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It all started with an impulsive choice in the garden section of a local store. I spotted a pothos in a hanging pot, a fern, and a croton on sale. Just a few little green companions to help ease the ache of missing the laughter (and occasional squabbles) of my children during my divorce. At that point in my life, I was still adjusting to the endless stretches of time when my kids were with their dad. The idea of buying plants felt like a curious risk, especially since I had a track record of killing every plant I had ever owned until then.
Fast forward two years, and my daughter recently counted my thriving collection: I now proudly care for 34 houseplants. I might be a little obsessed. I even give them names! One, a White Anne, is dubbed “Drama Queen” because he “faints” at the slightest hint of dehydration. But give him a drink, and within minutes, he’s perked up as if nothing happened. So much flair!
Another houseplant, an alocasia, earned the name “Phoenix” after I mistakenly thought her infested with mealybugs. In a panic, I sprayed her with household cleaner (I know now there are better methods!) and tossed her outside, thinking she was a goner. But a few weeks later, I noticed a bright green shoot emerging from the soil by the fence. She’s now back inside with her fellow plants, happily soaking in the sunlight.
I’m certainly not alone in my newfound passion for houseplants. In fact, they might just be the trendiest home decor item these days—sorry, shiplap! Entire communities exist on social media dedicated to plant care, with countless TikTok and Instagram accounts celebrating the joy of houseplants.
Recent studies have debunked the myth that houseplants cleanse the air or boost oxygen levels in your home. But honestly, who cares? Plants are stunning and bring a touch of nature indoors. Plus, research suggests that being surrounded by greenery can lift your spirits. I can attest to this; nothing brings me more joy than discovering a new sprout on one of my plant friends.
If you’re considering diving into the world of houseplants but have faced trauma from past plant casualties, or if you’re unsure where to begin, don’t worry. I’ve got three simple tips for becoming a successful plant parent:
- Engage with Plant Groups and Follow Enthusiasts Online.
The success of my plant collection is thanks to the Houseplant Enthusiasts group on Facebook. They helped me identify mealybugs and guided me on how to manage them. This group is filled with seasoned plant lovers who can troubleshoot any issue you might encounter. If you’re worried about a plant, just post a photo with your concerns, and you’ll receive plenty of helpful advice.
For TikTok, check out @amongthejungle, @gay4plants, @reagankastner, and @hanginghouseplants. On Instagram, I enjoy following Welcome To The Jungle Home, Little Home Jungle, Sun People Plants, and Soiled Planties. - Start with Hardy Plants that Require Less Attention.
Pothos are stunning trailing plants known for their resilience. Snake plants are also quite forgiving. The White Anne, while a bit dramatic, has a clever way of alerting me when it’s thirsty.
When shopping for plants, it’s best to arrive with a list of two or three varieties you want to try. The sheer number of options can be overwhelming! - Use Pots with Drainage.
Choosing pots with drainage holes can save your plant babies from drowning. Overwatering often leads to root rot, which occurs when excess water accumulates and suffocates the roots.
You can find affordable pots at stores like Walmart or Target, but I enjoy sourcing secondhand pots from thrift shops or marketplaces. Basic pots can work just as well as trendy ones; I have many simple red clay pots that are practical and effective.
To be honest, I still feel like I’m winging it when it comes to my cherished houseplants. However, having access to online resources has been invaluable for keeping my green friends thriving. If I, a former plant killer, can cultivate a lush indoor garden, so can you!
For more insights on related topics, check out this helpful resource on pregnancy and home insemination or consider exploring this guide on at-home insemination kits for a deeper understanding. If you’re looking for more plant-related content, visit this other blog post for more tips and tricks.
Summary:
My journey into houseplant parenting began as a distraction during a tough time, and now I proudly nurture an extensive collection. With the help of online communities and a few simple guidelines, anyone can find joy in caring for plants, regardless of their past experiences.
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