The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Failing Miserably)




The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Failing Miserably)


From Black Thumb to…Slightly Less Black Thumb?

Let’s be honest, folks. I am no botanist. My thumbs are practically coated in charcoal from years of unintentionally assassinating innocent houseplants. A cactus once withered under my care. A CACTUS. You know, those spiky things that thrive in the desert with minimal water? Yeah, I managed to kill one.

So, you can imagine my trepidation when the plant craze hit, and everyone I knew suddenly transformed into responsible plant parents with thriving indoor jungles. But something about those lush green photos on Instagram, the promise of cleaner air, and the challenge of keeping something other than myself alive (barely) was intriguing. So, I decided to dip my toe, or rather, my slightly blackened thumb, back into the world of plant parenthood.

The Great Succulent Experiment: A Cautionary Tale

My first victims, I mean, plant children, were a couple of adorable succulents. They seemed like a safe bet, right? Low maintenance, drought-tolerant, and practically impossible to kill. Famous last words, am I right?

Armed with a watering can and a healthy dose of skepticism, I embarked on my succulent parenting journey. I followed all the rules: well-draining soil, infrequent watering, plenty of sunshine. I even named them Stan and Stella, because every plant parent needs to have a good origin story for the inevitable plant funeral.

plant equivalent of plump and juicy is). I was practically a plant whisperer, a botanical prodigy. Then, tragedy struck. I overwatered. It wasn’t intentional, I swear! I just got caught up in the excitement of being a #PlantMom and… well, let’s just say Stan and Stella went to the great greenhouse in the sky.

Finding Success with the “Un-Killable” Snake Plant

Dejected but not defeated, I decided to try again. This time, I opted for a snake plant, known for its resilience and air-purifying qualities. I figured if anything could survive my questionable nurturing skills, it was this bad boy.

And you know what? I was right! My snake plant, christened Percy (because I have a thing for alliteration), not only survived but thrived under my care. He grew taller, his leaves a vibrant green, even with my inconsistent watering schedule and occasional neglect.