It’s the season when I do what I call plant hopping. This is where I visit as many local shops and plant outlets as possible. I’ve never had an outdoor patch of green before, so I usually use my green thumb indoors. As a result of being a first time home owner, imagine my excitement at trying my hand as a landscape artist (#not). I’m not sure I would call myself a plant whisperer, but I do enjoy communicating with mine. I feel they are able to tell you something to cue you on how they like where they are.

Plant Whispering

This can be in the lilt of an upturned leaf. Or the budding of new branches. A blossoming. I’m perfectly fine in this pot even though I’m overcrowded (my jade). The sun is way too strong, you’re killing me – I’m brown not green already. Things like that.

Vrksa means a tree. In this posture, the whole body extends upwards like a tree.

YOGA A GEM FOR WOMEN – Geeta Iyengar

I’m curious to spot these things. I think the deeper meaning and sensitivity is refreshing. The world is getting hard and harsh. Or maybe that’s because I’ve overheard too many El conversations.

Anyway, I think plants help me create a feeling of sanctuary. Haven is so important, however you find it. Imagine if every single person on the planet tapped into the energy of nurturing. All at once.

At any rate, when I left my plants in Montreal to come to the states, it was a challenging good-bye. Since moving to the U.S, I’ve kept a few growing but noticed that my NJ plants didn’t transfer well to Philly. I guess they missed the certain kind of light.

Where to Find Plants in Philly

But Philly is filled with plant stores so I’ve made plant hopping a ritual. It’s that haven thing again. I think they help to bring me home. So, if that sounds like you, I’ve tried out several stores here. This is my take on them, and I am not getting paid for this review.

A few options for plant-s- hopping

First, I want to give an honorable mention to Trader Joes (please open one up in Fishtown/NoLibs). I transplanted a $4.99 mini rose and it is growing like I never imagined. Plus, you’ll often get a good pot out of it even if the plant dies which does happen.

• Stump
• Urban Jungle
• Loews Garden Center
• Rittenhouse Square Market (Saturday scene)
• City Planter
• Greensgrow

Stump

Definitely a plant boutique. There’s a leather couch, you just want to sit on. Friendly staff and if you buy a pot, they’ll earth you plant in it. But, not cheap. I like their idea of a rewards card but they should reward you for each item. In my opinion.

Urban Jungle

First time visit here this year. It is hard to park but staff is friendly and helpful. For instance, I got good advice about which earth mix to use. Bit too pricy for pots but nice for a house plant on the smaller side. Not cheap. Said earth mote cost effective at Loews. I asked about their green wall installation – it is $$$$ but hey, there’s always the power ball.

Loews Garden Center

Not a boutique, more like a plant supermarket. They definitely have garden supplies, parking, soil and selection. Plus, you can drive there, load a basket and there’s no extra fuss. Meaning they aren’t trying to be cool, trendy or local. Good selection of jade plants, hanging plants, etc. etc.

Rittenhouse Square

Rittenhouse Square 

This is definitely an outing for Saturday morning. Lively and crowded. You get to soak up the vibe in Rittenhouse Square, including the Dogwoods. A bit sales oriented so I don’t ask for advice, no potting service, and not cheap. But, you come away having enjoyed yourself and you can definitely score some great finds to re-pot yourself.

City Planter

City Planter

This place is a maze and I keep wishing Cafe La Maude took reservations so I could get to both in one visit. But parking is a challenge. Some of my plants are doing well, others no. They seem more at the cuttings stage as opposed to brought in from the greenhouse (Stump). They did pot my plants for me since I bought the container. I like going and also wish I could afford their great knick knacks but no.

Greensgrow

Greensgrow 

If you live in Fishtown or Northern Liberties, this place is worth going to. There’s another location in West Philly but I found it too out of the way. We go here for some summer plants and a few garden things because I believe in supporting local businesses. I’m one too.

#livelocal plants trees walking