
Home Depot Plants: Best Indoor & Outdoor Picks (With Care Tips & Buying Guide)
πΏ Thinking about refreshing your space with greenery but overwhelmed by choices? Whether you’re sprucing up your patio or breathing life into your living room, finding the right plants can be tricky β especially when shopping at big retailers. Thatβs where Home Depot plants come into play: affordable, accessible, and surprisingly diverse.
But hereβs the catch β not all plants are created equal, and picking the wrong one for your light conditions, climate, or lifestyle can lead to frustration (and wilted leaves). π₯
This guide is your all-in-one solution to choosing the best indoor and outdoor plants at Home Depot β complete with expert care tips and an easy-to-follow buying guide. Whether you’re a plant newbie or a weekend gardener, you’ll discover which greenery thrives in your space and how to keep it flourishing. π±
Letβs dig into the smartest ways to shop Home Depot plants β so you can grow your dream space with confidence!
Table of Contents
Toggleπͺ΄ I. Why Choose Home Depot for Plants?
If youβre new to buying plants or just want a reliable place to build your green space, Home Depot is one of the best starting points. Hereβs why so many plant lovers β from beginners to seasoned gardeners β trust Home Depot for their indoor and outdoor greenery πΏ:
β 1. Easy Access, Online & In-Store
With thousands of retail locations across the U.S. and a robust online store, Home Depot makes plant shopping simple. You can browse in person or order live plants online for delivery or in-store pickup β super convenient for busy schedules. π
π·οΈ 2. Affordable Pricing & Frequent Deals
Whether youβre buying a $5 succulent or a $50 fiddle leaf fig, Home Depot offers competitive prices. Plus, youβll often find seasonal sales, markdowns on clearance racks, and bundle deals β perfect if you’re decorating on a budget.
π‘ Pro Tip: Check the clearance section for slightly stressed plants that can be revived with a little TLC.
πͺ΄ 3. Wide Plant Variety for Every Need
Home Depot carries a surprising range of plants, including:
- Low-maintenance indoor plants (great for beginners)
- Outdoor shrubs, perennials & trees
- Herbs and veggies for edible gardening
- Air-purifying and pet-safe options
Most plants are tagged with light, water, and zone info, making it easy to find the right fit for your space.
π€ 4. Trusted Growers Like Costa Farms
Many Home Depot plants come from top growers like Costa Farms, Bonnie Plants, and Vigoro. These brands are known for healthy, well-established plants β so you’re more likely to get a thriving, ready-to-grow green friend.
π 5. Return Policy That Gives Peace of Mind
Worried about plant shock or buyerβs regret? Home Depot offers a generous return window (often 90 days) on most live plants with a receipt. If something doesnβt thrive, you can bring it back β no stress.
π‘ II. Best Indoor Plants at Home Depot (Low-Maintenance Picks)
Looking to liven up your home but donβt want to stress over plant care? πͺ΄ Youβre in luck! Home Depot plants offer a wide selection of easy-to-grow indoor options that even beginners can keep alive and thriving. Below are some of the best low-maintenance houseplants youβll find at Home Depotβperfect for busy people, small spaces, and first-time plant parents.
πΏ 1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Light: Low to bright, indirect
- Water: Every 2β3 weeks
- Why itβs great: Snake plants are nearly indestructible. They tolerate neglect, purify the air, and look stylish with tall, sculptural leaves.
β
AEO Quick Answer:
Is the snake plant good for beginners?
Yes! Itβs one of the easiest plants to care forβperfect for low-light rooms and forgetful waterers.
π± 2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Light: Low to medium
- Water: Every 2β3 weeks
- Why itβs great: With its glossy leaves and drought-tolerant nature, the ZZ plant is ideal for darker corners and minimal care routines. It practically thrives on neglect.
π 3. Pothos (Golden, Marble Queen, etc.)
- Light: Low to bright, indirect
- Water: Once a week or when soil feels dry
- Why itβs great: Fast-growing and forgiving, pothos plants are great for shelves, hanging baskets, and trailing down furniture. They also help purify the air!
π‘ Pro Tip: Snip a vine and place it in water to grow a whole new plant for free!
πΈ 4. Peace Lily
- Light: Low to moderate
- Water: Weekly (will droop slightly when thirsty)
- Why itβs great: The peace lilyβs elegant white blooms and air-purifying qualities make it a favorite. Bonus: it tells you when it needs water by gently wilting.
πͺ΄ 5. Spider Plant
- Light: Bright, indirect
- Water: Every 1β2 weeks
- Why itβs great: This classic plant produces adorable baby βspiderettesβ that can be repotted. Itβs pet-friendly, easy to grow, and adds a playful touch to your space.
π Bonus: Look for Plants by Costa Farms
Many of Home Depotβs healthiest, beginner-friendly plants come from Costa Farms, known for their consistent quality and helpful care tags.
π§ Final Tip:
When shopping at Home Depot, check plant tags for:
- Light needs
- Watering instructions
- Mature size
This helps you choose the right plant for your home and lifestyleβno guesswork needed. π
These indoor Home Depot plants are not only low-maintenance but also bring warmth, beauty, and cleaner air into your home. Start with one or two, build confidence, and watch your indoor jungle grow! πΏπ
π³ III. Best Outdoor Plants at Home Depot (Perennials, Shrubs & More)
Looking to boost your curb appeal or create a cozy garden retreat? π Home Depot offers a huge selection of outdoor plantsβbut not all are beginner-friendly or suited for every yard. Whether youβre planting in pots, garden beds, or along fences, here are some of the best outdoor plants at Home Depot that are both beautiful and easy to care for.
πΈ 1. Lavender
- Why itβs great: Fragrant, low-maintenance, and loved by bees π
- Best for: Full sun, dry soil, Mediterranean-style gardens
- Care tip: Donβt overwater; it prefers dry feet!
β Bonus: Deters mosquitoes and makes great cut flowers.
πΏ 2. Boxwood Shrubs
- Why itβs great: Evergreen structure all year long
- Best for: Borders, hedges, and formal garden designs
- Care tip: Trim in spring for shape and airflow βοΈ
πΊ 3. Hydrangeas
- Why itβs great: Big blooms, bold colors, and lots of charm
- Best for: Part shade spots and cottage-style gardens
- Care tip: Water deeply once or twice a week
π‘ Pro Tip: Soil pH affects bloom colorβacidic = blue, alkaline = pink.
π± 4. Rosemary (Herb + Ornamental)
- Why itβs great: Dual-purposeβlooks great and you can cook with it! π½οΈ
- Best for: Sunny patios, herb gardens, and container planting
- Care tip: Let the soil dry out between waterings
β Beginner bonus: Rosemary is drought-tolerant and rarely gets pests.
πΉ 5. Knock Out Roses
- Why itβs great: Disease-resistant and long-blooming
- Best for: Flower beds, borders, and show-stopping curb appeal
- Care tip: Full sun = more flowers π
πͺ» Honorable Mentions:
- Coneflowers β native and pollinator-friendly
- Daylilies β super hardy and bloom all summer
- Japanese Maples β great for shaded garden corners
- Ornamental grasses β low-fuss texture and movement in the landscape
π¦οΈ IV. Matching Plants to Your Space: Light, Climate & Lifestyle
Before you grab that gorgeous fiddle leaf fig or blooming hydrangea at Home Depot, itβs crucial to match your plant to your space β not the other way around. πΏ Many plant struggles happen because people donβt choose plants that fit their light, climate, or daily routine. Hereβs how to get it right:
βοΈ 1. Understand Your Natural Light
Not all light is created equal. Before buying indoor plants, take a few minutes to observe how sunlight moves through your home during the day.
- Bright Direct Light: South-facing windows, ideal for sun-lovers like succulents and fiddle leaf figs
- Bright Indirect Light: East or west-facing windows; great for pothos, peace lilies, and rubber plants
- Low Light: North-facing or shaded corners; best for snake plants, ZZ plants, or ferns
π‘ Quick Tip: If you can read a book without turning on a light during the day, you likely have enough light for most houseplants.
π‘οΈ 2. Know Your Climate (Especially for Outdoor Plants)
Outdoor plant success depends heavily on your USDA hardiness zone β a measure of how cold your region gets in winter.
- Find Your Zone: Use Home Depotβs Zone Finder Tool or enter your zip code in any online zone calculator
- Match Plants to Zone: Lavender, rosemary, and coneflowers thrive in zones 6β9. Tropicals like hibiscus need warmer zones (9β11).
β Always check the plant tag β it usually lists the zone range it’s suited for.
π§ 3. Be Real About Your Lifestyle
Are you a frequent traveler? Forgetful about watering? Busy parent or pet owner? Your plant choices should match your day-to-day life, not just your dΓ©cor goals.
- Low-maintenance champions: Snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos (great for beginners or busy folks)
- Pet-safe picks: Spider plants, calatheas, areca palms (check ASPCA plant list πΎ)
- Time-rich plant lovers: Fiddle leaf figs, orchids, bonsai (need more care & attention)
π§ Know yourself β and your habits. A thriving plant is one that fits your routine, not one that fights it.
Taking just a little time to plan before buying will help you avoid frustration and wasted money β and give your new plant babies the best chance to thrive π±π
π§ͺ V. How to Inspect and Buy Healthy Plants at Home Depot
Shopping for plants at Home Depot can feel exciting β but not every plant on the shelf is ready to thrive. Picking a healthy one from the start can save you time, money, and heartache down the road. πͺ΄β¨
Hereβs how to inspect plants like a pro and bring home winners every time:
β 1. Check the Leaves Closely
Healthy leaves are vibrant, firm, and free of blemishes. Watch out for:
- Yellowing or browning tips πΏ
- Wilting or droopy leaves
- White powder, webbing, or sticky residue (signs of pests or disease)
π Flip a few leaves over β pests like spider mites and aphids often hide underneath.
β 2. Inspect the Stems
Strong, upright stems are a good sign. Avoid plants with:
- Mushy, soft, or darkened stems
- Cracked or broken stalks
- Moldy or soggy base near the soil
Pro tip: Gently wiggle the stem β if it feels loose in the soil, it may have weak or damaged roots.
β 3. Look for New Growth π±
New shoots, baby leaves, or buds = a happy, growing plant.
Plants showing fresh growth are actively thriving, not just surviving.
β 4. Examine the Soil
The soil should be slightly moist, not soggy or bone dry.
Watch out for:
- Mold or fungus on the surface
- Gnats flying out when you disturb the pot (a sign of overwatering)
- Overly compacted or foul-smelling soil
π§ Tip: Healthy plants usually come in breathable nursery pots with good drainage holes.
β 5. Choose Compact Over Leggy
Stretchy, βleggyβ plants are often light-starved.
Instead, choose plants that look:
- Full and bushy
- Balanced in shape
- Proportionate to the pot size
π Skip the tall, spindly ones unless youβre up for a rescue mission!
β 6. Ask When the Plants Were Stocked
Donβt be shy! Ask an employee when the latest shipment arrived.
Fresher stock = healthier roots and fewer issues. Midweek mornings are often best for new arrivals.
β 7. Know the Return Policy (Just in Case)
Home Depot generally allows returns on plants within 90 days β just keep the receipt or use your Home Depot account.
By following these simple inspection tips, youβll walk out with plants that are primed to thrive β not just survive. πΏπͺ
π± VI. Care Tips for Long-Lasting Plants
Want your Home Depot plants to thriveβnot just survive? Whether youβre caring for a leafy indoor beauty or a blooming outdoor showstopper, these simple yet powerful tips will help your plants stay healthy, vibrant, and stress-free. πΏ
π§ 1. Water Smart β Not Just Often
Overwatering is the #1 killer of houseplants. Always check the soil first.
Hereβs how:
- Stick your finger 1 inch into the soil β if it feels dry, itβs time to water.
- Use pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
- Water early in the day to avoid fungal issues, especially outdoors.
π‘ Pro Tip: Bottom watering (placing pots in a shallow tray of water) helps roots drink what they need without oversaturating.
βοΈ 2. Understand Your Light (It Matters More Than You Think)
Bright light β direct sun. Match your plant to your space:
- Low light: ZZ Plant, Snake Plant, Peace Lily
- Bright indirect light: Pothos, Spider Plant, Philodendron
- Full sun (outdoors): Lavender, Rosemary, Roses
Use a free light meter app or check shadows during the day to figure out light intensity.
πͺ΄ 3. Donβt Skip Repotting
Most Home Depot plants come in plastic nursery pots that arenβt meant for long-term use.
When to repot:
- Roots growing out of the bottom
- Soil dries out too quickly
- Plant looks too big for the pot
Choose a pot 1β2 inches wider and use fresh, well-draining soil suited for your plant type.
πΏ 4. Feed with Fertilizer (But Not Too Much)
Plants need food, too! π₯¦
- Indoor plants: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month (spring to early fall)
- Outdoor plants: Choose slow-release or plant-specific fertilizer based on needs
- Donβt fertilize stressed or newly repotted plantsβthey need time to adjust
β Beginner tip: If youβre unsure, start with half the recommended dose to avoid burn.
βοΈ 5. Adjust Care with the Seasons
Your plantβs needs change with the weather:
- Winter: Less water, no fertilizer, watch for dry indoor air
- Spring/Summer: Growth season! Time to water more, repot, and feed
- Fall: Transition periodβgradually reduce watering and feeding
Move tropicals indoors before first frost if theyβre in containers.
π§½ 6. Keep It Clean & Pest-Free
- Dust leaves monthly to help them breathe
- Wipe with a damp cloth or use a soft brush
- Check regularly for spider mites, mealybugs, or fungus gnats
If you see pests, treat with neem oil or insecticidal soapβboth safe and effective. π
πΈ VII. Budget Tips: Getting the Best Deals on Plants at Home Depot
Looking to green up your space without draining your wallet? πͺ΄ Good newsβHome Depot plants can be surprisingly budget-friendly if you know when and how to shop smart. Here are some expert tips to help you save big and still walk away with healthy, beautiful greenery.
π·οΈ 1. Shop the Clearance Rack
Every Home Depot garden center has a discount sectionβusually tucked in the back. These racks hold slightly sad-looking plants that just need a little TLC. Many are 50β75% off, and with proper care, they bounce back beautifully.
π‘ Pro Tip: Look for plants with healthy roots and minimal damage. A droopy leaf is fixableβa rotting stem is not.
π 2. Time Your Visit Strategically
Plan your shopping trips early in the week (especially Mondays or Tuesdays). Thatβs when most stores restock and move older inventory to clearance. Youβll get first dibs on both fresh arrivals and markdowns.
π§Ύ 3. Use the Home Depot Garden Club
Sign up for the Home Depot Garden Club online (itβs free!). Members receive exclusive coupons, seasonal plant care tips, and early access to salesβdirect to your inbox. πΏ
π‘ 4. Buy in Bulk or Bundles
Planning a big garden project? Look for multi-packs or bundle dealsβespecially on herbs, succulents, and bedding plants. Buying in sets can save 20β30% compared to individual pots.
πͺ΄ 5. Donβt Overlook βStarterβ Plants
Home Depot often sells smaller starter plants at lower prices. These younger plants cost less and grow quickly with the right care. Ideal for patient plant parents who want to save now and grow later!
π‘ 6. Shop Off-Season for Deep Discounts
Garden centers slash prices on plants at the end of each season. Fall and early winter are perfect times to snag perennials, bulbs, and even indoor plants for a fraction of their spring price.
π¦ 7. Check Online-Only Deals
Donβt forget to browse HomeDepot.com for online exclusives. Sometimes youβll find limited-time plant deals, bundles, or even free shipping offers that arenβt available in-store.
π¦ VIII. Can You Buy Home Depot Plants Online? (YesβHereβs How)
Absolutely! πΏ Buying Home Depot plants online is not only possible β itβs convenient, fast, and surprisingly beginner-friendly. Whether youβre planning a patio makeover or just want to brighten your living room, you can now get fresh plants delivered right to your doorstep without leaving the house.
Hereβs everything you need to know to order with confidence:
π 1. Where to Shop Online for Home Depot Plants
- Visit homedepot.com
- Go to Garden Center > Plants & Garden Flowers
- Filter by indoor, outdoor, light needs, or size
- Look for trusted brands like Costa Farms for high-quality picks
π 2. Delivery vs. In-Store Pickup: Whatβs Better?
Delivery:
- Ideal for heavy pots or bulk orders
- Ships directly to your door
- Look for items marked βShips to Homeβ
- Plants are usually well-packaged to protect roots and leaves
In-Store Pickup:
- Order online and pick up at your nearest store
- Saves time browsing in-store
- Great for grabbing last-minute gifts or seasonal plants πΊ
π Pro Tip: Some plants are online-only, while others are in-store exclusives β so itβs smart to check both options if youβre after something specific.
π 3. What Are the Best-Selling Online Plants at Home Depot?
Here are a few popular choices frequently rated highly by customers:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria) β Low-maintenance and pet-tolerant
- Monstera Deliciosa β Trendy and fast-growing
- ZZ Plant β Thrives on neglect
- Fiddle Leaf Fig β Beautiful but needs bright light
- Lavender & Herbs (Rosemary, Mint) β Great for patios and kitchen use
π¦ 4. Things to Keep in Mind Before Ordering
- Check the size: Product photos can be misleading. Always read the size specs (e.g., 4β pot vs. 10β pot).
- Inspect on arrival: Unpack your plant right away. If itβs damaged or dying, contact customer support β Home Depot usually offers easy returns or replacements.
- Plan for repotting: Most plants ship in nursery containers, so you may want to transfer them to a decorative pot within a week or two.
π§ IX. Common Mistakes to Avoid With Home Depot Plants
Buying plants from Home Depot can be fun and affordableβbut itβs easy to make a few missteps that lead to disappointment. Here are the most common mistakes to watch out for, plus simple ways to avoid them π
1. Choosing Plants Based on Looks Only π
That gorgeous plant might look perfect in your cart, but looks can be deceiving. Some plants need lots of sunlight, humidity, or careβand may not thrive in your space.
β
What to do instead:
Always read the care tag. Check if the plant matches your homeβs light conditions, climate, and your ability to keep up with maintenance.
2. Skipping the Health Check at the Store π§
Many beginners grab the first plant they see. But pests, root rot, and stress signs can hide in plain sight.
β
What to do instead:
Inspect leaves (top and bottom), stems, and soil. Avoid plants with brown tips, yellowing, or mushy spots. Look for firm stems and new growthβthese are signs of a healthy plant π±
3. Keeping Plants in Nursery Pots Too Long
Those thin plastic pots are just for transport. Leaving your plant in one for too long can stunt its growth or cause root issues.
β
What to do instead:
Repot within 1β2 weeks using a slightly larger pot with drainage. Use fresh, well-draining soil suited to your plant type.
4. Overwatering (The #1 Killer!) π§β
Too much love = too much water. It’s one of the most common reasons plants from Home Depot donβt survive.
β
What to do instead:
Stick your finger into the soilβif itβs still damp an inch down, donβt water yet. Always use pots with drainage holes, and avoid letting plants sit in standing water.
5. Placing Outdoor Plants Indoors (and Vice Versa)
Outdoor plants may not adapt well to indoor light and air circulation. Likewise, many indoor plants canβt handle direct sun or outdoor weather changes.
β
What to do instead:
Make sure youβre buying the right plant for the right location. If it says βfull sunβ or βUSDA Zone 7,β it belongs outside.
6. Ignoring Your Climate or Light Conditions
Home Depot sells plants for many zonesβbut not all will thrive where you live.
β
What to do instead:
Use the USDA Hardiness Zone tool or ask a store associate what plants work best for your area. Indoors, know if your space is low-light or bright, and match plants accordingly.
7. Not Using the Return Policy When Needed
Did your plant die within days despite your best care? Donβt just toss it.
β
What to do instead:
Home Depot usually allows returns within 90 days with a receiptβeven for live plants. Use it if something goes wrong early on!
Grow With Confidence Using Home Depot Plants
Bringing plants into your home or garden doesnβt have to be overwhelming. With the wide selection of Home Depot plants, you have access to affordable, beginner-friendly options for every spaceβindoors or out. Whether you’re decorating a sunny windowsill or creating a backyard oasis, the key is choosing the right plants for your needs and giving them proper care from day one.
By following this guideβfrom plant selection and care tips to common mistakesβyouβre not just buying greenery; youβre setting yourself up for long-term success π±
So take a stroll through your local Home Depot (or browse online), armed with knowledge, confidence, and a little plant-loving curiosity. Happy planting! πͺ΄β¨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are Home Depot plants good quality?
Yes, Home Depot plants are generally good quality, especially when sourced from reputable growers like Costa Farms and Vigoro. Be sure to inspect the plantβs condition in-storeβlook for healthy leaves, no pests, and signs of new growth.
2. Does Home Depot offer a guarantee on plants?
Yes, Home Depot offers a 1-year guarantee on most perennials, trees, and shrubs, and a 90-day return policy on many indoor plants. Just keep your receipt, and you can return or exchange the plant if it doesnβt thrive.
3. What are the best low-maintenance indoor plants at Home Depot?
Great low-maintenance options include Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, Pothos, and Peace Lilies. These plants are perfect for beginners and require minimal light and watering.
4. Can I buy Home Depot plants online and have them shipped?
Yes, Home Depot sells a wide variety of live plants online with delivery or in-store pickup options. Make sure to check shipping details, as not all plants can be delivered to every location due to climate or state regulations.
5. How do I know which plants will grow well in my area?
Check your USDA Hardiness Zone and match it with the zone listed on the plant tag or product description. Home Depot also labels plants by zone compatibility to help you choose the right ones for your local climate.
6. How do I pick a healthy plant at Home Depot?
Look for plants with vibrant, green leaves, firm stems, and signs of new growth. Avoid any plants with yellowing leaves, spots, wilting, or pests on the underside of leaves.
7. Whatβs the best time of year to buy outdoor plants from Home Depot?
Spring and early summer are ideal for buying outdoor plants due to fresh stock and optimal growing conditions. Youβll also find seasonal deals and a wider selection during these months.
8. Do I need to repot plants from Home Depot?
Yes, most plants come in nursery pots and should be repotted within a few weeks. Use a slightly larger pot with drainage holes and fresh soil to give your plant room to grow and stay healthy.