Confessions of a Former Plant Killer
Okay, let’s be real—I used to be a notorious plant killer. My thumbs were far from green; they were more like a death sentence for any leafy friend unfortunate enough to cross my path. Cacti? Deceased. Succulents? Succumbed. I’m pretty sure I even managed to murder a peace lily, which, if you know anything about peace lilies, is an impressive feat of horticultural homicide.
But then, something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was hitting my late twenties, or maybe it was just a desperate plea from my dwindling serotonin levels—whatever it was, I decided to give this whole plant thing another go. And guess what? It turns out, being a plant parent is kind of awesome.
Now, I’m not going to lie and say I magically transformed into some sort of plant whisperer overnight. I still have my fair share of mishaps (RIP, that one fern I overwatered). But the truth is, the more plants I brought into my home, the more I started to notice these little unexpected joys popping up:
- Instant Mood Booster: Seriously, is there anything more calming than being surrounded by a bunch of lush greenery? It’s like having a little piece of nature right in your living room. Plus, studies have shown that being around plants can actually reduce stress and improve your mood. Science-backed happiness? Sign me up!
- A Sense of Accomplishment: Remember that whole plant killer thing I mentioned? Yeah, well, keeping a plant alive is actually a pretty big confidence boost. Every new leaf, every successful repotting feels like a personal victory. And don’t even get me started on the bragging rights that come with keeping a notoriously finicky plant alive.
- A More Mindful Life: Caring for plants forces you to slow down, observe, and be present. You start noticing the subtle changes in your plants, learning their individual needs, and appreciating the beauty in the everyday. It’s a surprisingly grounding and mindful practice.
From Plant Killer to Proud Plant Parent: A Beginner’s Guide
The best part about all of this? You don’t have to be a green-thumbed guru to experience the joys of plant parenthood. Trust me, if a former plant assassin like me can do it, anyone can. Start small, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help (your local plant shop is your new best friend).