Inside Soilboy, The Minimalist Plant Shop Of Your Dreams

By Samantha Ann Francis on 12 May 2022

Senior Editor

If you’ve been swept up in the indoor plant craze during the ongoing pandemic, know that you’re not alone. Dubbed the “plantdemic”, the gardening hobby has gained popularity across Singapore and beyond during COVID lockdowns, along with the likes of baking and crafting. From sprucing up their home with greenery to collecting rare plants, locals have found that tending to plants allowed them to enjoy a brief digital detox.

Photo from Soilboy

Now that the Lion City is opening up and easing restrictions, why not make a beeline to some of your favourite plant shops in person? Soilboy, the newest kid on the block, is a plant shop tucked away on Sin Ming Road. Designed by homegrown interior design studio SILO, the space was imagined as an oasis for plant lovers.

Featuring natural timber tones and handcrafted details, the space embodies a sense of peace and quiet. Rows of well-curated plants are displayed in handcrafted pots, along with info sheets describing each plant’s light and water requirements, toxicity, tips, as well as “difficulty level”—so that new plant parents don’t get overwhelmed by a fussy plant.

Photo from Soilboy

You’ll find well-loved selections like the hoya kerrii, which resembles a heart; the monstera deliciosa, also known as the swiss cheese plant thanks to its fenestrations; as well as the begonia maculata, which features attractive polka dot-like patterns.

Plant parents who fancy rare and exotic species can check out the variegated alocasia frydek, philodendron burle marx variegated, as well as the philodendron pink princess.

Photo from Soilboy

Worried about pairing your plant with the perfect planter? At Soilboy, it’s all been well thought out, with each plant already potted in a matching handcrafted planter in neutral hues.

The selection of planters come in four categories, including the in-house brand, Sprout terracotta pots, Front Range terracotta pots, and Geluk Studio handmade ceramic pots.

Photo from Soilboy

Seasoned plant parents will appreciate the collection of gardening essentials, such as four different potting mixes, a bamboo tray, as well as a spade.

They’ve got stylish watering cans in matte black and shiny silver, which are perfect for fitting into your plant corner’s aesthetics. Once in awhile, workshops are also held to guide new plant owners in caring for their purchases.

Photo from Soilboy

Soilboy has also collaborated with local illustrator Oak & Bindi, best known for her larger-than-life murals in the style of ‘90s cartoon visuals and punchy colours. You’ll find silkscreen prints of her “Certified Plant Lover” series, available in poster and postcard form, as well as the now-sold-out t-shirts.

If you prefer online shopping, their retail site also has a wide selection of plants for your perusal, along with helpful articles to help newbies find their first plant, and tips for not overwatering your plants.