Why Costco's Faux Plants Are Getting Mixed Reviews
It's not often that Costco's home products go viral on TikTok, but that has certainly been the case with the retailer's faux plant selection. For months now, social media has been raving about one decorative plant in particular: Costco's faux olive tree. However, while most of the reviews are positive, several people point out that the quality of this popular product is not worth the cost, saying that it appears cheap and poorly made.
The TikTok-famous tree comes in several sizes that range in price from $179.99 to a whopping $499.99 on Costco's website. It's clear that many people are not deterred by the price. After all, fake indoor trees have become all the rage; even John Legend swears by artificial plants to decorate his entryway. But, the critics of TikTok are not impressed with Costco's celebrated decor piece. It has also gotten a fair share of negative reviews online from disappointed customers. However, if you're tempted to buy it despite the naysayers, there are a few sneaky ways that you can make your tree appear more realistic, conceal some of the imperfections, and preserve its condition for as long as possible.
Some people are not loving Costco's faux plants and here's why
Many people who have splurged on the viral faux olive tree at Costco have nothing but positive things to say. It is easily in the running for the best-reviewed products in the Costco home section, not to mention all of the rave reviews on TikTok. However, a few people have come forward with their critiques about the trendy olive tree, and according to them, all that glitters is not gold.
In a TikTok video, the founder of interior design company Et Sal Interiors points out that the quality of the viral decor piece is not worth the price. "It's over $400 with tax and looks as cheap as a dollar store find in person," writes the TikToker in the caption. "Shiny fake olives, print-looking leaves, and little weight to the pot. Buyer beware. Not everything you see on social media is a great purchase." Another video by @tulaikachar makes similar comments about the shiny olives, cheaply-made leaves, weak-looking branches, and overall bulky and unnatural appearance.
Contrary to what the TikTok critics have to say, the vast majority of people who have reviewed this product are thrilled with it. The 6.5-foot olive tree has over 1,400 five-star reviews on Costco's website. However, there are also dozens of one-star reviews from customers who were unhappy with the quality. Many of these reviews also said that the planter arrived cracked upon delivery.
Tempted to buy Costco's olive tree? Here's how to make it look more real
If you think Costco's faux tree would look beautiful in your home, shiny olives and all, there are a few clever ways that you can make it look more real. TikToker @codyrobley covered the base of the olive tree with forest moss instead of leaving the fake soil exposed. This small detail gives the plant an element of texture and authenticity.
Instead of simply laying down moss, you can give your tree an even bigger upgrade by placing it in a larger container like a woven basket, as demonstrated by @jessicamay_home. Once you have found a new vessel for your tree, stuff the interior with a towel or old blanket, create a flat surface around the trunk with a piece of cardboard, and cover the surface with dried moss.
Another option is to embellish the tree with more branches. Purchase a set of decorative olive branches on Amazon for around $13, and use an adhesive to stick the branches directly onto the trunk to make the tree appear fuller and more vibrant. Place it away from direct sunlight, as fake plants have a tendency to fade from prolonged sun exposure. Plus, a little bit of shadow could also help to conceal those elements that make the tree look artificial.