Artificial Plants FAQ - Care, Costs, and Common Questions
Answers to the most-asked questions about artificial plants, silk trees,
vertical gardens, artificial grass, and green walls in South Africa.
Pricing in ZAR, care guidance, longevity, pet safety, and honest advice
for both real and artificial greenery.
Artificial Grass
- How much does artificial grass cost per square metre in South Africa?
- Artificial grass in South Africa typically costs between R375 and R750 per square metre supplied and installed, with premium grades reaching R700–R850 per m² fully installed (supply, labour and sub-base included). Standard play and pet grades run about R350–R450 per m², while entry-level DIY turf can start around R160–R200 per m² excluding installation. Your final price depends on pile height, quality and how much ground preparation is needed.
- Does artificial grass get hot in summer?
- Yes - synthetic turf absorbs and retains heat in direct sun and can get significantly hotter than the air, because it cannot cool itself through transpiration like living grass. A BYU study recorded a turf surface of 200°F (93°C) on a 98°F (37°C) day. In South Africa's high-UV climate, a quick hose-down, light-coloured fibres and shade from trees or pergolas keep it comfortable, and it cools once the sun moves off. One can always hose it down to cool an area.
- Is artificial grass safe and suitable for pets and dogs?
- Yes - quality artificial grass is non-toxic, permeable and ideal for pets. It drains urine, resists digging, and won't leave muddy paws or bare patches from repeated use. Choose pet-grade turf with good drainage and rinse occasionally to prevent odour. On very hot, sunny days, test the surface with your hand first - any surface above about 50°C can burn skin quickly. Distinctive Spaces' Instagrass gives children and pets a safe, clean, always-green play area.
- How long does artificial grass last?
- High-quality artificial grass typically lasts 15–25 years with professional installation and light maintenance, and most manufacturers back their turf with product warranties of 7 years. Actual lifespan depends on foot traffic, UV exposure, drainage and pile quality - high-traffic and pet areas wear faster. The single biggest factor in longevity is proper sub-base preparation, so never cut corners on installation.
- Can artificial grass be installed on concrete, paving or soil?
- Yes - artificial grass can be laid on soil, concrete or paving. On soil, the ground is levelled and compacted, then fitted with a weed barrier and a compacted stone sub-base. On concrete or paving, a proper drainage fall plus a shock-pad or foam underlay is recommended for comfort and water runoff. A well-prepared base is essential to prevent lifting, pooling or premature failure.
Artificial Flowers
- How do you clean artificial flowers?
- Dust artificial flowers weekly with a soft microfibre cloth, feather duster, or a hairdryer on a cool setting. For a deeper clean, wipe silk petals gently with a barely-damp cloth, or spray a 50/50 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water and let it drip dry, carrying the dust away. Always dust before any wet cleaning, and test an inconspicuous area first. Never soak them.
- Where can I buy artificial flowers near me?
- In Gauteng, Distinctive Spaces supplies premium artificial flowers, silk plants and trees from its Fourways showroom at 7B Sparrow Drive, Sandton (by appointment), with delivery across South Africa. Its ultra-realistic silk range spans orchids, roses and flowering stems that never wilt, need water or fade. Other SA suppliers exist, but quality varies, so look for realistic detailing.
- Can artificial flowers be used outside?
- Only UV-treated, outdoor-rated artificial flowers should be used outside - ordinary indoor silk blooms fade within 3–6 months in South Africa's harsh sun. Look for products explicitly labelled "UV resistant" or "all-weather." Even then, placing them under a patio, pergola or covered area and applying a UV-protectant spray every 6–12 months extends their colour considerably.
- How long do artificial flowers last?
- High-quality silk artificial flowers last 5–10 years or more indoors with occasional dusting, and premium real-touch arrangements can look intentional for 15–20 years. Outdoors the lifespan drops sharply - untreated silk fades in 3–6 months, so UV-treated materials are essential. Material quality is the single biggest factor: cheap plastic yellows and stiffens quickly, while premium stems age gracefully.
- What can you spray on artificial flowers to stop them fading?
- Apply a clear UV-resistant protectant spray made for artificial plants - products such as Krylon Ultra UV Floral Protectant guard against fading, dust and moisture. Clean the flowers first, then spray evenly in sweeping motions about 25–30cm away in a ventilated area, let dry fully, and reapply every 6–12 months for outdoor use. Always test a hidden area first, as finishes react differently on different materials.
Artificial Plants
- Do artificial plants look cheap or fake?
- Cheap artificial plants can look fake, but premium ones are remarkably convincing - the difference is in materials, moulding detail and styling. High-end silk and real-touch plants use botanically accurate leaves and natural colour variation. To make any faux plant look real, "fluff" and bend the branches, use a quality planter with soil or moss on top, and keep it dust-free. Distinctive Spaces' ultra-realistic range invites you to touch it to be sure.
- Do artificial plants fade in the sun?
- Ordinary artificial plants fade under prolonged direct sun, but UV-treated (UV-stabilised) plants are manufactured to resist fading and are made for outdoor use. In South Africa's intense sunlight, always choose UV-protected products for sunny or outdoor spots. Rotating plants monthly ensures any fading is uniform, and a UV-protectant spray adds extra defence. Distinctive Spaces' outdoor Instagreen range is UV-protected for all-weather use.
- Are artificial plants worth it compared to real plants?
- For most homes and businesses, yes - artificial plants need no watering, feeding, light or pruning, never drop leaves, don't attract bugs, and look perfect year-round, making them ideal for low-light corners, busy offices and frequent travellers. Real plants offer air-purifying and wellbeing benefits but demand ongoing care and can die. Quality faux plants are a one-off investment that pays for itself over years of effortless greenery. Silk plants are considered to be "green" due to no water, no fertiliser, no bugs. Furthermore, scientific tests prove that whether it is live or artificial, plants both have the biophilic effect giving that relaxing feeling of being in nature.
- Do artificial plants attract bugs?
- No - artificial plants do not attract bugs. They contain no sap, nectar, pollen, soil or moisture, so pests have no food source or breeding ground. This is a key advantage over real plants, which can harbour aphids, spider mites and fungus gnats. Dust can settle in the foliage, so occasional cleaning keeps them fresh, but they won't draw insects into your home.
- How do you clean artificial plants?
- Dust regularly with a feather duster, microfibre cloth, or a hairdryer/compressed air on a cool setting for hard-to-reach areas. For built-up grime, wipe the leaves with a cloth dampened in mild soapy water, then rinse with a clean damp cloth and air dry. Avoid soaking. Work from the top down, and clean every few weeks in high-traffic or dusty areas.
Delicious Monster
- Is the delicious monster an indoor or outdoor plant?
- The delicious monster (Monstera deliciosa) is grown mainly indoors in South Africa but thrives outdoors in warm, frost-free, semi-shaded spots - it's not frost hardy, so inland regions like Johannesburg and Pretoria should shelter it from cold winters. It prefers bright, indirect light and temperatures of 18–30°C. For a permanently lush look indoors or out, Distinctive Spaces offers a maintenance-free artificial monstera.
- How often should you water a delicious monster?
- Water a delicious monster roughly every 1–2 weeks - only when the top 2–3cm of soil feels dry. Use the soak-and-dry method: water thoroughly until it drains, then let the soil dry before watering again. Water more in bright light and warm months, and less in winter. Overwatering is the most common mistake and leads to root rot.
- Why are my delicious monster leaves turning yellow?
- Yellowing leaves are most commonly caused by overwatering, which suffocates the roots and causes rot - always check the topsoil has dried before watering again. Other causes include cold temperatures, insufficient light, or the natural shedding of an old lower leaf. Ensure good drainage and bright, indirect light. If you'd rather skip the guesswork entirely, an artificial monstera stays flawlessly green forever.
- Is the delicious monster poisonous to pets and children?
- Yes - Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) is toxic to dogs and cats, per the ASPCA, due to insoluble calcium oxalates. Clinical signs are oral irritation; intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips; excessive drooling; vomiting; and difficulty swallowing. It also irritates children if chewed. For homes with curious pets or toddlers, Distinctive Spaces' artificial monstera is completely non-toxic and pet- and child-safe.
- Why are my delicious monster leaves not splitting?
- Leaves fail to split (fenestrate) mainly because the plant is too young or isn't getting enough light - monsteras typically start splitting at two to three years old, and only once mature and well-lit. Move it to bright, indirect light, feed during the growing season, and be patient; new leaves should get larger and more fenestrated over time. An artificial monstera arrives with perfect, dramatic splits already.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
- How much light does a fiddle leaf fig need?
- A fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) needs bright, indirect light - ideally six or more hours daily near a large, unobstructed window. Too little light causes leaf drop and weak growth, while harsh direct midday sun can scorch the leaves. Rotate the pot regularly for even growth, and keep it in a stable spot, as this plant hates being moved. For a light-independent statement tree, consider an artificial fiddle leaf fig.
- Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves?
- Leaf drop is usually caused by inconsistent watering (over- or under-watering), sudden environmental change, low light, or cold draughts - fiddle leaf figs are notoriously sensitive to instability. Check that the top 5cm of soil dries between waterings, provide steady bright light, and avoid moving the plant. Recovery takes patience. Distinctive Spaces' artificial fiddle leaf fig never sheds a leaf.
- Why is my fiddle leaf fig turning brown?
- Brown leaves most often signal overwatering and root rot (brown spots spreading from the centre or base), while dry brown edges point to under-watering, low humidity or mineral build-up, and dark scorched patches indicate too much direct sun. Let the top 5cm of soil dry between waterings, ensure good drainage, and provide bright, indirect light. Trim badly damaged leaves to redirect energy.
- How often should I water a fiddle leaf fig?
- Water a fiddle leaf fig only when the top 5cm (about 2 inches) of soil is dry - typically about once a week, though this varies with light, warmth and season. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer so the roots never sit in water. Consistency is key: both overwatering and underwatering cause brown leaves and leaf drop.
- Is a fiddle leaf fig toxic to cats and pets?
- Yes - the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is toxic to dogs and cats, per the ASPCA. Small ingestions risk mild gastrointestinal irritation, most commonly vomiting and diarrhoea, and the milky sap can also cause skin irritation. It's mildly toxic rather than life-threatening, but best kept away from pets and children. Distinctive Spaces' artificial fiddle leaf fig delivers the same iconic look with zero toxicity.
Fake Plants
- Where can I buy fake plants?
- Distinctive Spaces is a leading South African supplier of premium fake (artificial) plants, silk trees, green walls and artificial grass, based in Fourways, Johannesburg, with a showroom by appointment and nationwide delivery. Our ranges span Luxury, Deluxe, Standard and Econo tiers to suit every budget. Other SA options include nurseries and homeware retailers, but quality varies widely, so inspect the detailing.
- Do fake plants look cheap?
- Only low-quality ones do. Premium fake plants use realistic materials, natural colour variation and detailed moulding that are hard to tell from living plants. The giveaways of cheap plants are uniform plastic colour, visible seams and stiff shapes. Styling matters too - a good planter, natural filler and a quick dusting elevate any faux plant. Distinctive Spaces' silk range is designed to be touch-test convincing.
- How do you make fake plants look real?
- Shape and "fluff" the branches and leaves so they sit naturally, then pot the plant in an attractive planter using soil, moss, bark or stones on top to hide the plastic base. Vary the heights, place it where a real plant would thrive, add natural light, and dust regularly - nothing says "fake" like a dusty, cobwebbed plant. Mixing in a few real plants also helps.
- Do fake plants attract bugs?
- No - fake plants don't attract bugs, because they contain no sap, pollen, nectar, soil or moisture that pests seek. Made from plastic, silk or polyester, they offer nothing of value to insects. Bugs may occasionally wander onto plants near open windows, and dust can accumulate, so occasional cleaning keeps them pristine - but they won't become a breeding ground the way real plants can.
- Are fake plants tacky?
- Not anymore. Modern high-quality artificial plants have shed their dated "plastic" reputation and are now a mainstream interior-design choice for homes, hotels, restaurants and offices. Tackiness comes from poor quality and poor styling, not from faux plants themselves. Chosen well - realistic materials, tasteful planters and the right scale - they read as elegant and intentional. Distinctive Spaces specialises in premium, design-led greenery.
Artificial Trees
- How do you make an artificial tree look real?
- Shape each branch individually and rotate the leaves for depth, then upgrade the plain nursery pot into a quality planter, concealing the base with moss, bark or river stones. Set it in natural light for realistic shadows, keep the scale right for the room, and dust the foliage regularly. Well-styled premium artificial trees are often indistinguishable from real ones.
- How long do artificial trees last?
- Indoors, quality artificial trees last many years - often a decade or more - with only occasional dusting. Outdoors, lifespan depends heavily on UV treatment: non-UV trees fade within months in direct sun, while UV-stabilised, outdoor-rated trees last far longer. Keep them clean and out of harsh direct sun where possible to maximise their life.
- Can artificial trees be used outdoors?
- Only UV-resistant, outdoor-rated artificial trees should be used outdoors - standard indoor trees fade and degrade quickly in the sun. For sunny South African patios, choose UV-treated products, secure them with a weighted base against wind, and, where possible, position them in partial shade. A UV-protectant spray reapplied periodically extends their colour. Distinctive Spaces offers UV-protected outdoor ranges.
- How do you clean artificial trees?
- Dust from the top down using a microfibre cloth on large leaves and cool air (a hairdryer or compressed air) for tight clusters near the trunk. For a film or grime, wipe gently with a damp cloth and mild soap, then reshape the branches. Avoid harsh chemicals, heavy pressure and heat, which can damage the finish. Clean every 2–3 weeks in most homes.
- How do you secure or pot an artificial tree in a planter?
- Place the tree's nursery pot inside a heavier decorative planter and weight the base with sand, gravel, rocks or cement for stability - especially outdoors or in wind. For a permanent hold, use expanding foam around the stem, then conceal the top with decorative moss, bark or stones. Make sure the trunk sits centred and level, and adjust the branches for a natural look.
Vertical Garden
- What is a vertical garden?
- A vertical garden (or living wall) is a wall-mounted arrangement of plants grown vertically, using either real plants in a felt, pocket or hydroponic system, or realistic artificial foliage panels. It transforms bare walls into lush green features, saves floor space, and suits both indoors and outdoors. Artificial vertical gardens deliver the effect instantly, with no irrigation or upkeep.
- How much does a vertical garden cost?
- In South Africa, artificial vertical gardens range from roughly R499–R1,800 per m² for DIY interlocking panels and premium Distinctive Spaces' Instagreen matting (excluding installation). Distinctive Spaces also offers a full silk green wall that is packed tightly with a full 3D planting effect from around R5,999 per m² for bespoke custom builds. Living vertical gardens cost substantially more (around R12,000 per m²) once irrigation, plants and ongoing maintenance are included.
- What plants are best for a vertical garden?
- For living vertical gardens, hardy, shallow-rooted plants work best - ferns, succulents, pothos, philodendron, ornamental grasses and herbs suit most systems, chosen to match the wall's light and climate. Outdoor walls need weather-tough species. Because living walls demand careful selection, irrigation and replacement, many South Africans choose artificial green walls, which offer ivy, fern, boxwood and bougainvillea looks with zero die-off.
- How do you build a vertical garden?
- For a living wall, fix a waterproof backing and frame to the wall, attach a felt-pocket or modular panel system, add a drip-irrigation line at the top with a collection gutter below, then insert plants by a design grid. For an artificial version, you simply mount UV-protected foliage panels or matting onto a frame or wall - no irrigation, waterproofing or ongoing care needed.
- Do vertical gardens need a lot of watering and maintenance?
- Living vertical gardens are maintenance-intensive: they need regular automated irrigation, feeding, pruning, pest control and periodic plant replacement, with running costs that add up over time. Artificial vertical gardens, by contrast, need only occasional dusting or a gentle rinse - no water, no feeding, no dying plants. This is exactly why faux green walls are so popular for busy homes and commercial spaces.
Green Walls
- What is the difference between a green wall and a living wall?
- "Green wall" is the broad term for any vertical surface covered in greenery - living plants, preserved botanicals or artificial foliage. A "living wall" specifically means a system of real, growing plants supported by irrigation, drainage and sometimes lighting. So all living walls are green walls, but green walls also include low-maintenance artificial and preserved options.
- How long do artificial green walls last?
- Premium artificial green walls last around 10 years or more indoors, staying visually consistent with only occasional cleaning. Outdoors, UV exposure shortens this - even UV-rated foliage typically begins fading after several years, so it must be UV-stabilised for sun exposure. Distinctive Spaces' Instagreen green walls are UV-protected and backed by a 5-year warranty.
- How much does a green wall cost?
- In South Africa, artificial green walls range from roughly R499–R1,800 per m² for DIY interlocking panels and premium Instagreen matting (excluding installation). Distinctive Spaces also offers a full silk green wall that is packed tightly with a full 3D planting effect from around R5,999 per m² for bespoke custom builds. Living green walls cost substantially more (around R12,000 per m²) once irrigation, plants and ongoing maintenance are included.
- Do artificial green walls need maintenance?
- Very little. Unlike living walls - which need watering, feeding, pruning and plant replacement - artificial green walls require only occasional dusting or a gentle hose-down to stay fresh. There's no irrigation, no pests and no die-off. This near-zero maintenance, combined with a consistent year-round appearance, is the main reason businesses and homeowners choose faux green walls. Distinctive Spaces' Instagreen is described as maintenance-free.
- Can green walls be installed outdoors?
- Yes - both living and artificial green walls can be installed outdoors, but each needs the right specification. Outdoor living walls must be engineered for climate, drainage and plant hardiness. Outdoor artificial green walls must use UV-stabilised, all-weather foliage to resist fading in South Africa's strong sun. Distinctive Spaces' Instagreen is UV-protected and suitable for both indoors and outdoors.
Artificial Hanging Plants
- Are artificial hanging plants suitable for outdoors?
- Yes - provided they're UV-resistant and outdoor-rated. Standard indoor hanging plants fade quickly in the sun, so choose products explicitly labelled "UV resistant" for exposed spots, or "indoor/outdoor" for covered patios. Secure baskets against wind. Outdoor-rated faux hanging plants bring lasting cascading greenery to porches, balconies and pergolas - with no watering and no dead leaves.
- Are artificial hanging plants UV-resistant and do they fade?
- Ordinary artificial hanging plants fade in direct sun, but UV-resistant (UV-stabilised) versions are treated to hold their colour outdoors for years. In South Africa's intense sunlight, always choose UV-rated products for sunny positions, and apply a UV-protectant spray every 6–12 months for extra protection. Placing them under a pergola or covered area further slows fading.
- How do you clean artificial hanging plants?
- Dust regularly with a soft cloth, feather duster or cool hairdryer. Outdoor-rated, all-weather hanging plants can be freshened with a gentle hose rinse; indoor-only ones should be wiped with a slightly damp cloth instead. Remove debris from the basket, check for loose stems, and let them dry fully before reapplying any UV spray.
- What are the best artificial hanging plants?
- The best artificial hanging plants are trailing varieties that cascade naturally - English ivy, pothos, ferns, string-of-pearls, philodendron and flowering vines like bougainvillea or geranium. For outdoors, choose UV-resistant versions. Boston ferns and trailing ivy suit shaded porches, while flowering baskets add colour to sunny (UV-rated) spots. Distinctive Spaces offers a dedicated wall and hanging plant range.
- Where do artificial hanging plants work best?
- Artificial hanging plants work best in spots that are awkward for real plants - high ceilings, stairwells, balconies, covered patios, bathrooms, offices and shopfronts - where watering and light are impractical. They add height, soften hard architecture and reduce echo in large spaces. Outdoors, use UV-rated baskets under pergolas or eaves. Distinctive Spaces notes hanging greenery is ideal for adding dimension in high-ceilinged spaces.