Today we’d like to introduce you to Casey Buckingham.
Hi Casey, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Plants have always been a part of my life. As a kid, I helped my dad on the weekends and after school harvesting vegetables from our garden, but over time, my love shifted from the practical to the exotic—bringing the lush jungle indoors. What started as a hobby quickly became a full-blown obsession. There’s nothing like walking into a home surrounded by green luscious leaves after a stressful day—it felt like stepping into my own private jungle, a peaceful escape from the outside world.
The dream of opening a plant shop was always in the back of my mind, but it started to feel real the day I noticed a vacant older building on 12th Street for rent. I peeked inside and immediately saw the potential—a cozy, inviting space that could become a neighborhood plant shop! Thankfully, the landlords, longtime 12th Street residents, saw the same vision. And just like that, The Plant Society was born.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Honestly, it’s been a pretty smooth ride so far. The support and positivity from the community have been amazing—it’s been incredibly encouraging. The biggest challenge has definitely been figuring out the best way to keep hundreds of plants happy, healthy, and properly watered all at once. But it keeps me on my toes, and honestly, I don’t mind staying busy when it’s doing something I love.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I spent the last 16 years working as a nurse, so this is definitely a bit of a career pivot—but honestly, the best kind. Even though the shop is small, we try to pack in a big variety of houseplants, succulents, and cacti. We’ve got everything from easy, beginner-friendly plants to a little rare plant cabinet for collectors hunting for something special.
We also carry a mix of fun gifts, quirky planters, and planting supplies. One of our favorite things is the propagation game—pop a token in our vintage capsule machine and get a mystery cutting to take home and grow.
We really care about keeping our plants healthy and affordable, and we’re always happy to help set you up with tips to keep them thriving.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I definitely knew opening the shop would be a risk. Brick and Mortar retail shops are dwindling these days it seems and you can purchase plants pretty much anywhere—nurseries, big box stores, even the grocery store. However I’ve always seen risk as something positive. I’d rather take a chance and fail than never try and always wonder what if. Honestly, some of the best things in life come from taking that leap.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theplantsocietyatx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theplantsocietyatx
Image Credits
Drew Elaine Photography
