Outside view of VIDA Building

It’s OK to Have Artificial Plants. Here’s How to Do It Right

Artificial plants in a living room. Image credit: Véronique Trudel

April 2023

 

You’ve probably read a bunch of articles and blog posts saying that anyone can grow houseplants successfully, right? We even wrote one ourselves. But here’s the thing, even if you’re capable of keeping houseplants alive, maybe you’re just not that into it.

There are actually some pretty good reasons to consider artificial plants for your apartment or townhome. For one thing, they’re way cheaper in the long run than real plants. You don’t have to stress about watering them when you’re away on vacation. Plus, you can choose plants that fit your style perfectly without worrying if they’ll actually survive. Trust us, the list goes on.

However, if you’re not sure what to look for, finding the right artificial plants can be a bit tricky. So, here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re shopping around.

First of all, focus on quality. You’ll find artificial flowers and plants in all sorts of price ranges, but if you’re looking for ones that actually look realistic and will last for years, invest in a high-quality artificial plant.

Next, go for realism. Cheaper artificial plants often look fake because they have a shiny, plastic-like appearance. Look for plants with realistic color gradients and stems that vary in length and texture. Some stems should droop, just like they would with live flowers.

Avoid perfection. Rarely do you find a perfectly symmetrical flower or plant in nature, so don’t buy one for your home. Look for plants that have slight variations in color or shape. Trees and plants should have branches and stems that aren’t all exactly the same length or angle. Perfect symmetry is a dead giveaway that a plant is fake.

Once you’ve got your artificial plants, there are a few easy things you can do to keep them looking great. For example, rotate them periodically to make sure they don’t fade on just one side. If they sit in the sun, give them a little turn every few weeks so they get even exposure.

And don’t be afraid to use the scissors! Even the best-made artificial plants can lose a little of their luster over time. If you notice a stem or leaf that’s looking droopy or sad, go ahead and trim it off. Your plant will look as good as new.

Lastly, don’t forget to clean your artificial plants occasionally. Even the most realistic-looking plants will give themselves away if they’re covered in dust. Just dust them off or gently wipe them down with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh.