Let’s start by saying this: Using faux plants in your home doesn’t make it any less designer. While many of us dream of filling our homes with real, lush greenery, there are several factors to consider when it comes to keeping live plants—lighting, space, cost, and, of course, the big one: keeping them alive. Most of us don’t have the time or the green thumb for that, which is where faux plants come in.
But, don’t be fooled—choosing the right faux plants is an art in itself. You want them to look as real as possible, blending seamlessly with your decor, while minimizing the upkeep. So, I’m here to share some tips for selecting the best faux plants that will make your space feel fresh, stylish, and effortless—without the worry of watering or wilting.
Here are my top tips to help you shop for the perfect faux greenery!
Tip 1: Consider Your Space & Style
First, think about the overall aesthetic of your space. If you’re going for a minimalist, clean look, choose plants with sleek, simple designs like a snake plant or a fiddle leaf fig. These plants have a modern and understated appeal that fits well with minimalistic spaces. On the other hand, if your home has a more traditional or rustic vibe, you might want to opt for fuller, bushier plants that offer more volume and texture, like a large fern or palm.
Tip 2: Scale Matters!
Size is everything when it comes to faux plants. For standard ceiling heights (8 to 9 feet), aim for a plant that’s at least 7 feet tall. A smaller plant may look out of place, making your room feel cramped. Larger faux plants not only fill the space better, but also add an element of grandeur, drawing the eye upward and making the room feel more expansive. Just be sure the plant is proportional to your space to avoid overwhelming the room.
Tip 3: Look for Realistic Details
Texture is key when selecting a faux plant. When shopping, look for plants that have realistic veins on the leaves and natural-looking stems. Avoid plants with shiny, plastic-like leaves, as they tend to look more artificial. The best faux plants have varied shades of green, with some light and dark tones that mimic the natural aging process of real plants. The more detailed the texture, the more lifelike the plant will appear.
Tip 4: Don’t Worry About the Base
If you find a faux plant that meets all your criteria but has a less-than-ideal base, don’t worry too much. The most important factor is the overall quality and authenticity of the plant itself. As long as the greenery looks great, you can always swap out the planter. I recommend using a larger, more stylish planter to elevate the look and make it appear more “designer”. A beautiful planter can add sophistication and give the faux plant a more polished, refined finish.
Tip 5: Keep a Budget in Mind
Faux plants can vary greatly in price, depending on their size and quality. While they can still be an investment, they’re typically much more affordable than buying a sizeable, real plant. When shopping, consider your budget and the overall value of your purchase. For instance, if you find a 6-foot plant that checks off all the right boxes but looks a bit shorter in your space, you can always place it in a taller planter to create the illusion of a larger plant. This can save you money while still achieving the desired height.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to select faux plants that fit seamlessly into your home, bringing that touch of greenery without the upkeep.
Below is a visual example to show the difference between faux plants and what to stay away from:
Tune in next week, where we will talk about “The Benefits of Hiring an Interior Stylist/Designer.”
Here is to creating happy spaces,
Rashmi