Plants? In Chicago?

Ah, yes, Chicago. A concrete jungle of sorts, and definitely not the first place you think of when it comes to plants, but one hiding some gems when it comes to greening up your own space. As an avid plant lover, I have made it my mission to explore what the city has to offer in terms of plants for the home. While I gravitate more towards succulents and cacti, I have unearthed some locations that fit the bill on many fronts. Here are my favorite spots.

Adams and Son Gardens

1057 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

This location is quaint, but brings the family owned charm. While not the ideal choice for cacti due to lack of variety, they are in fact, my top choice for house plants. I bought a little Croton the other day, and it was only $3! It is way more manageable to buy tiny versions of common houseplants, and get to enjoy the process of watching them grow! Cheaper too. Another bonus, they have all sorts of terra cotta pots to get your gardening in order that are also very affordable in price. Also, their air plant selection and prices can't really be beat.

Gethsemane Garden Center

5739 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60660

Top notch for Cacti! Let me tell ya. From tiny barrel cacti to a huge, hundred dollar saguaro, you have options at any price range. The affordability of the plants is right on point and they have houseplants, citrus trees, air plants, cacti and more. The indoor greenhouse is a place I honestly might just come to hang out and bask in the glory of plants. Friendly staff is also a plus. I was debating what to buy, just staring at the cacti very distraught, for at least 20 minutes and was approached many times to see if I needed any help. Great people, great atmosphere and great plant selection.

Christy Weber Farm and Garden

2833 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60612

Cute, cozy and chickens. That's right, chickens. I was just checking out the plants when BAM, there they were peeking in from behind a glass door. This one is super close in proximity to Adams and Son if you are planning a plant hunt, take note. Though I visited in the winter, during the spring and summer their outdoor space is hoppin' with garden starting herbs and vegetables, and landscaping plant galore. Indoors however, they offer quite the selection of cacti, succulents and house plants. Again, I walked away with two very solid cacti that were new varieties to my collection. From small pots to larger ones, there is enough variety to be worth a trip. The houseplants again, are luscious, healthy and abundant. Definitely the place to check out if you have the space to garden, but also delivers on smaller scale offerings as well.

Sprout Home

745 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

While a little more of a boutique style store, there is still much to see. Think plants, but also accessories. From materials to design your own terrarium, to cute pots and planters, even someone as cheap as me can find something that suits their fancy here. Air plants and cacti are my go-to items here, but even just looking around is worth the trip in my opinion. With vined plants hanging from the ceiling and bits and baubles to sift through, this chic, trendy spot is good for a few shots of plant inspiration.

A New Leaf (Location 1)

1818 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614

Would it be sad to admit that I have been here at least five times since discovering it? This floral shop is characterized by brick walls and an eclectic but chic vibe. From flowers to candles to pots to cacti, there are plenty of things to ooh and aah over. While the cactus and succulent selection is not enormous, the huge plus is the votive wall in the basement that boasts perfectly sized containers to plant a cute little cactus. Another bonus, if you buy both the planter and plant there they will plant it up for you on the spot! Again, I would say I am more drawn to this place for the charm and vibe than the plant selection, but they have it all and it is one of my favorite spots for sure.

A New Leaf (Location 2)

1645 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614

A sister store to the location a bit further north, this location has a vibe of its own. The same good things apply, but the charm of the whitewashed brick, multiple levels and almost maze-like location are unique to this space. A better cacti selection in my opinion for variety at least, but also more to look at. With sections for orchids, hanging plants, bows and ribbons and even a second level with greenhouse outcrops and pots, this store is just as fun to explore as it is useful for a purchase. I would not count this location out due to being a sister store, because it truly shines as its own in this space.

Green Inc.

1718 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60614

Another one that has the atmosphere down to a tee. While not the most spacious, this flower shop has it covered on unique items. From cool, stand-out pots to vibrantly decorated walls, I could not stop staring. They also have a cactus and succulent selection, so do not be afraid to ask since they are a kind of hidden inside, but definitely visible from the window. Maybe not worth a stand-alone trip, but if you are in the area checking out A New Leaf, it is worth popping in.

Afraid to commit?

First of all, don't be, but if you are, here are some other options for getting in the plant zone without investing.

Garfield Park Conservatory

300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624

A favorite. Hands down. Is it sad to admit that I go here at least once a month? Free to all, but gladly accepts donations, this plant heaven has it all. From a tranquil pond with blown glass accents to my personal favorite, the cactus room, this fairly extensive natural journey through the different rooms is one worth making. Outdoor gardens are present too, a must see during the warmer months. Luckily the indoor show rooms are warm and inviting all year round to warm up even the most intense winter blues.

Lincoln Park Conservatory

2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614

While not as extensive as Garfield Park, this conservatory is just as free and just as tropical. While is does not boast a cactus room, there is plenty of room for exploration just the same. Another hidden gem to explore during the cold months of winter, it is also vibrant year round. The orchid and air plant room here is my favorite, featuring a fish pond and planters and vines dangling from all around.

Chicago Botanic Garden

1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022

While a bit of a hike for a city living girl like me, it was worth the trip. From the conifer garden to the bonsai tree collection, there is abundant variety at this 385 acre space. A bonus for cacti lovers, there is an amazing cactus room here as well that brought quite the smile to my face. I went during the summer and had plenty of time to stroll the paths, see the gardens and overall, enjoy a relaxing afternoon.