So, you’re ready to start exploring some plant-care tools. Where do you start? What tools will you actually use, VS what just looks really cool? There are countless methods of plant care that you can apply to your collection that don’t break the bank, but if you have some spare spending money you’re sitting on and want to get more acquainted with plant care items, this is the article for you! I’ve discussed what I call the “Pillars of Planting” in the first installment of our Beginner Plant Parenting blogs here if you are interested in exploring these areas deeper, but for now the pillars are as follows: water, pot, soil, temperature, and light. These components are what I used to determine my top 9 items I most frequently use for my plants. Let’s get shopping!

1. Pruning Shears

   A reliable set of clippers changes the game when it comes to pruning and propagating your plants. I have found I use my pruning clippers so much, I don’t even return them to my plant storage, I leave them inside of my greenhouse cabinet with the plants. Trying to pull dead leaves off can end up tearing your plant, and sure, regular scissors work fine in a pinch, but clippers designed for pruning make the job easier for you and your plant. Gardening shears have a little extra 'umph in the handle to slice through branches that regular scissors don't. This particular set I have chosen comes with various sizes depending on the plant you are pruning, which just makes it easier to cut through tougher branches with minimal damage. Plus, they have a built-in security lock!

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2. Nursery Pots

   Most, if not all, of the plants you buy will come in a plastic container called a nursery pot. While it may be tempting to throw that plastic out and get your plant straight into a pretty pot, it's often much easier to change decor pots and manage your plant if it's still in that nursery pot. Because of the uses of these pots, I have found a pack that not only has various sizes to grow with your plant, but they’re also clear! With clear pots, you have an added aid in plant care as you can see the roots/water situation easier.

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3. Grow Lights

   Sometimes plants need a little help in the light department, especially if you’re lacking in window space. Luckily, there are so many types of grow light options out there that even a basement can become a jungle! This little light is a good single-plant light to start with, and the brand, Sansi, has other sizes you can upgrade to!

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4. Misting Bottle

   A misting bottle is great to have on hand if your high humidity plants are struggling, especially if you notice new leaves getting stuck often (I’m looking at you, Philodendrons…) This particular bottle has the most satisfying slow-spray mechanism that lets out a ton of mist in one easy squeeze, and the water tank is durable glass instead of plastic. If you don’t own very many humidity-seeking plants this item may not be at the top of your list, but I like this bottle so much I will throw this in for consideration: it works great for hair! My husband and I permanently relocated our misting bottle to the bathroom counter because we use it to tame our bed-heads a lot!

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5. Watering Can

   Hear me out on this one! Yes, you can technically take all of your plants to the sink and water them there, no container required. But we aren’t here for free, we’re here to shop! Personally I find watering cans with long narrow spouts the most useful for houseplant care, as the maneuverability of this can makes the work much more precise and mess free. Plus, in comes in very cute colors!

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6. Soil Moisture Monitor

   This tool is an MVP for everyone who struggles with water the most when it comes to plant care. As you go about your watering, you can jab your soil beforehand to be extra sure your plant is actually dry. This will help with overwatering a lot! I do have a pro-tip for this tool: DON’T leave it sitting in a plant pot/soil for storage! I have noticed the reliability of a water monitor decreases if you leave it constantly exposed to wet soil, so rather than leave it inside of a pot permanently, consider storing it with your watering can and other items.

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7. Repotting Mat

   A repotting mat can make the difference between a quick pot change and the most poorly timed deep clean of your life. There truly are few things as bad as trying to pop a plant into a new container and sending soil everywhere. With a mat, you can keep your mess contained, protect your space, and if you end up in a dire situation and just cannot report anymore, you can roll the thing back up with your tools inside and try again tomorrow!

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8. Trowel

   Similar to the repotting mat, a trowel just makes pot maintenance go much smoother, and in combination with the mat and some solid gardening gloves, the mess becomes much more manageable. Plants and gardening can be a fun mess when you’re in the mood for it, but sometimes you just need to swap a dang pot, not get elbow deep in potting soil and have it go everywhere!

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9. Gloves

   Disposable gloves can be a counter to this option but, I personally prefer durable reusable options wherever possible. No one likes soil buildup under their nails (if you say you do, I’m scared of you) so gloves are an excellent item to have on hand. Plus, if you end up exploring with cacti, you’re definitely going to want gloves!

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   Naturally, you may find you don't need every item on this list, but I aimed to keep things as essential as possible to start! Keep an eye out for future blog posts, and let me know if there are topics you'd like to see discussed. Happy planting!