and consideration, we create an environment where everyone benefits. So next time you step into a plant shop, remember these tips and enjoy the process of finding your next leafy companion. Happy shopping!
