We’ve all been there. Scrolling through Instagram, you stumble upon a picture of a verdant paradise masquerading as someone’s living room. Envy stirs within you. “I could do that,” you think, “I could be a plant person!”
A Plant Parent is Born (and Immediately Questions Life Choices)
This, my friends, is how I ended up with Herbert. Yes, I named him. Don’t judge. Herbert, a majestic (or so I thought) ZZ plant, promised to be the low-maintenance gateway drug to my own indoor jungle. He was, according to the internet, practically impossible to kill.
Patience, Young Padawan: Learning the Art of Slow Growth
Once Herbert recovered from my overzealous hydration attempts, I expected immediate results. I envisioned lush new growth, a testament to my newfound plant parenting skills. But Herbert, in his infinite wisdom, had other plans. He sat there. And sat. And sat some more.
Where were the new leaves? The explosive growth? Had I somehow messed up again? As it turns out, patience is not just a virtue, it’s a requirement when you’re dealing with plants. Herbert, in his own quiet way, taught me the importance of playing the long game. Real growth, whether it’s a plant or a personal goal, takes time and consistency.
Finding the Sunshine: Embracing Change and Seeking Light
Now, Herbert might be low-maintenance, but he’s not no-maintenance (contrary to what the internet promised). He still needs his sunshine. I, however, am a creature of habit. My favorite spot on the couch? Directly in front of Herbert’s preferred window.