You’ll need to be, or become, an expert on all sorts of indoor plants. But, you do not have to be worried about that. There are many books and web sites that can help you. Although you may be quite able to tend to a plant that lives in a greenhouse or a protected corner of your home, your clients (or more precisely, the plants of your clients) will exist in a threatening world: They may not receive proper light or temperature conditions, and they likely will be subject to accidental or intentional abuse from visitors. Among the challenges you’ll be called on to deal with are as follows:
• Matching plants to the available lighting in an office, public place, or home
• Managing proper watering and fertilizing schedules
• Dealing with plant diseases and insect infestations
• Repairing damage caused by visitors who touch or cut plants
You should also be aware of which plants are poisonous if eaten by children or pets. For installations in a doctor’s office, you might want to submit a list of plants unlikely to activate allergies for approval by the medical staff. You can perform much of your research over the Internet at web sites about plants; there are also many excellent reference books about selection and care of greenery. Visit area greenhouses and garden specialists to learn about available plants, fertilizers, cleaners, and tools. One or more of these stores may be the place you shop for plants and supplies, and they should be glad to partner with you.