On East State, with a striped white and green awning and green trim to match, Fuller Plants is hard to miss. Inside, customers will find a variety of houseplants, plant-themed gifts, and a shop cat named Piper.
Founded by Jessica and Nicholas Fuller in 2020, Fuller Plants opened its storefront in 2022. They say their goal is to bring out the best in both customers and their houseplants, as they can be companions and provide life lessons.
In addition to offering a shopping selection on East State, Fuller Plants also offers repotting services, plant health consultations, plant rehab services, and in-home plant consultation services.
Input Fort Wayne sat down with Jessica Fuller to learn more about her growing business in the East State Village.
Input Fort Wayne: Tell us about Fuller Plants.
Jessica Fuller: We sell houseplants, houseplant accessories, and plant-themed gifts such as stickers, enamel pins, greeting cards, and puzzles. Houseplants are for everyone, so we focus on lots of plants that are more friendly to beginners. The health of the plants is top priority, along with helping educate our customers to be even better plant parents.
IFW: Where did your passion for this work come from?
JF: I grew up on a farm, so I have always been interested in growing things. Some of my first houseplants went downhill very fast, and I was determined to figure out what I did wrong. Through lots of trial and error, I grew my green thumb. Plants are an extremely rewarding hobby and everyone should feel welcome to try!
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Fuller Plants offers repotting services, plant health consultations, plant rehab services, and in-home plant consultation services.IFW: What was your inspiration for starting a plant business?
JF: I wanted to help people learn and offer healthy, happy plants. The internet has way too much information, which can be overwhelming for a new plant parent. I wanted to be a solid, trustworthy resource. Having a storefront gives me a home base where everyone is welcome to explore an interest in growing houseplants.
IFW: Fuller Plants is in the East State Village. What do you love about your location?
JF: We are close to downtown, close to Coliseum, and State Boulevard connects to so many different neighborhoods, while still feeling friendly and family-oriented. Our fellow ‘05 businesses rock – the area has grown just in the three years we have been here. The library next door is a great landmark, and many of the buildings have interesting histories.
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A mural above the entryway depicts shop cat Piper.
IFW: What would customers be surprised to learn about your business?
JF: Our building is over 100 years old, and formerly was the home of Abby Brown’s Candy for nearly forty years.
IFW: Do you have any recommendations for first-time plant owners?
JF: Keep it simple! Don’t blame yourself for plants not making it – but do try to learn something from it. Consider researching plants you’re interested in before purchasing them to help prepare yourself for their care needs. Find your local plant community, they’re probably pretty cool!
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Fuller Plants sells a variety of houseplants and plant-themed gifts.IFW: What are your favorite items sold in-store?
JF: Our shop cat stickers are popular, and everyone loves the marimo moss balls! Stickers are also fun for all ages.
IFW: What makes owning a small business rewarding for you?
JF: Being my own boss and being able to prioritize the things that are important to me. Making connections through a shared interest. Hopefully being a good example for my community. Plus, hearing people’s plant stories!
IFW: Do you have any advice for other small businesses in Fort Wayne?
JF: Follow your heart! Pay attention to the market you’re in, but not at the cost of doing what YOU want with your business. If you don’t love it, you will burn out. Be kind, be honest, be patient. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it!
You can follow Fuller Plants on
Instagram or
Facebook, or
visit their website to learn more.
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A painting gifted to Jessica and Nicholas of Fuller Plants' exterior hangs inside.
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