Choosing the best houseplant supplies and tools is difficult because there are so many options. Below I will make it super easy for you, and give you a list of everything you need to get started.
If you’re wondering what you need for indoor gardening, then you’re in the right place.
This comprehensive list of houseplant supplies and tools contains all of my favorites that I use every day. These are must-haves that every indoor plant owner needs.
From houseplant lighting to humidity and temperature control supplies, soils, fertilizers and repotting equipment, to essential pruning, pest control, and propagation tools, you’ll find the best of everything you need here.
My Top Picks For The Best Houseplant Supplies & Tools
There are so many gimmicky and gadgety products on the market these days that it’s very difficult and overwhelming to figure out what actually you need, let alone finding good-quality brands.
That’s why I created this list of houseplant supplies and tools – to help newbies figure out what they need, and make it simple for you to choose the best ones.
Don’t worry, you certainly don’t have to go out and buy everything on this list. But I wanted to share all of my favorite products so you can quickly find exactly what you’re looking for.
Houseplant Lighting & Watering Supplies
Since these are two of the most common indoor gardening topics, I’m starting out my tools and supplies list with items you’ll need to provide the perfect amount of light and water to your houseplants.
18″ Grow Light Fixture With T5 Bulb
If you find that your home doesn’t have enough natural light or is too dark for your houseplants, then one of the first tools you’ll probably want to get is artificial lighting.
This 18″ lamp fixture with a T5 bulb and snap-on reflector has everything you need to get started, and doesn’t take up much space.
It includes both the fixture as well as a full-spectrum T5 bulb, hanging hardware, and a built-in timer.
2′ Grow Light Fixture With T5 Bulb
If you need additional space to fit more plants, this is the same as the one above but about 6″ wider.
With this sleek 2′ reflector fixture with lamp you’ll have a little extra room for more houseplants. It also includes the bulb, a built in timer and hardware for hanging.
Dual Outlet Grounded Light Timer
Giving your houseplants the perfect amount of light each day is easy with this handy tool.
With this dual grounded automated outlet timer, you can just set it and forget it. It’s by far the best way to stick to the same lighting schedule every single day.
Soil Moisture Meter Gauge
Proper watering is by far the most difficult thing for indoor gardeners, making this inexpensive tool essential in my book.
This moisture sensor meter probe shows you exactly when it’s time to water, and it’s a quick and simple way to ensure you will get it right every time, without any batteries.
Contemporary Metal Watering Can
Probably the first thing that every indoor gardener needs is a watering jug, and this one is not only functional, it’s stylish.
This contemporary watering can with a bamboo handle is my personal favorite, and I use it every day. It’s sleek and easy to use, with great accuracy to keep spills to a minimum.
Automatic Plant Watering Devices
If you’re going away on vacation, or simply forget to water regularly, then you should definitely add a set of these to your houseplant supplies toolkit.
These clear self-watering globe devices come in different sizes to meet the needs of every plant, and are lightweight and reusable. Plus it’s easy to see when they need to be refilled.
Protective Houseplant Coasters
Protect window ledges and other surfaces from moisture damage with these stylish mats. This set of plant coasters comes in 3 sizes for all of your needs.
I like these because they go with any color pot. Since they’re reversible, you can choose to display either the cork or black rubber coated side.
Indoor Plant Drip Trays
Another essential supply that every houseplant owner needs is a set of drip trays. Place these under your pots to capture any excess drainage.
This 12 pack includes 3 basic sizes of durable saucers. They’re heavy duty, long-lasting, and easy to clean for reuse.
Humidity & Temperature Control
The humidity and temperature levels in our homes aren’t always ideal for houseplants, but these supplies and tools will help you easily control both to create the perfect indoor environment for your plants.
Indoor Humidity Monitor & Thermometer
Monitor both the indoor humidity levels and the temperature for your houseplants all with one handy tool.
This digital hygrometer and indoor thermometer not only shows you the current levels, it tracks the highs and lows for the day so you can ensure everything stays in the ideal range.
Cool Mist Room Humidifier
Indoor air is much dryer, especially when we heat our homes in the winter. Since most common houseplants are from tropical regions, it’s important to keep the air around them humid.
Running this cool mist room humidifier will help to create the perfect environment to keep your tropical plants thriving.
4-Tier Mini Indoor Greenhouse
This is definitely a nice-to-have item that you don’t necessarily need. But having one can certainly make it much easier to maintain adequate humidity for your most finicky houseplants.
This mini indoor greenhouse with 4 shelves can hold a lot of plants, yet it’s small so it doesn’t take up a ton of space.
The plastic cover zips fully open in front for quick ventilation, or you can remove it if you just want to use the shelves. Plus the whole thing is simple to break down and store when not in use.
Decorative Glass Dome Plant Cloche
If you just have a few plants that need extra moisture (or protection from menacing fur babies), then a cloche might be the answer.
This lovely glass cloche with wooden base is the perfect size, and the classic look goes well with any style of decor.
Glass Terrarium For Houseplants
Another decorative way to protect and display your plants, while also controlling the humidity level, is a terrarium greenhouse.
The classic vintage design on this glass accent terrarium planter is both lovely and functional, plus it can hold a few smaller plants or an arrangement.
Small Indoor Space Heater
If you find the only indoor area you have for your houseplants is too cold, the simple fix is adding a space heater.
This small ceramic electric space heater is perfect for controlling the temperature in a cold room or basement, and can quickly heat up the whole space.
Indoor Plant Mister Spray Bottle
Misting is another great way to supply houseplants with the extra moisture they crave.
Forget those ugly plastic spray bottles and get yourself one of these cute glass bottle misters. It’s both stylish and functional.
Houseplant Soils & Supplies
Using the right type of potting soil is crucial for success. Below I’ve listed a few basic types that are the best quality, along with supplies you’ll need if you want to make the perfect mix for any of your houseplants.
General Purpose Houseplant Potting Soil
Using a high-quality potting soil is crucial for success with indoor plants, and this type is among my top picks.
It’s an excellent all-purpose organic mixture that will work well for most types of indoor plants, and one of the brands that I trust the most.
Succulent, Cactus & Palm Soil
If you have any houseplants that like a faster-draining medium, then this is my go-to pre-made mixture.
This helps to provide the optimum aeration and drainage, and is the best choice for succulents, cacti, and palm plants.
Organic Peat Moss
If you’re like me and prefer to make your own potting mediums, peat moss is one of the most common bases to use.
I really like this all-natural organic peat moss to help retain moisture, while also improving aeration and drainage.
Coco Coir Block
If you prefer a more sustainable option, then coco coir is the perfect choice. It’s eco-friendly, renewable, and makes a wonderful base as well.
This premium coconut coir pith comes in a compact block so you can use only what you need, and easily store the rest for later.
All-Natural Vermiculite
Another one of the supplies that I always have on hand for my houseplants is vermiculite.
This naturally occurring mineral helps to keep your potting mix evenly moist, light and fluffy, and prevents compaction.
Organic Perlite
One of the most common ingredients in houseplant soil because it’s lightweight and all-natural, perlite is something I always have on hand in my tool shed.
This brand is organic and 100% pure. Use it for adding extra drainage and preventing compaction.
Horticultural Pumice
A good alternative to perlite, pumice has the same great benefits and is sometimes easier to find, though it does tend to be a tiny bit heavier.
The natural stone bits of this brand come in consistent sizes, and are clean and ready to use.
Lime Soil De-Acidifier
Most houseplants prefer alkaline soil, and if it’s too acidic, it will cause them to struggle or prevent them from taking up necessary nutrients.
This lime is organic and an all-natural de-acidifier which will quickly neutralize it, and create the perfect balance for optimal health.
pH Soil Testing Probe
It’s a good idea to test the pH of any houseplant soil before you use it, and a probe tool makes it quick and easy.
This 3-in-1 pH meter gauge can also test light and moisture, so you can quickly determine if anything is amiss. No batteries required.
When it comes time for repotting your houseplants, you’ll definitely need some tools and supplies to help make the job a snap. Below are my favorite things that I always use.
Portable Table-Top Potting Tray
Potting indoor plants is a messy job, and that’s why I find a tray is an essential tool to help keep everything contained.
This table-top potting tray is lightweight and easy to move around. It’s deep enough to keep the mess contained, and and it’s also great for mixing your own soils.
Basic Hand Trowel
Of course you’ll also need a tool to dislodge pot-bound houseplants, scoop the soil in and out of the container, and handling all of the other dirty jobs.
This heavy-duty steel hand trowel is one of the best on the market. It’s sturdy, strong, and durable so it will last for decades.
Skinny Hand Trowel
Similar to the one above only skinnier, I like the narrow blade for use in smaller pots, or for relocating fragile plants.
The forged steel construction on the blade is just as strong and durable, and is also very high-quality and nice looking.
Another handy tool that every houseplant owner needs is a soil scoop. I love the sturdy metal construction of this one over the flimsy plastic options on the market.
The gel handle and strong stainless steal scoop make it easy and comfortable to use, extremely durable, and it won’t slip out of your hand if it gets wet.
Mini Houseplant Tool Kit
Every indoor plant gardener needs a nice set of precision tools for delicate maintenance work, and these are so cute.
This mini kit set of 4 is made to stand up to the test of time, and even comes with a nice storage box.
4″ Plastic Nursery Plant Pots
A collection of nursery pots is another one of those important houseplant supplies to have on hand so you’re not scrambling when you need them.
This package of 4″ pots is perfect for small starts, they’re also sturdy and reusable, and have adequate drainage holes in the bottom.
6″ Plastic Nursery Plant Pots
These are similar to the ones above, only one size larger. I included both sizes here because they’re the two that I find myself reaching for most often.
These are thick, durable, reusable, and stack nicely for easy storage. And of course they also have plenty of drainage holes in the bottom.
Drainage Netting For Plant Pots
If you’re tired of the soil running out of the bottom of the pot and making a mess, then you need to get some drainage netting.
This netting is made specifically for potted plants, prevents soil loss, and comes ready to use, or is easy to cut to the exact size you need.
Pot Cleaning Bristle Brush
When it comes time to clean your houseplant pots for reuse, a bristle brush is a good tool to have on hand.
This fiber brush has thick bristles to remove caked on dirt, and is shaped to fit perfectly into your planters. It doesn’t hurt that it’s cute too!
For optimal health and growth, you’ll need to get the right supplies to not only feed, but nourish your houseplants, and keep them looking their best. Below are my go-to organic and all-natural fertilizers, as well as my favorite pruning tools.
All-Purpose Compost Tea Solution
If you’re looking for an easy solution that makes feeding your houseplants brainless, then compost tea is a great option.
This organic based compost tea solution is a liquid concentrate that you can mix right into your watering can, for a no-fuss boost of natural nutrients.
General Purpose Liquid Indoor Plant Food
Many common houseplants just need a general purpose plant food, and this one works great.
This liquid fertilizer for indoor plants provides organic nutrients to ensure superior results, and is safe to use on any of your houseplants.
All-Purpose Houseplant Fertilizer Granules
To make feeding your houseplants even easier, you can apply slow-release granules a few times during their active growing season.
These certified organic feeder pellets are safe and natural, easy to use, and infused with beneficial microbes that will help your plants thrive.
Flower Fertilizer Liquid Concentrate
If you have any indoor flowering plants, then you’ll definitely want to get something that encourages bigger and more fragrant blooms.
This liquid Big Bloom formula incorporates earthworm castings, bat guano, and other organic ingredients that offer a full range of nutrients, and is safe enough to use every time you water.
Flowering Plant Fertilizer Granules
You can also use granular pellets to feed your flowering indoor plants, which makes it super easy.
This one is specifically designed to supply phosphorus to enhance flower development, as well as nitrogen to support growth through the season. It has an NPK of 4-9-3.
High Performance Plant Pruners
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line pruners that make cutting through thick branches and stems a snap, then these are the ones for you.
These high-quality bypass pruners are heavy duty and very sharp, constructed of forged aluminum handles and hardened steel blades.
Multi-Snip Precision Shears
Many indoor plants are delicate and have thin stems and branches, and that’s wear having a nice pair of precision pruners will come in handy.
This is my go-to favorite one that I find myself reaching for all the time, and it’s ideal for snipping stems or deadheading.
As a bonus, the shap edges on the outside of the blades are great for slicing open burlap bags, sawing rope, cutting wire, and a variety of other garden tasks.
Micro-Tip Pruning Snips
It’s also great to have a nice pair of micro snips for delicate jobs or for pruning smaller houseplants.
These handy micro-tip pruning shears are ideal for shaping, repetitive trimming, and intricate snips,
Stainless Steel Bonsai Shears
Another great tool to have on hand for pruning and propagating your houseplants is a pair of trusty bonsai shears.
These super sharp precision shears have a high-grade stainless steel blade and soft handles for ease of use.
Pest Control & Propagation
Once you get into indoor gardening, you’ll find that you’ll need quality supplies for fighting bugs, as well as propagating your plants. Skip the toxic chemicals and use natural, organic products instead. Below are the ones that I use.
Organic Insecticidal Soap
I always recommend keeping some insecticidal soap on hand, because you never know when you’ll need it.
This multi-purpose insect killer works on contact, and is specifically made for organic gardening.
Mild Organic Liquid Soap
If you prefer, you can make your own organic insecticidal spray using 1 tsp of mild liquid soap with 1 liter of water, and this is the soap that I always use.
Dr. Bronner’s baby mild pure castile soap kills bugs quickly, and I’ve never had any issues with it damaging my plants (though you should always test it on a few leaves before treating the whole plant).
Neem Oil Liquid Concentrate
If you struggle with persistent bug infestations on your houseplants, then you definitely need to get yourself some all-natural neem oil.
This pure neem oil concentrate works great to not only kill the bugs you see, but it also has a residual effect to keep them from coming back.
Yellow Stick Trap For Flying Insects
There’s nothing worse than having tiny bugs flying around your houseplants, they are so annoying!
Yellow sticky traps are non-toxic and work to capture the flying adult insects, so you will be able to gain the upper hand as you work to get rid of them.
Rooting Hormone Powder
While this is definitely not required, you’ll want to get some hormone powder if you ever decide to try your hand at propagating houseplant cuttings.
This rooting hormone powder works great to speed up the process, and ensure your cuttings will form strong, healthy roots.
I hope that you’ve found my list of houseplant supplies and tools helpful. These are all products that I use on my indoor plants, so I know you will love them.
If you want to learn all there is to know about maintaining healthy houseplants year round, then you need my Houseplant Care eBook. It’ll show you how to keep any indoor plant thriving. Download your copy now.
More About Houseplant Care
Share your favorite houseplant tools and supplies in the comments section below.
Amy Andrychowicz
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