It all started with an impulse buy in the garden section of Walmart. I spotted a pothos in a hanging pot, a fern, and a croton—all on sale. These little green companions were meant to fill the void I felt from missing the joyful (or sometimes contentious) sounds of my kids under my roof during my divorce. At that time, my track record with plants was dismal; I had managed to kill every houseplant I’d ever owned.
Fast forward two years, and my daughter recently counted that I now proudly care for 34 houseplants. Yes, I might be a tad obsessed! I even give them names. One of my favorites, a White Anne, goes by “Drama Queen” because he dramatically droops at the slightest hint of dehydration. Just add a little water, and within minutes, he’s perked up as if nothing happened.
Then there’s my alocasia, affectionately named “Phoenix.” After discovering mealybugs, I panicked and sprayed her with household cleaner before tossing her outside. To my surprise, she didn’t stay dead! Weeks later, I noticed a new green shoot emerging, and now she’s back inside, thriving with her leafy friends.
It seems I’m not alone in my houseplant obsession; they’ve become a trendy home décor choice, eclipsing even shiplap. Online communities dedicated to plant care have flourished on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, where enthusiasts share their love for all things green.
Contrary to popular belief, recent studies indicate that houseplants don’t actually filter air or increase oxygen levels in your home. But to that, I say, who cares? They are aesthetically pleasing, and being surrounded by greenery has shown to elevate mood. I can certainly attest to this; finding a new shoot on one of my plants brings me genuine joy.
Tips for Thriving as a Plant Parent
If you’re thinking about starting your own plant collection but have a history of plant casualties, or if you’re unsure where to begin, I’ve got some tips to help you thrive as a plant parent:
- Join Plant Communities Online
The survival of my plants is thanks to my membership in a Facebook group for houseplant enthusiasts. This group has educated me about pests like mealybugs and provided invaluable advice on plant care. If you ever encounter issues, simply post a picture in your group, and you’ll get tons of helpful feedback from seasoned plant lovers. - For social media inspiration, check out TikTok accounts like @amongthejungle, @gay4plants, and @reagankastner, as well as Instagram pages like Welcome To The Jungle Home and Little Home Jungle.
- Start with Resilient Plants
Pothos and snake plants are excellent options for beginners due to their hardiness. My White Anne, while a bit dramatic, also gives me a clear sign when it needs water. When you go plant shopping, make a list of two or three types you want to consider, as the variety can be overwhelming. - Prioritize Drainage in Pots
Using pots with drainage holes can save your plants from drowning. “Overwatering” often refers to root rot, which occurs when excess water can’t escape and the roots become suffocated. You can find affordable pots with drainage at places like Walmart or thrift stores. Basic pots, like terracotta ones, can be effective; they even change color when wet, indicating when your plant needs watering.
Honestly, I’m still learning how to care for my plants, but having online resources has been a game-changer. If someone like me, who once struggled with plants, can cultivate a little indoor jungle, you can too!
If you’re interested in broader topics, feel free to check out one of our other posts here. And if you’re looking into home insemination options, consider visiting Make a Mom’s guide for expert advice!
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