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For anybody looking to add more green to their space, Renovation Jungle is a new plant store that opened up in Des Moines. The owner, Allie Delaney, recently opened the shop on November 7, 2020. The shop has been a success despite opening in the middle of a pandemic. The startup began as a hobby for Delaney. With a background in interior remodeling, one might think that houseplants would be a basic décor element for the designer. Although the aesthetic they bring to a space is intriguing, Delaney’s interest in plants goes far beyond appearances. 

She started collecting houseplants about 10 years ago, in her first college apartment. After killing plenty of plants, she decided to learn how to properly take care of them. This past summer, she started selling her own plant propagations to others, and a few weeks later was making plans to open the store. 

Renovation Jungle has a wide variety of plants, but mainly focuses on succulents and easy-care tropical plants. Delaney said she wants to make sure that everyone can find a plant that works for them. 

“My goal in opening the shop was to show people that they can do houseplants,” Delaney said. “Even if you’ve killed things your whole life, I want you to try plants again.” 

Renovation Jungle typically keeps plants in stock that the staff is familiar with so they can best help customers with plant care. The education aspect is something that keeps Delaney interested. It’s important to her that customers have success with their plants, as she regularly asks how their plants are doing long after their initial purchase. 

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“I think that the most important thing about the shop is the education that goes out the door with you,” Delaney said. “I want to be a resource for you and the life of your plant as long as you have it.” 

The name Renovation Jungle comes from Delaney’s background in interior remodeling. Renovation means to bring something back to its original form. For Delaney, Renovation Jungle means to take one’s home and renovate it into a jungle, one plant at a time.

The shop also offers interior remodeling services one of which is custom installation. The team will come into one’s home and build them a custom plant wall similar to the ones they have in the shop. Another unique service is virtual plant styling. The customer has a consultation with Delaney and she helps position their plants in the best way for their home’s aesthetic, as well as where their plants will best thrive in their home. 

Opening a business in the middle of a global pandemic can come with potential risk. For Delaney, it was just the right time. There has been a nationwide plant shortage as COVID-19 has been keeping people inside. She said it’s been the perfect time to take an interest in houseplants. This in turn helps Renovation Jungle become successful because so many people have been keen on houseplants. They are able to work with a wholesaler without any problems, and the store frequently changes inventory enabling them to receive new plants. 

“I truly believe we’re seeing a boost because of COVID,” Delaney said. 

In a society where an abundance of small businesses are closing their doors because of COVID, Renovation Jungle’s success is one silver lining. 

It’s also important to Delaney to have a local maker in the shop. Renovation locally made pottery, macrame and baskets available. They also cast their own concrete to make concrete planters, trays, and saucers. With a degree in product design, Delaney is excited to be working with local makers to design products that will make plant care easier. 

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Some guests come in with good knowledge about plants and some have never had much of a green thumb. Experience has never been a barrier for Renovation Jungle. They are dedicated to helping customers succeed with their plants. 

The unique services, open communication, and wide variety of plants make the shop a must.