First and foremost, examine my leaves. They are my pride and joy, the main reason you are considering bringing me home. Look for foliage that is robust, fully expanded, and has a vibrant, consistent color. Whether my leaves are deep green, purple, or variegated, the color should be strong and even across the plant. Be wary of specimens with leaves that are pale, yellowing (chlorotic), or covered in numerous brown, crispy spots. A few minor blemishes on older, lower leaves can be normal, but widespread discoloration or wilting is a sign of significant stress, possibly from improper watering, disease, or nutrient deficiencies. Gently lift a leaf or two and check the underside; this is a common hiding place for pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. You want to see clean, pest-free undersides.
My stems are the vital conduits that transport water and nutrients from my roots to my leaves. They should be stout, firm, and upright, not spindly, soft, or leaning excessively. A plant that appears leggy or stretched (etiolated) has likely been competing for light in a crowded nursery bench and may be weaker. Pay close attention to the crown of the plant—the central point where the stems meet the soil. This area must be firm and healthy. If you see any soft, mushy, or darkened tissue at the crown, it is a strong indicator of crown rot, a fungal issue often caused by overwatering. A plant with crown rot is a high-risk purchase and will likely decline rapidly after you bring it home.
This is the most critical, yet often overlooked, part of the inspection. My roots are my foundation, and their health dictates my future growth and stability. If possible, gently slide me out of the nursery pot to get a look at my root ball. You are looking for a well-developed but not excessively tangled mass of roots. Healthy roots are typically white or light tan in color and feel firm to the touch. A strong, earthy smell is normal. Be extremely cautious if you see roots that are dark brown or black, feel slimy or mushy, or if there is a foul, rotten odor. These are classic signs of root rot, a death sentence for many plants if not addressed aggressively. Conversely, if you see a dense, matted web of roots circling tightly around the inside of the pot (a condition known as being pot-bound or root-bound), it indicates I have been in that container for too long. While I may survive, I will be stressed and require immediate repotting to thrive.
Take a moment to assess my immediate surroundings at the nursery. Look closely at the surface of the soil in the pot. Are there any signs of pest activity, such as fine webbing (spider mites), small cottony masses (mealybugs), or a congregation of small insects? Also, check for weeds growing in the pot. While a single weed isn't a catastrophe, a pot full of them suggests the nursery may not be providing the most attentive care. Weeds compete with me for water and nutrients, and their presence can indicate neglect. A clean pot free of pests and competitors is a good sign that the nursery maintains high standards of plant health.
Finally, compare me to my siblings on the nursery bench. Avoid the temptation to choose the largest plant in the group, as it might be the most severely root-bound. Instead, look for a plant of moderate size that exhibits the characteristics of overall vigor: lush, unblemished foliage, strong stems, and a root system that is healthy and active but still has room to grow. A smaller, bushier plant with bright new growth at the center is often a better choice than a tall, leggy one. Remember, you are not just buying my current appearance; you are investing in my future potential in your garden. A healthy start is everything.
