The Good News - You’re Already Growing the IT Plants 🌸🪴🌿

[@siamak1]

It may sounds mean, I am so glad gardening and plants growing are finally coming back to the plant lovers.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

This doesn’t sound mean! Passion for growing things will remain, long after the internet… 🤣 I hope! It’s really interesting to observe the wax & wane

[@moiraslater8526]

I am too

[@soberplantguy]

Right? There are an awful lot of people in this hobby who ... don't seem to care about growing plants.

[@soberplantguy]

Whoa whoa whoa. Some of us are counting on this internet thing 😅

[@siamak1]

@@soberplantguy 🙂

[@soniacosgrove]

Say it louder for the people in the back! I am so guilty of wanting a plant, getting the plant and very quickly getting back to scrolling for the next one. I need to appreciate what I have and grow them well. And that is ok!!! The plants I have deserve my attention and care for the joy (and worry LOL) they give me. I could not imagine my home without them. Thank you for always being so open about your opinion and being so down to earth with it. Happy New Year to you and your household! 🎉🌿💚

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Lovely comment. Agree agree agree! We could all be more appreciative of what we have. What a timely video

[@soniacosgrove]

@hanstera_deliciosa Very timely!

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you, Sonia. It takes us all time to find contentment. *If* we ever do 🤣

[@georgewallace6525]

I have been having similar thoughts. I am a plant collector from way back. When I started in collectable plants it was about species. I collected directly from importers. The plants didn't come with cultivation instructions. They came with location and typical growing conditions. It was never about money. Yes the plants did go for more than locally available plants. They were sold to help understand the species and captive cultivation. I sold any extras at a nominal cost, but nothing crazy. These plants were valued. They were loved. Plant people wanted them to collect. The goal was to have the biggest best specimen. I traded, gifted and received many plants. Yes there was some money made for the grower, but it was always the love of plants that kept me going. I will always prefer seeing a beautiful well groomed plant in someone's home, than a random collection of barely established scrapy twigs. The plant hobby and business is filled with many incredible people. It is my hope that we move from a profit based business model. I will continue to say, if you can buy a plant at a retail chain, it is not rare, but it is a lovely addition to your collection.

[@soberplantguy]

Very well-said. Thanks so much for this thoughtful contribution.

[@SSaaNNddYY77]

I totally agree! I will never pay outrageous prices on ANY plant again. I paid a ton for a tiny 2" Thai Constellation 2 years ago... It's grown into a gorgeous large plant, but today they are so much cheaper! It taught me a lesson in patience. I'll hold out... 😊

[@soberplantguy]

In my case, the lesson of patience has taken a whole lot of trial and error 🤣😂🤣

[@kimypedia642]

Just had my 2 juvenile thaicons at 30-35 dollars. I think I held on far tightly

[@soberplantguy]

@@kimypedia642 Nicely done! Those are gorgeous plants!

[@vessyhus]

Hi, Dave. I agree 100%. I also believe most people just got tired of chasing their own tails: a new IT plant comes out, you hustle to get it just to find out that 2 months later another IT plant has hit the market and yours is worth 5 bucks max. If it survives...Some, like the Thai constellation have the potential to become classics, but 99,9% are just overhyped and overpriced compost bin filler. I wish you a happy new year. Be healthy and happy and keep posting💚

[@soberplantguy]

Well, I'll be stealing "compost bin filler" for a country song I'm currently writing 🤣 Great comment, and I'm with you 💯

[@MikeCoger-y1w]

100% agree. I just participated in my 1st live auction from Steve's Leaves and did get a hoya for just under $20. But the others just flew right by my limit. I figured I would wait a while and get one when the prices come down. Really liked the video sir.

[@debh3404]

Their prices used to be reasonable. Now they are all about the hype and pulling in the big bucks. I guess if people are willing to pay those prices, those prices will stay high for a while.

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks, Mike. Really appreciate seeing you here all the time!

[@soberplantguy]

I'm not lining up to line anyone's pockets 😅

[@betsymaltby6788]

Excellent commentary. Always a garden enthusiast, I fell down the rabbit hole purchasing some "rare" plants during the pandemic when we were all stuck at home. But when life started again, just had no time to maintain these plants. I have found that what works for me are the plants that thrive in MY home environment not the ones that I have to create an environment for, just like when I started my garden journey many, many years ago.

[@soberplantguy]

I, too, have spent time in the trenches trying to get plants to conform to my conditions. Really didn't work out too well 🤣

[@laurajackson8556]

Perfect timing with this planttalk, Dave. I just made a promise to myself a few days ago that I would NOT buy any plants until I empty all my prop boxes- I mean, what am I doing? Over the last few weeks I have abandoned about 5 shopping carts with “wishlist” plants that I do not have room for! I gave away about 25 starter plants to the local senior center, it was so fun. I bought one Hoya from UPT, and I have so much anxiety that I’m going to kill it! Plus, can you tell me why my H. sunrise will not sun stress? I have been putting the grow light practically in its lap! Happy New Year, can’t wait to see what you share about your orchid journey 🤩

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Giving away plants is low key why I love plants so much… I’d say like 10% of the people I share plants with become interested in the hobby. Pretty good odds! 😂

[@soberplantguy]

I agree with you, all of this. As for the 'Sunrise' that girl takes a lot to sunstress, at for me. Some direct sun in my South window until about noon works pretty well. As do the much cooler temps we're having now. I once bought a very red 'Sunrise' from eBay, and it had so obviously been chemically altered that it was almost (ALMOST) funny.

[@neerajadamarla929]

I love what you said you may already have exactly what you need. I was buying plants more than once a week.. adding grow light to accommodate them. Lately I was pondering the fact that I shouldn't buy plants because it was the best deal I should take care of what I already owned.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

🙏

[@soberplantguy]

We all start off there, and *hopefully* come around to be content with our lovely collections. I'm surprised by how many people in this hobby don't seem that into actually growing plants.

[@melissaaudler8975]

The sunrise is one of my favorites. The sun stressed leaves and tiny little flowers. 🥰

[@shirleycovey7309]

I agree, it was one of the first ones I purchased and the sun stressed leaves are beautiful....altho no flowers yet.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

So lovely- a blushing beauty

[@soberplantguy]

And the lovely scent! I paid $10 for that plant 😊

[@soberplantguy]

You won't be able to avoid them! And your obscura as well (actually, maybe even more so...)

[@dianaybarra9567]

Yes.u.ar.right.im a beginner as u say and I got hooked by the beauty of each one I get. But I look up the care and insects that may like them and how to get rid of them. You have given me that courage to keep on keeping on without obsessing which is my weakness. So thnk u for that. When on a fixed income there is a limit to what one can spend for a plant.

[@soberplantguy]

It takes a while to find contentment in plant care (shoot, in *life*), but it's available 😀

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Yes! I’ve made several local plant friends recently… even though it has required a level of vulnerability I’m not usually comfortable with- having a common interest was all it took to spark up some really special relationships. 🤗

[@soberplantguy]

I'm cursed by actually, genuinely, liking people 🤣😂🤣

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy oh I like people, I just don’t want to be around them.

[@heatherstephens9295]

@@soberplantguy me too & it gets me in trouble sometimes - friends say I’m naive 😂😂

[@heatherstephens9295]

@@hanstera_deliciosa I think that’s great & I totally agree having a common interest is brilliant 👏👏

[@lisaanglim9588]

I just don’t find that when I’m looking 👀

[@SpiritSoulSense]

I'm fascinated by the rare plant concept. I really didn't know plant tube existed back when the hype was the highest. I see videos for the first time talking about the rare plant of that time and when I google I'm shocked at how much the price has dropped in just 2-3 years. It looks like more people are learning from the well documented trends

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

It is an amazing time to be a green ish plant enthusiast!!! 😂

[@soberplantguy]

You nailed it: we know too much 😆 And we're all the better for it. Be well into the next year!

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa Agreed! Anyone who has learned to exercise a little patience can eventually get just about anything they want, at a decent price. *insert exceptions list here

[@helenesolomon]

I've never been able to buy a rare plant as I am on a limited income. I've never been one to long for things I can't have, so that helps. I mostly have the most common of plants although some of them have become rare or sought after plants. I guess because some social media person became enamored of it, so others had to have it. Dave, please never change, you are a breath of fresh air. Also, this Friday was very exciting as you, Basie Plants, and Planted in Rhode Island were posted within a few hours of each other. As always peace to you.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

🙏

[@soberplantguy]

I am happy to be the low man in that trio. Being content with a plant collection, or with life in general, seems to be a very rare thing. For me it has taken years. Other people it comes naturally, and some never find it. I'll take it every single day.

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa Oh, look. It's my biggest cheerleader!!!

[@helenesolomon]

@@soberplantguy I watched you first!

[@soberplantguy]

@@helenesolomon You're an angel 😇

[@BeckyW-c9r]

I enjoy your perspective, please keep it coming 💚

[@soberplantguy]

Thank you so much! Be well into the New Year 😊

[@xeniaboutchard6496]

One of my absolute favourites is my Cast Iron plant (Aspidistra Elatior) with cream stripes 💚 The way the leaves bend is so elegant and it's massive! If I believed what's written about them, they are passé by several decades - but most people wouldn't be able to identify them in a lineup 🤦‍♀️ Find it hard to believe how plants can be unfashionable. I'm now nurturing my Hoyas and hoping they'll grow with time, too!

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Beautiful. Good luck to you and your plants!

[@soberplantguy]

I love that plant, and if I ever see one that isn't really expensive, I have the perfect spot for it! As slow as they grow, there's good reason for them to cost more. Makes sense. As crazy as it sounds to me/is to me, for so many people this hobby seems to have nothing to do with growing plants. "I never water these. All of these are struggling. I haven't looked at these all summer." So on and so forth. I just don't get it.

[@margaretcalifano1617]

The fact that my plant room was already filled saved my pocketbook. I had to be really picky and got reasonable prices

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

This is becoming my problem/solution… space. Time and space, always

[@soberplantguy]

It a good and reasonable strategy in my book!

[@mamakimsplants]

You’re exactly right Dave, I’ve been in this hobby a while to and oftentimes you see plants for sale even at some of the nurseries online selling reverted or low variegated plants because that’s not normal for the plant and it’s not stable. After being in the hobby, I’ve found what I enjoy growing and can grow well, that’s what it’s all about out for me anymore. I enjoy seeing the new “it” plants, but if it costs an arm and a leg and I have to stand on my head and spin around 3 times when I water it to make it survive I’m not interested. 😂

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

This is hilarious

[@soberplantguy]

I would draw the line much, much sooner 🤣😂🤣

[@soberplantguy]

You are .........

[@lisaanglim9588]

😂😂😂

[@soberplantguy]

@@lisaanglim9588 Hi, Lisa!

[@ceciliapacheco6027]

First happy new year,my friend,and you so right thank you for the advice you know so much about it

[@soberplantguy]

You've been a delight to have on the channel. Be well into the next year 😊

[@Diane-ex1os]

Hi Dave MERRY CHRISTMAS 🎄, your paper-whites behind you look great 👍🏽 and thanks for that video sharing with us what to do with those bulbs 😉I did give them to my Daughter for a Thanksgiving gift 🎁 and they’ve been blooming great and a couple of big bulbs to 👍🏽. And for Christmas she did give me a Stag horn Fern 👏👏👏yes!! I love it and she beautiful I just pray she’ll do as well as Yours 😉😎so far there are little leaves coming up wow. But anyway stay warm out there as always love your shows 👍🏽,, Happy New Year Dave stay well and keep on Hoyaing ,, lol New York slang 😎✌🏽

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Isn’t he gorgeous?!

[@soberplantguy]

That's fantastic! I cannot believe the growth mine has had this year. Just nuts!

[@soberplantguy]

I read this as "isn't HE gorgeous" now I'm disappointed

[@Diane-ex1os]

Awwww, 😘

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy edited

[@heatherstephens9295]

Well said Dave 🥳🥳 I did get sucked in a couple of times but I’m pleased to announce common sense has returned & by the looks of it I’m not the only one & that’s why these “Rare” plant shops are in trouble 👍👍

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

I go in and out of “common sense” throughout my day…

[@soberplantguy]

It's impossible to keep the ruse going at this point. Always great to see you, Heather!

[@soberplantguy]

Landing there isn't particularly easy....

[@heatherstephens9295]

@@hanstera_deliciosa 😂🤣😂 I do too, but I’m glad I can get it into gear more often when I’m looking at super duper expensive plants 👍👍

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@heatherstephens9295 Someday…. I’m getting better! I just need to put my phone away!

[@valerieb3182]

Love this video. I just recently began my plant hobby journey, and of course made a wishlist of plants, none of which are considered “rare” because they are too expensive. Right now I am loving my Hoyas I picked up at Lowe’s and holiday cactus from my local grocery store.

[@soberplantguy]

Ok, listen. I've slept on the holiday cactus for years, and picked one up for $12. I freakin' love that thing! What was I waiting for??? And as I said, today's common plant was yesterday's "rare" IT plant. You just didn't have to pony up all that cash 🤣

[@lorettastyles5523]

Dave you are right up my alley😊. I will never break my pocket for a plant that I might have a 50% chance or more of killing 😮 no way. I wait for bargains or freebys😊. I'm so happy you are delving deeper in orchids 😊

[@soberplantguy]

Ah, thank you so much 😊 It's obviously none of my business, but sometimes when I'm watching compulsive shopping for very expensive plants I find myself thinking "Are all the bills being paid this month?" 😆 Quick reminder to myself: just because I can't afford to unbox wishlist plants every week doesn't mean someone else can't easily swing it. And I'm happy to have you share orchid advice anytime I have one on the channel..!!

[@lorettastyles5523]

@soberplantguy you are most welcome 🤗

[@lisaanglim9588]

You’re doing it the right way. Staying slow. I just don’t know if I could be that vulnerable.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Lisa- you’re doing it. You’re amazing. I like ya! 🤣

[@LeslieJermyn]

As someone new to hoya and plant collecting as a 'thing', i appreciate the gist of this piece enormously. It's easy to get influenced to want the next plant but i have to get the first ones on their feet and through the canadian winter (she says, talking herself into ignoring the sales). Happy new year!

[@soberplantguy]

Welcome aboard! And, just a quick favor, please keep your frigid air to yourself......? 🤣

[@LeslieJermyn]

​@@soberplantguy I was always taught to share....you're welcome! 😅

[@deeb2000]

I'm seeing some Etsy sellers using "rare" for wayettii, obovata, fungii, and other common hoyas. In some cases rare can be applied to some hoya variety, ie, RARE: Seldom occurring: Not frequently encountered or scarce Rare can also mean: Having an unusual quality, merit, or appearing superlative or extreme of its kind. Being especially valued for its uncommonness And, of late, many are selling one leaf hoyas for a ridiculous amount that are not worth the price. When I first started collecting hoyas there were a lot of competitive collectors, crazy unboxings and "expert' advice. Well, we live and we learn. Many of us fell into the rabbit hole. As usual thanks for sharing, Dave! I'm taking it slow. Dee, NY

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Great comment, Dee! Hope you’re well.

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks, Dee! I could have made a shorter video that simply said: learn to be content with what you're already growing. The end. 🤣 (That's advice for other people of course, not me.........)

[@deeb2000]

@@hanstera_deliciosa Thanks!

[@taylorhillard4868]

I worked at a greenhouse and still remember dozens of hoya species and cultivars for 4.99 in 4" pots about 15 years ago and all the sidden they fell off the face of the earth and those same exact plants sold as cuttings for 20$ each or more. It was then that i realized plant fads are just total sçams

[@soberplantguy]

@@taylorhillard4868 I think we're beginning to return to normalcy, and quickly.

[@mn4169]

Hey Dave, important subject to tackle. I generally buy plants because They give a buzz or vibe, never because they are rare and expensive. If you love aplant you will take care of it, buying something expensive comes with a lot of responsibilty . P.s if you find it att Lowes it aint rare...

[@soberplantguy]

🤣 If you find it at Lowe's, it's now one of the most mass-produced plants on the planet. Agree with everything you said. Buying plants that we love, whatever the price, and being content, well, that just takes some common sense.

[@hnelson5609]

Oh goody goody!! According to what i think you are saying, I will have an antherium pallidiflorum😅 That is THE last plant I will ever buy. Right now, I can afford one in a 1" pot on Etsy. Thanks for the video❤

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Yes. WILL IT INTO EXISTENCE 😂

[@soberplantguy]

I got a beautiful one from USAmazon plants, or something like that (not Amazon the site). Lovely plant. It needs to do more for me though 🤣

[@soberplantguy]

I'm trying this on a number of fronts. So far I'm zero for several hundred.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguy 🤣

[@ErikaA2582]

One of my most favorite plants in my entire collection of several hundred plants, is a plant I paid 1.00 for. I was in a plant live on Palmstreet and a seller started a Pellionia pulchra at 1.00 and I was the only one that bid on it. It is a beautiful plant, grows very well for me and I'm glad I have it.

[@soberplantguy]

And... you have braggin' rights! Well done 😁

[@linda3808]

It happens with orchids too. I remember Missorchidgirl talked about how much she loved a certain phalaenopsis. And the price went way up! She made a video saying she knew she'd become an "influencer" and that people shouldn't pay so much for that plant. She stopped featuring that orchid quite as much after that.

[@soberplantguy]

I wonder if people are still as easily influenced these days? I find myself not caring at all about what other people are adding to their collections. I'm not sure why 🤣

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@@soberplantguyI agree. Probably because you know what you like? 👍🏼

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa This cannot be true 😆😁😆

[@RMCs]

I love your way of thinking, and I think you are absolutely right about rare plants! Can't wait to see more of you in 2025🎉

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks so much! It should be some good trouble. Or maybe no trouble at all, actually 😂

[@shirleycovey7309]

This is good advice for those that tend to go down the rabbit hole! Thankfully, I have settled on being happy with about a dozen Hoyas which is good since I don't have room for more without getting ridiculous. I cringe when I see anything over $35!!

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

I agree. I’m around 6 large-ish Hoyas and around 10 props. It feels good to watch every new leaf emerge and really experience the growth day to day.

[@soberplantguy]

So you didn't go all-in on that $4000 plant 🤣😂🤣

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa I'm not accustomed to this level of sanity from plant peoples 😆

[@dianemottram3060]

Well I've slowed down on my plant acquiring especially hoyas. Last year was a learning curve and I'm still learning. Learning also which plants I want to nurture and let go of plants just not doing it for me. Learning which plants can handle my various conditions including the space they need. Some of the RIP plants will most of them I won't replace. The thing is that hoyas do take awhile to get growing. The black cat is on the wish list.

[@soberplantguy]

That's a reasonable approach, I think. It really does take time/seasons to figure out what will, and will not, work long-term. Happy to say my Black Cat is doing splendidly after the chop. Be well, and cheers

[@dianemottram3060]

@@soberplantguy Allow me to take up a bit of your head space if you don't mind. Would you consider doing some sort of Q and A format? and you said you chopped up your black cat? What happened? You know I'd be interested in a rooted cutting but waiting for spring.

[@soberplantguy]

@@dianemottram3060 Oh, sure. I love that format with my favorite creators. The 'Black Cat' is looking good, but it hasn't been al that long. No reason to assume anything but the best (my default setting 🤣)

[@leannhillier-jv8wf]

Got that right! I like what I like. I don’t care if it cost 5$ or 25$. I would NEVER spend a stupid amount for a plant. If it’s an “it” plant now-- sneeze and it won’t be. I don’t go down that street.

[@soberplantguy]

Sneeze and no one will remember what you're even talking about anymore 🤣

[@tinybird2413]

I think I fell for an 'it" plant once, spending $40 for a ZZ Raven leaf with a root on it. Fast forward to this year and finding a whole ZZ Raven for under $15. I work in a big box store and recently most of my wishlist plants have showed up for under $20 - Ring of Fire, Billi - and while many sold within the week, there's some still left 3 weeks later. Sadly, they don't discount stragglers anymore, and I see a lot of healthy plants marched to the garbage when they want to make space for different stock and I think that speaks volumes about the state of the plant hobby in my city. I think the hunt and the sense of discovery was really fun for people, but things definitely seem to have slowed down.

[@soberplantguy]

You know what, I was influenced to buy a ZZ, and I still love it! I think mine was $20 at that point. I had, uh, less success with a couple of the Ravens. Wow do those rot out quickly (at least for me). That's a shame those plants get binned. Our Lowes doesn't usually put on plant on clearance until they can be sure it won't sell at any price 🙁

[@tinybird2413]

@@soberplantguy The leaf I bought died quickly but the plant I bought later has been going strong for months. I like philodendrons and the ZZ seems to like similar care to them.Hoyas though - I am learning!

[@PlantedInRI]

Preach, Dave. If it's for sale on Etsy, eBay, or elsewhere online it's not "super rare", "rare", or even "uncommon", and almost anytime you see those words, it simply means overpriced. Growing plants, particularly Hoyas, is not as difficult as some folks make it out to be. This hobby should be fun. It's not a race or a contest. Thanks for saying it out loud.

[@soberplantguy]

I may have come off a little strong at that moment of the video 🤣

[@PlantedInRI]

@@soberplantguy Dave, I know you're from the Midwest (I grew up in the Midwest), and you were probably raised right (and I know that you know what I mean by "raised right", I was, too), but strong feelings are OK and you're allowed to express them.

[@Aweirdmushroom96]

You are just so lovely. So well spoken. Subscribed minutes into the video! Wishing you so much success in 2025 & can’t wait to see more

[@soberplantguy]

wow! Thank you so much, and be well into the New Year 😊

[@theresakennedy238]

Agreed! With flip over in sales. We shouldn't have the only one known of its kind. It belongs in nature. It's own ecosystem we can't replicate.

[@soberplantguy]

In areas being logged, it is oftentimes the only way to save a plant from extinction. However, in the case of the Philo 'Silver Sword,' that's an obscene story of it becoming extinct because of the market. I doubt anyone buying the plant had any idea it was happening, but it's still quite sad.

[@simplydee4522]

👏🪴👏 Dave, you hit the nail on the head with your points.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

👏🏽

[@soberplantguy]

I'm glad you enjoyed it, or at least watched it 🤣 I was a little concerned that I immediately lost a subscriber, but that's been made up for and more now 😆

[@bloodysad]

Another great video! I buy what looks pretty to me and not because it is trending! I love all the Hoya I have and am looking for seeds to grow my own. I think that would be fun! I have grown Rhipsalis and Easter cactus from seed pods on my plants. Great success much to my surprise! I always look forward to your videos for information and for some chuckles! Thank you!

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Growing from seed is exiting! I have a few anthuriums that I’m attempting to grow… what an exercise in patience!

[@soberplantguy]

Ah, glad you've chuckled. Let's go for laugh-out-loud next year 🤣 Do you know Ric, form Ric and Swiffer's Hoyas? He has a private FB page where he sells seeds spring/summer. Great guy, great grower.

[@soberplantguy]

I'm not sure I need yet *another* test in patience 🤣

[@bloodysad]

@@soberplantguy I have a Swiffers Tail Hoya and I love it! Very unusual and beautiful! I have been following him on Facebook for a while now. Great sense of humor too!

[@shadesofidaho]

I am sad to see Kaylee Ellen's shop end. I never bought from her. I just enjoyed seeing her dream emerge and how she handed the massive amount of plants she had to deal with the Living wall. It was all very amazing. Like many here already commented we are already over loaded with plants. So many people kind of new to house plants had no idea the long term care they take. I m going to do another walk through today as I do my watering and try to pull some more plants for give away. Some of my plants I have had for so many years as in 30 to 40 years I feel emotionally attached to them. They will stay. I am also going to stop propagating my cuttings. If some one comes over and likes one of my plants I will chop it on the spot and hand over cuttings. Let them grow them out.

[@soberplantguy]

As someone who is starting over, I feel her pain. I bet her anxiety will be alleviated now that it’s over. So stressful trying to save a business! I’m going to chop a 40 year old tree soon. Eek! And you have a great plan for props: just stop 🤣 I’m the same. If I can’t sell them, they get composted. Period.

[@shadesofidaho]

@@soberplantguy It is often hard to find people to just give plants to. Forget selling them. This is a tiny town of 200 people and 600 or so in my whole zip code. I have pretty much filled the plant needs/wants for people. And those people also shared their cuttings. Kind of like the possible population of rabbits. Good luck on chopping your tree.

[@soberplantguy]

@@shadesofidaho Thank you!

[@Mav4jc]

Can anybody help please. My hoya australis fuzzy back has a weird leaf, tan in the middle and green around the edge. The rest of the plant looks healthy and fine.

[@shirleycovey7309]

Did you recently repot it? I've noticed anytime I repot a hoya, it usually produces an odd shape leaf or two. That's normal, I think.

[@laurajackson8556]

It might be sun stressed? Mine is doing that too, on the newest leaves now that I got some Sansi grow lights.

[@soberplantguy]

Send me a pic to [e-mail] No promises, but I'm happy to take a look.

[@cate7777]

I think "rare plant" is relative. There are many factors as to why that is, location, price and so on. I have also reached saturation, as it were. Space is finite. Plants fall under those same supply and demand rules. When most of the hobbyists run out of room/reach saturation, the demand for new, rare and greatest goes down... except when a plant passes on and needs replacing or some such thing. But if you're good with plants, that is not going to be a frequent occurrence. I think we could and should spend more time learning more about the species and cultivars in our collections before running out to get more plants. I also think if you are a disciplined person, having a wishlist could prevent unplanned purchases. If it is not on that list, you do not buy. I think that what could be happening with all these shop closures is that hobbyists are becoming more measured and less likely to get caught up in the frenzy. I think that many are wise to what they want and do not want.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Oooh…. I hope this catches on with the rest of human society. Moderation. Only taking what is needed etc

[@soberplantguy]

All that you said, and the fact I was trying to make, probably poorly, is that even if a plant is very unavailable right now, there's no way to keep it that way. And don't get me started on altering plants with radiation and chemicals to produce "rare" variegated plants. I mean, for the love of Mike...

[@Kimbermoi]

I remember everyone going absolutely gaga for the Thai Constellation a couple of years ago. I think the most I've paid is $65 for a Ponytail palm and $35 for a Hoya Patricia. 🇨🇦👍

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Respectable purchases! These are reliable and sturdy

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Well… I don’t know about the Patricia… but the ponytail palm has survived me. So… 😅

[@soberplantguy]

Locally, when the Thai Con TC plants started flooding the market, someone on the local FB group said she was sobbing because the grocery store failed to put 2 on hold, as promised. I remember thinking, don't worry. They'll be on clearance soon enough. And yep, they sure were. And I think what you've paid are very decent prices. Plants still cost money--I didn't mean to imply we shouldn't be paying people for all their hard work 😁

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa You have *many* gorgeous plants!!!

[@moiraslater8526]

When Planterina went down you could see others would topple...

[@soberplantguy]

I'm sure that was traumatic and heartbreaking, whatever the story was behind the scenes. There are great nurseries in the US doing wonderfully, but they aren't making it *all* about the super fake "rare" plants, it seems.

[@moiraslater8526]

@soberplantguy I really liked Amanda, she was quirky, experienced, creative and kept plant care simple. You could see she was overwhelmed by whatever was happening in the background. With Kaylee I could never see how her business would remain viable once the plant hype began to wind down. She seemed to outlay huge amounts for plants and all things Lechuza. I would watch her occassionally to see what interesting plants were about. I like being introduced to new and interesting things which Kaylee did well...but her target market was very high end.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

I hope your Patreon will be full of Dave rants…. Quite enjoyable

[@soberplantguy]

How could it not be?

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

@ oh good.

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa I'll probably keep it chill next Sunday, then go wild......

[@cooperbrown6761]

The thing I love about hoya is that it is still somewhat niche compared to monstera, philodendron, alocasia, etc. and there are hundreds of fun varieties. I can go on etsy looking for a type of hoya that I want and throw in one or two hoya from that shop that I’ve never heard of, and now I feel like I have something kind of rare and unique. Even if it isn’t some instagram “it” plant. I can look at my Puom Siam Ruby and think that I have a little something most plant people don’t have.

[@soberplantguy]

Exactly! Just because we haven't heard of it doesn't mean it deserves some huge price tag, and Hoya prove that every single day 😊

[@siggyincr7447]

Yeah, I think I can pretty much agree with everything you said. Max I'll pay for a plant is about $50 and that has to be something really special. With plants that are fairly rare I'll often give cuttings or seedlings to a couple friends as soon as I can to 1. have a source for getting another specimen if mine dies for whatever reason and 2. they do the same for me occasionally. I'll give you word of warning about getting into orchids, that's a "hobby" that can get really out of hand.

[@soberplantguy]

Same on your strategy here. As far as orchids, I'm pretty disciplined in my hobbies, so I *should* be ok 😅

[@RiseandProcraftinate]

Beautiful sentiment. I appreciate cheap and expensive plants alike, but I can only justify buying the more budget friendly ones usually. I have a couple kinda expensive ones, but most aren't. There are many on my wish list that I want that are very expensive, but I have a feeling I will be waiting quite some time for them to be coming down to my budget (Madara Snow Angel and Swiffer's Nightmare, I'm looking at you! Haha!).

[@soberplantguy]

Swiffer's Nightmare?? Haven't seen that one. I'm growing Swiffer's.... think, Dave, think .... Dream--that's it! Sometimes the price collapse can happen so quickly it's almost unbelievable. So I'm rooting for you!

[@RiseandProcraftinate]

@soberplantguy Swiffer's Nightmare is grown by Sara Rosenberg from one of Ric's seeds. It's an open pollinated cross of Swiffer's Dream. It's gorgeous and has variegation that is just stunning! But last I saw, it was going for $2500 for small rooted plants with maybe 1 or 2 nodes. Way, way out of my price range, but good for her for being able to get that price. I totally understand growing plants from seeds is a lot of work. I have lots of seedlings myself.

[@soberplantguy]

@@RiseandProcraftinate OhhhhhhK. Out of my price range too!!

[@CrossCultural-c7f]

I agree with you. The “rare plant” moniker seems like an idea influencers attempted to transplant from the high fashion world (think: Hermes Birkin bag for US$10,000+). “Rare” only works if you can limit supply. By nature, plants naturally grow and reproduce, so one can’t limit supply. This is like the Dutch tulip craze way back in the 1600’s. Per Wikipedia, this tulip mania started in 1634 and collapsed a few years later in 1637. I think history repeated itself 2019-2024 with this rare plant thing.

[@soberplantguy]

And orchids! There was a time when an orchid could buy you a house. But probably not the house that those orchid buyers where living in 🤣 I didn't make the point, but that's what I meant to get around to with my amplifier. Hand made, limited quantity, and not easily replicated. Everything a plant *is not" Thanks for your wonderful comment.

[@lovesyorkies3395]

I know! I saw Kaylee’s video earlier! I still need to check out the other one she mentioned. (podcast? 🤔) The Monstera White Devil had a price tag of $40k! 😱😱😱 INSANE! I went crazy in 2024 with my Hoyas, I’m slowing down in ‘25 to grow these cuttings well. 🤞🏽It seems like Anthurium are all the rage right now. I only have a handful as I kinda suck at keeping on top of the watering and they were reasonably priced. 😬 I got a spiritus sancti for $25 last weekend…I remember when they were so expensive!

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Yup yup yup! We are doing. It. Baby!

[@soberplantguy]

🤣 I didn't want to touch on Anthuriums and watch my subscriber base plummet 😅 So, you're saying that you *didn't* buy that $40,000 plant???

[@samtata5632]

I havent been buying hoyas recently . I am very tightly budgeted . I always hope to buy clippings from hobbyists trimming back low splash or low variegation vines . Let we collectors who have little funds grow out your inferior coloured trimmings . 🤗 Was just very curious what your beautiful amp is for ? Speaking … music ? … home audio ?

[@soberplantguy]

Or.... lots of us give away gorgeous cuttings to people who cannot afford them, or justify it some way 😊 My gorgeous AirTight ATM-1 is for music only. My first lesson in knowing that by not following the trend of the Next Big Thing, I was missing out on nothing 😁

[@anawithplants]

I love your think pieces! completely agree that rare doesn't mean anything anymore in the plant world. let's just collect and care for plants we individually think are cool. 🙂

[@soberplantguy]

"Think" is doing some heavy lifting here, but I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@kathleenstrode455]

Love ya groovy, grow goodies!!❤

[@soberplantguy]

@@kathleenstrode455 😊

[@Wubblyt]

A short reaction to the “you can get good at growing Hoyas” It has a lot to do with the learning curve, finding out what media works in your conditions and with your care. I see a lot of people mindlessly sticking (rooted) cuttings into pon and then they rot and die. But the problem according to them is never the pon “cause it works for everyone else” (the same could happen with a soil mix that doesn’t work in combination with someones care). Some people just take “youtubers” as an example and think what works for those should work for them, without realizing that it may not work for them with their care or with their conditions. (Its starting to bother/frustrate me.. a lot) And yes! You are so right! Whats an it plant… Why can it only be the newest not-yet-available ones…. Why is everyone and their mother promoting those… Why is it all about the shopping and the expensive hauls… Why cant it just be about what we enjoy growing, there are so many plants readily available that can bring so much joy (and yes having one or 2 harder to get or more expensive plants just because you absolutely love them, why not?) Why do we “have to have them all”? (Its not pokemon) The more we are being influenced, the more dissatisfied we get. (Like you I rehomed many a plant that I didnt love but realized I got it because of “influencers”) The more we think realistically, the happier we get.. its simple… keep it simple Im realizing more and more… that the easygoing ones are the best ones.. They still need care, they are still rewarding, they give the least stress and theres plenty of them to choose from (now what do I do with my more needy plants 😅🤣) Mosspoles… plants that NEED high humidity, plants that NEED higher temperatures… sure I can keep them alive and do (from ok to) well, but all the things I have to do for them, the things I need to have for them, the twice a week watering some of them want…. They are pretty, yes, but is it worth it? Im not sure (anymore)

[@soberplantguy]

In short, I agree with all of the above 😂 And there are plenty, plenty of more obscure Hoya that are cheap and easy to grow. As a genus, in the whole, they just aren't that difficult if we can provide decent conditions. Certainly here in Iowa, I'm proving that much, anyway. Honestly, I didn't think people would love this video (it's starting off as the best performing of any I've ever posted). But figured some newcomers--or not newcomers--might resonate with it. As ALWAYS, so good to hear from you !!

[@Wubblyt]

@ definitely, there are so many rewarding ones (also off of the general “radar”) it is fun to explore them and watch them do well Encouraging to hear that many people appreciate this topic 😊 Im happy that some people now voice out their concerns/annoyance with the “industry” part of houseplants “Community” wise we would just prop and share plants (or I would), Id like to have more community and less industry (somehow)

[@soberplantguy]

@Wubblyt Strange and weird and wonderful, and I'm just happy to be alive and enjoying (most) of it 😂

[@Wubblyt]

@ same, same 😊 Tried to find that channel you were talking about (just out of curiosity), cant find it 😅🤣

[@faithewarren-agee5604]

I am putting a lot of effort into not buying plants just to add to my collection. I've never purchased "rare" plants because I just can't afford them. I'm very focused on caring for the plants I have and love. Thanks so much, Dave, for such a thoughtful video.

[@soberplantguy]

That's the kicker, Faith. I'd wager you have some plants that at one time were considered rare. As I said, chasing those plants is a fool's errand. You and I will just chill until they're inevitably cheap 😂

[@faithewarren-agee5604]

@@soberplantguy Amen, Brother!

[@rogerbox2540]

I see advertisements for rare plants that aren’t very rare. In fact, fairly common

[@soberplantguy]

Yep, everything for sale is "rare," "very rare," or "super duper rare" 😂

[@Isirius77]

An interesting topic with the high-priced plants. There are so many Hoya variations (and Calathea) that are both affordable and absolutely beautiful. Why should I spend so much money on one plant when there are at least 30 other Hoyas I don’t have yet? I look for the ones I like and that are reasonably priced. It doesn’t have to be expensive to be beautiful.

[@soberplantguy]

Exactly, exactly, exactly.

[@WoodlandT]

This is just about the most refreshing thing I’ve ever heard. I’m just so done with all the BS, not just plant BS, all the permeating, inescapable BS. Fortunately, though we may not be able to entirely escape, we can choose just not to participate. I choose to pass lol

[@soberplantguy]

I’m really glad that you enjoyed it 😊

[@newmanmansell760]

Different strokes for different folks Dave😅🙌

[@soberplantguy]

I have often been called "different," though I'm not sure it means the same thing 😂

[@jodidelong3663]

Really well done discussion. Like you, I feel a bit badly for Kaylee Ellen and the Pretty in Pink guy, but some of us who have been addicted to plants (outdoors AND in) for more years than both of those folks have been alive... well, we're not surprised by the boom and bust. Just my opinion, but there is NO houseplant worth more than 100 bucks, at least not for me. I'm a patient gardener indoors and was quite content to wait for Thai Constellation Monstera to drop to a sensible price from the medium triple digits. (I got mine for 34.99 a year or so back). Hoyas, I have more than 100 different species and cultivars, but I don't pay ridiculous amounts for them, I have lost a few and fought with mealy bugs and so on, but I enjoy them; not enough to obsess over getting the newest/greatest. Because MY plants make ME happy and that's what it is all about, right? One of the things that has fascinated me, in the pre-covid times as well as now, is this insane pricing of indoor plants. I have a substantial perennial and shrub garden outside, with more than 100 cultivars of daylilies, a varied collection of dwarf shrubs and trees, many cool perennials that attract pollinators--and thankfully, the prices of outside plants have not gone bonkers, not like indoor tropicals. I don't see videos here raving about the latest echinacea or gentian or dwarf ginkgo--maybe there are channels but I haven't been looking either, to be fair. Gardening is a joy and ought to be enjoyed by anyone, not just the people with more money than sense who think they have to be trendsetters or influencers or whatever. I am also seeing some of the youtubers downsizing their plant collections because they have realized that they take work, and maybe more work than expected or wanted. Meanwhile, I just keep doing what I do, enjoying the channels I do subscribe to, learning from some and just revelling in the pleasures of plants. Thanks!

[@soberplantguy]

I agree with all of this. I've never once been sitting with my indoor garden thinking, I wonder what some stranger on the internet would think about this? 🤣

[@emilyinthewoods]

Grabbed my popcorn 🍿

[@soberplantguy]

I doubt it lived up to the popcorn, because nothing is better than popcorn. Fact 😁

[@kathrynrobinson670]

Right on!

[@soberplantguy]

It looks like I found my choir to preach to 🤣

[@BLANKU2]

I don't do trends I mean if you're a long term plant person you know in two years you'll find it everywhere lol. I have channels I follow to see others trials and tribulations so I know going in what to for the best results on a certain plant. A plant has to spark joy with me or finding a diamond in the rough of a clearance rack and getting that kid to thrive. I think we all have out do or die favs. 4k on a plant? Ouch. A recent find for me was at a estate sale and the person running it overheard a conversation I was having and I was asked to step into another room and came home with a some huge plants for free. Ya never know how life will gift you with things.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

This. THIS is why I need to go to more Estate sales… Old people’s neglected, sexy plants.

[@soberplantguy]

I love it when the universe delivers those gifts to us! And I love PlantTube. I just don't love compulsive buying channels. But hey, that's me. People love 'em.

[@lisaanglim9588]

I don’t buy expensive plants. It’s just not in my budget. I tried an o line auction and the price when clickrety, clicker right past my face and was way out of my price in no time. I only buy what has a stated price. I’ve found Palm street has a bunch of great plant sales if you’re at all patient. Not looking for rare plants. There’s too many common plants I don’t have already that o still want.

[@LoulousCorner]

I saw a pink princess in the Lidl the other day, it was only €7 😂

[@soberplantguy]

The hysteria around that plant was really something to see/watch. And then when the first round of TC came out and they were all ... brown ... and people were filling up shopping carts. Wowza.

[@rebeccahenderson7761]

I think the names of plants are really attractive to people and makes them think they are special. I have a sunrise. It's no big deal, it's got red leaves, but the green that's faded as a result I think is dull and unattractive, but boy it has a cool name. There are lots of others just like that - designed to 'sell.'

[@soberplantguy]

Unrelated note: I'm trademarking a Hoay I'm calling 'Rocket's Red Fiery Glare" next year 🤣

[@terrybracy403]

Love it

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks for the nice comment!

[@romanantonioviray1643]

a plant can also be rare because no one is propagating it (not to interesting to have a demand). i have seen some asian nurseries claiming that the plant they are selling is not tc'd. i doubt it. mos

[@soberplantguy]

For sure. I definitely have some very rare plants in my collection (aka, can't give 'em away 🤣)

[@LauraStansfield-tw7xb]

Much like the "ghost orchid". Any real fans of orchids and people who care about the plants knew better than to be buying these orchids that are close to extinction... And we know it'll come back around once it's been produced legally. Now the price has dropped considerably even a year later. Yes it's beautiful... But how many gorgeous orchids are there already??? And I know I'd never spend that and possibly not have the capability of growing it. Some of my favorite orchids are the ones I paid little to nothing for or they were given to me to rescue. And that's not for their significance or rarity. It's for the progress and the efforts I got to experience and help influence. Nice video. ^_^

[@soberplantguy]

I agree with this 100%. I don't know if you saw how popular the Philo Silver Sword was as few years ago? That was poached into extinction in its native land. Obscene, just obscene.

[@od.vandeveer]

The rotten thing is when you are searching for a plant that used to be common and now you can't find it anywhere. Only websites with sold out. I finally managed to find a brassavola nodosa plant after years of searching, not considered rare but very hard to find where I live in Europe. I have a sunrise but it is harldy growing and not very special, I think I prefer the ganuhng gudung and certainly the Hoya caudata with those amazing hairy flowers

[@soberplantguy]

Those are all fantastic plants! I'm happy to now have 4 flowers on my Brassavola nodosa 😊

[@od.vandeveer]

@@soberplantguy Great, I would appreciate to see them and get some advise on the care.

[@amymarshall1829]

As much as I find the whole idea of an "influencer" to be such a cringey concept, you see the affects play out in the trends associated with houseplants. And, I'll admit, I've fallen "under the influence" a few times. I got a Phil Pink Princess (I only paid $32) just because people had been losing their minds over it. I loathed that plant. Just today, I saw a $50 Thai Con and wondered if I should get it just because it had been such an expensive plant for so long. I KNOW I don't want a Monstera Deliciosa in my collection (too big!), but it did give me pause. So, am I immune to the hype? Nope. But, I do find that -- as this chapter in my plant journey continues -- I'm focusing in on just growing the plants that I like -- most of which are not "It" plants -- influencers and plant snobs be danged.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

All of the above 👏🏽

[@soberplantguy]

Couldn't agree more, Amy. Especially on that stupid PP. That is the ugliest plant that ever came out of TC and to have hit the market. I'm influenced to buy plants, but it's by people who grow plants that I like, in conditions similar to mine. So in that type of sense. As for plant snobs, I think you know where I stand 🤣😂🤣

[@soberplantguy]

@@hanstera_deliciosa Perfectly stated, indeed.

[@paxleidig5327]

You've touched on a "nerve" here. I find it frustrating when a Plant Channel "guru" doesn't give us their conditions. Heck, HALF the time they don't even tell us what part of the world they live in! Oh sure, everyone's quick to give the disclaimer "...this is what works in my growing conditions..." but they don't tell us what those conditions are. Hello! Why don't they give us a blurb in the channel description: humidity & temp ranges, light, substrate... You know a few basics! Dave has outlined his conditions better than most repeatedly through his videos. Which is why I'm able to actually make use of his more detailed information and adjust things to MY conditions. Thanks again Dave!

[@soberplantguy]

I saw that first line and thought, Uh oh, we're about to have our first argument 🤣 Thanks for the kind words, as always.

[@FredLeyda]

Only speaking the truth as I see it.

[@soberplantguy]

@@FredLeyda As always!

[@taylorhillard4868]

Ive always thought the only plants that should be expensive and rare are newly bred cultivars and hybrids, but only between the breeder and the grower they sell the rights to. No normal person has any business buying those things because they will never be able to compete with professional mass production. And if you want to try your hand at breeding the next big thing, by all means, but know that youre probably not going to find it. Hobbyists do sometimes strike gold, but the vast majority of new cultivars and hybrids come from breeding programs that grow entire fields and greenhouses full of seedling in the hopes that one will stand out enough to market as a new plant. My philosophy is: grow the plants you like, and nurture them into unique specimens. They will be far more special and loved.

[@soberplantguy]

Agree with everything you said. I spend no time wondering if my collection is "rare enough," whatever that might mean 🤣

[@derekloveshorror]

KSB 01-sounds like a Star somewhere in the galaxy. There is an elitism with regard to plants that sadly keeps the masses away from enjoying plants. “60 dollar flower” sounds like a labor of love. My wife might hug me, not divorce me. I think plants should be enjoyed by all. My wife has autism and her special interest is plants, and by a close second…you. But seriously the cost for something so natural is exorbitant. It’s sad. Popularity and the cost as a result is just a symptom of our society (not the eastern orchid society) at large. Keep up the great work!

[@soberplantguy]

Thanks, Derek! I might add, however, that a lot of those "VERY RARE" plants are anything but natural. They cook them with radiation, chemically alter them, etc and so on. So "rare" my behind, to be polite. And I'm nothing if not polite 🤣

[@Thorned_Rose]

It also ties into capitalism and artificial scarcity mindset - cry "rare" and people are more likely to get FOMO and buy. There is a tree in my country that was, at one time, considered the rarest tree in the world (the Three Kings Kaikōmako). Many years ago I bought a friend a seedling (individually numbered) of it for a very reasonable price (about US$15) as a wedding present (true love is rare blah blah lol) and it was so cheap because conservationists WANTED it to not be rare. It's important to conserve and protect by sharing far and wide. Hoarding plants to maintain their 'rare' status to get more money also puts that plant at risk of being forever lost. Even just from that perspective, selling 'rare' plants just for being 'rare' is a terrible idea.

[@theresakennedy238]

Yep. The PPP History behind its hype!!

[@soberplantguy]

That was just crazy to watch play out. And then all of those brown TC plants that people were filling their shopping carts with. I was totally confused 😆

[@Winstonsmom]

I have been so excited about plants since rarer species have become available. But not because they are rare per se... just loving the increased variety. You get kind of bored with golden pothos and spider plants you know? That said, I have fallen in love with episcias. Are they rare? Not in Africa or Brazil. But I live in a cold, arid climate. You cannot buy these in shops here and shipping is iffy especially in the winter. The foliage on these things is spectacularly beautiful. But if you skip watering for 2 weeks? Dead. Still, this and african violets are my jam. And if I can score a new and unusual variety, all the better. They aren't particularly expensive. So what? These are plants that I cultivate for the sheer joy of it and if I can prop and sell to the locals for a reasonable price...just sharing the joy. Just my opinion of course.

[@soberplantguy]

You said it better than I did. Unusual plants are fantastic, but people hyper-inflating the price of plants just because we haven't heard of them, yet, is not great, and not sustainable. Just think about a Hoya selling for $1500 per node, when there a zillion other Hoya you've also never collected that cost penny's on the dollar. You and I are on the exact same page 😊

[@GreenWitch1]

I’m with you Dave. I have a Monstera Obliqua Peru. It’s a terrible plant pushing out runners more so than leaves. Thankfully, I only paid $25 for it. I want plants that I enjoy and don’t cause problems. Those don’t stay in my collection. I am more educated than when I started 45 years ago and I have magnificent looking plants that make me smile 😊 With regard to Kaylee, I’m sorry but she didn’t do her due diligence before she jumped in head first. Trends come & go. Age & experience are the best teachers!

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

Hot Take! 😂

[@50bladesofgrey43]

I’ve never viewed plants as *that* wildly expensive, even the expensive ones. Many plants quickly make more new plants. Philodendrons, Monsteras, Alocasias, etc. For example, I paid $100 for 10 wet sticks of Monstera Obliquas. I now have 10 decent sized plants. $10 per plant when it was still “rare” and if I cared to I could cut up the plants to make even more from cuttings. Meanwhile 1 nice plant during the hype period would’ve been $100-150. The people that get burned the worst are those that want the big plant NOW. If you go seed or via stick even the most expensive plants become relatively affordable even during a hype period. Just be sensible about it and you can have the hot new thing and some money left in your wallet.

[@soberplantguy]

Agreed! The people getting burned I meant to refer to were resellers spending tens of thousands at a time trying to chase the market. Lots of sad stories there. Glad you and I have found some sensible ground ☺️

[@tomfurmby88]

hold on hold on, you are telling me plants grow by themselves and there's no super duper secret to it? Geez, I thought I was special in some way that my garden was overgrown with weeds. I thought it was my special karmic energy that only I possessed. You have put a downer on my new year and I think I will have to get out the hedge cutter and cut all the overgrown brambles down in the new year now.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

😂😂😂

[@soberplantguy]

I def didn't mean to add to your work load 🤣😂🤣

[@xaniabrown2468]

Lord Dave, stop talking! If you disappear, we'll know... maybe... where to point the police.

[@hanstera_deliciosa]

😂

[@marialakshmi2330]

😂😂😂

[@xaniabrown2468]

The man is a hidden national treasure, out here spilling secrets like the illumiplanty won't try and get him. Are you microchipped or air tagged Iowa City, Iowan bestie?

[@soberplantguy]

Not that I know of? But now I'm kinda worried about it......

[@soberplantguy]

You're not the first person to suggest that I should stop talking 🤣

[@cookiez132]

I was so sad for Kaylee 😢 and as well for all the other shops . but it’s true there’s just no money in it anymore

[@soberplantguy]

I'm happy to hear that her plant food company is safe and doing well 😊

[@cookiez132]

@ yeah i’m glad she had something for back up , but i still empathize for those who didn’t have any back up plans 😔

[@soberplantguy]

@@cookiez132 💯

[@ClaireSiconolfi]

While I believe in the concept of ‘to each their own’, I absolutely refuse to personally buy ‘rare’ or ‘trendy’ plants. If someone else wants to chase after the currently trendy or expensive plant then all the power to them, but that’s not my style. I refuse to pay ridiculous prices for plants, most of mine have come from big box stores or the local nursery for less than $20, usually less than $10. The most expensive plant I’ve ever purchased was $40, and that’s only because of the incredible root system it has and how healthy it looks. Do I watch a bunch of videos with that type of content, sure. Do I make a mental note of plants that I like for eventually (potentially!) adding to my home, absolutely. However, when I purchase a plant it’s because I find it visually appealing, and I already know the location around my home where it will be placed. I’m a decorator, not a collector. Also, I much prefer plain green plants.

[@soberplantguy]

This is the sane way to do things (in my humble 🤣). But it's so common to see new people to the hobby throwing tons of money at "rare" plants over and over and.... And end up frustrated and burned out. Contentment takes a reasonable approach to this terrific hobby of ours.

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

Just buy what you like, as oppose to being told what to like,,,

[@soberplantguy]

This is true, but would have made for a very short video 🤣😂🤣

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

@ well you can always re-cut it,😃😃😃

[@leannhillier-jv8wf]

Have you ever watched happiness garden for orchid info. I enjoy him! (Not as much as you of course ).😅

[@soberplantguy]

Oh, good save! I haven't it, but will fire him up right after I get caught up here! Thanks, Leann! (Just looked him up: he only has a MILLION subscribers+??? Seems too new 🤣)

[@_VICK_]

When I bought one of her $50 tshirts that arrived in 2 months and was literally falling apart at the seams (threads literally coming off the shirt) I knew a lot of this was all smoke and mirrors.

[@soberplantguy]

I think other people had issues with quality control on that third party vendor. I know a couple took a pause while they shopped for a new one. Sorry that happened--ouch

[@mikenealon4042]

before ANY plant purchase, i ask myself- do i have the time energy resources money experience needed to make this plant thrive? rare is a word bandied about FAR too much. during the pandemic years, so many you tubers unboxing "rare" gem$, have withered away. that being said, whiteslonea crassa pseudolithos gigas, & horwodii gardenia imperalis, aqualla, colettiana, conferta, oudiepe, saxatilis, urvillei, are truly rare are truly rare

[@soberplantguy]

That's a sane approach to curating a collection. And for sure, there are actually rare plants in this crazy world of ours, it's just not every single new plant that we haven't heard about. Cheers from Iowa City

[@jennifercormier4768]

👏👏👏

[@soberplantguy]

😊

[@suedoughnim6665]

Respectfully, it’s transparent that you have no experience with Tillandsias and in all likelihood very little experience with bromeliads like Neoregelia, Hohenbergia and Billbergia. Tillandsias can be a little tricky depending on your geographical location but bromeliads are a piece of cake. There are well over 600 species of Tillandsias and hundreds of hybrids. I know of a variegated one that sells for 1500. But most of them are nowhere near that expensive. I’ve converted a number of friends to Tillandsias and Bromeliads and they can’t get enough. In addition I know vendors who sell plants you usually won’t find anywhere else. Rarity is not a myth. . It has nothing to do with being sophisticated. It has everything to do with surrounding yourself with an environment that makes you happy.

[@soberplantguy]

True, none of those are on my radar. But I was really focusing on the implosion of the hyped-up "rare" plant market that has been collapsing. So I'm not sure what your'e getting at, but do appreciate you posting a comment. Cheers from Iowa City

[@suedoughnim6665]

@@soberplantguyI think our perspectives diverge because what you refer to as a rare plant market appears to apply primarily to potted plants. I was looking at the market with a larger scope of genuses. In any event I can’t recommend tillandsias and bromeliads enough. If you haven’t tried them you don’t know what you’re missing. It’s the botanical equivalent of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. The surreal shapes and outstanding colors on many of them will blow you away. If you’re at all curious google Tillandsia xerographica, Tillandsia duratii and Tillandsia ehlersiana. Those are the tip of the iceberg. For bromeliads Google Neoregelia Hannibal Lecter, Hohenbergia Leopoldo Horstii Dark Clone and Billbergia Incendiary Delight.

[@soberplantguy]

@@suedoughnim6665 Ah, gotcha. And as little as I know about those plants, I definitely think they are super cool looking!

[@lilagood1963]

I’m so glad I stopped following all the plant consumption videos on KZbin channels years ago. It got ridiculously expensive and I knew it was time to disappear for a while - knowing these are JUST plants THAT CAN DIE…

[@ot7stan207]

Im done with people buying plants like decore, its time to focus on GROWING them.

[@soberplantguy]

Right? It's actually fun. It is my daily mediation. Just don't get people who buy zillions of plants, and then neglect them all.

[@theresakennedy238]

Albo

[@soberplantguy]

Yeppers.

[@OnceuponanOrchid]

I disagree that the name rare plant is not relevant. In the world of orchids, there are still many rare plants because the species are hard to cultivate and propagate. The other are hybrids that have won an award in the past and have not been widely cultivated but its been used to create many of the modern day hybrids.

[@soberplantguy]

I even specified orchids as an example of a truly rare plant. But that was not the type of “rare” plant I was talking about throughout this video topic. Cheers from Iowa City

[@OnceuponanOrchid]

@@soberplantguy True True...I am going to upload my thoughts on the closure of The Rare plant shop as well and relate it back to orchids because it is orchids that led me to a life long career in horticulture.

[@soberplantguy]

@@OnceuponanOrchid While I'll never approach your level, I'm sure enjoying learning more about them. I'm looking forward to having a collection that blooms throughout the year! Baby steps 😆

[@OnceuponanOrchid]

@@soberplantguy I am glad you have caught orchid fever and yes baby steps like all hobbies. One plant at a time.

[@Freemasonry]

Rare plants are the ones nobody wants

[@soberplantguy]

In which case, I have several 🤣

[@minhja4924]

Yeh growing Hoya is not hard . It do just like any other plants . Lol. Yeh silly people pay big money for plants . I don’t get it . During the pandemic, we all go crazy about plants to cop. That is over. I am not paying more than 20 bucks for a plant nowadays . Hoya should be 5-10 bucks. There still people trying hard to sell plants at high prices. All the sellers just buy from each others . The snake is eating its own tail hehehe

[@soberplantguy]

Thus the never-ending supply of the latest and greatest ....

[@minhja4924]

@ oh yeh they are now all splash, sliver and variegation. Hahaha all look same same lol

[@saraellman7844]

I have never jumped onto the rare plant train. I do currently have around 150 plants and the most expensive one I purchased was a 40.00 Thai constellation from Steve’s Leaves, it was on sale and a good size for the price. I buy plants that I find visually appealing to me not ones pushed by a KZbinr. Love you no nonsense style and subscribed today!

[@soberplantguy]

Hey, hey! Thanks so much. And you have a sane approach to this wonderful hobby, it sounds. I love Steve's Leaves. Many happy purchases from them. Cheers from Iowa City 😊

[@TamBay-c2n]

Buying plants is also like a painting

[@Lucas-Greenhouse]

Coming from the cacti and succulent world i couldn’t agree with you more. I was always very curious why people pay thousands of euro for plants that are propagated and grown SO fast. There was no relation for me since the plants I grow and sell go for 10-15€ mostly after they grew for 4-5 years and I am really happy that my side of the plant-world was mostly untouched by the hype (there is no way I could keep up if there were trends in Cacti that fast living like with the jungle plants) Also I feel like most people got to the point in the hype that they were not even able to enjoy what they were growing because there was always another chase plant to obtain after getting one. I hope we can slow down with this again and get to enjoy the stuff we already have and grow instead of the „Next big thing“ Greetings from Germany 🫶🏻

[@soberplantguy]

I could have made a 30 second short and used this word-for-word. Thank you for your thoughtful comment 😊