From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story
Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always a green thumb enthusiast. In fact, I was more of a “oops, did I forget to water you again?” kind of person. My past attempts at nurturing plants usually ended in a moment of silence for their dearly departed leaves. But then something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was the desire for a little more life in my living room, but I decided to give this whole plant parenting thing another shot.
And you know what? I’m so glad I did! Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys (and hilarious mishaps) that I never saw coming.
The Thrill of a New Leaf: Why It’s a Mini Celebration
Remember that feeling when you were a kid and you finally lost a tooth? Finding the Tooth Fairy’s bounty under your pillow was pretty epic. Well, imagine that same level of excitement, but for a tiny green sprout emerging from your peace lily.
Talking to Your Plants: Surprisingly Therapeutic Benefits
Look, I’m not saying you have to start having full-blown conversations with your ferns (though, no judgment if you do). But there’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants while whispering words of encouragement.
Maybe you’re telling your monstera how proud you are of its new growth. Or perhaps you’re giving your cactus some tough love about its prickly attitude (we’ve all been there). Whatever it is, trust me, your plants are listening (or at least, it feels that way).
Plus, it’s a good excuse to practice your pep talks. “You got this, little buddy! You’re going to be the most magnificent monstera this side of the Mississippi!”
Plant Parenthood: Sharpening Your Observation Skills
Before becoming a plant parent, the extent of my observation skills involved noticing when the milk was past its expiration date. But with plants, you become attuned to the subtlest of changes.
- Is that leaf drooping a little more than usual?
- Are those brown spots new?
- Why does that spider plant look like it’s plotting world domination?