Are Plants from the Hardware Store Safe to Use In Reptile Enclosures?

It's no secret; Live plants in reptile enclosures creates a habitat that is both beautiful to look at AND enriching for your reptile. But if you’ve ever found yourself wandering through the garden center at your local hardware store wondering, “Can I use plants from the hardware store in my reptile enclosure safely?” — the answer is: maybe, but with caution.

Here’s what you need to know about the risks, and how to make plants that you buy from anywhere safer for your pet:

1. 

Pesticides and Chemical Residue Are a Big Concern

Most plants sold at big-box stores (like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Menards) are treated with systemic pesticides and fertilizers to keep them pest-free and growing well while on the store shelves. These chemicals can remain in the plant tissue for weeks or even months, which can pose a risk to your reptile — Especially if they are a species that is likely to nibble on their plants (We're looking at you, Bearded Dragons and Uromastyx!)

🛑 If purchasing a plant from the hardware store, repot it immediately into clean, reptile-safe soil and quarantine it for at least 30–60 days. During that time, deeply water the plant to allow the plant to flush any systemic pesticides from within AND shower the leaves to rinse off any foliar chemicals.

2. 

Research the Plant Species

Not all plants are safe for reptiles — some common houseplants like pothos, ivy, or aloe are frequently successfully used in reptile tanks, but others can be toxic. Always double-check that the plant you’re considering is safe to use with reptiles, and likely to grow in the conditions within your enclosure.

Check our our article about Plants That are Dangerous For Reptiles!

We have articles of our Top 5 Plants for several species including Bearded Dragon, Crested Gecko, Leopard Gecko, Corn Snake, Blue Tongued Skink, Tegu, and Chameleon!

3. 

Failsafe Option: Buy from Reptile-Safe Sources

If you want to skip the guesswork, buy plants from sellers who specialize in bioactive or vivarium setups. These shops often grow plants without pesticides and in conditions that are already suitable for reptiles and amphibians. You’re paying a bit more for peace of mind — and it’s worth it!

Check out online reptile specialized retailers like Josh's Frogs! 

TL;DR:

• Hardware store plants are not automatically safe.

• Quarantine and repot if you choose to use them.

• Double-check plant species safety

• Specialty sellers are the safest source for vivarium plants.

A naturalistic setup can be awesome for your reptile — just make sure you’re not turning their home into a chemical hazard. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask experienced keepers or check trusted plant toxicity lists before planting!