Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: easy care plants

  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Thumb Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Thumb Club)



    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Journey Begins

    Let’s be honest, folks. For years, my thumbs were about as green as a lump of coal. I’m talking “watering-with-orange-juice” level cluelessness. My track record with plants was less “thriving oasis” and more “desolate wasteland.”

    plant casualty?”

    But here’s the thing: I actually kept Steve alive. Not just alive, but thriving. He even sprouted a new little succulent bud! That’s when I realized the error of my ways. I wasn’t cursed with a black thumb; I just hadn’t discovered the simple joys (and hilarious struggles) of being a plant parent.

    Why You Should Embrace Plant Parenthood: Top 3 Reasons

    1. Plants: The Chillest Roommates You’ll Ever Have (Mostly)

    Forget noisy neighbors and passive-aggressive roommates. Plants are the epitome of low-maintenance living. They won’t steal your food, blast loud music at 3 AM, or judge your questionable life choices. Sure, they might need a little water and sunshine now and then, but trust me, their demands are far less demanding than your average house cat (sorry, Mittens). Plus, they’ll happily listen to all your problems without interrupting with unsolicited advice. Bonus: no awkward small talk required!

    Now, I’m not saying there won’t be the occasional dramatic episode. Like that time my peace lily, Priscilla, decided to stage a dramatic fainting spell because I forgot to water her for a week. (Don’t worry, she made a full recovery after a good soak and a pep talk.) But hey, we all have our moments, right?

    2. Level Up Your Home Decor with Plants

    Let’s face it, sometimes our living spaces need a little…oomph. And no, I’m not talking about another generic “Live, Laugh, Love” sign. Plants are like nature’s own interior design hack, instantly transforming any dull corner into a vibrant oasis.

  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)




    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs used to be about as green as a charcoal briquette. I once managed to kill a cactus, a feat I didn’t even know was possible. But something changed last year. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a quarter-life crisis, or maybe it was just finally realizing that my apartment looked suspiciously like a serial killer’s lair. Whatever it was, I decided to try my hand at this whole “plant parent” thing again.

    And you know what? I’m obsessed. Like, send-plant-pictures-to-my-grandma-every-Sunday obsessed. Who knew that these leafy little creatures could bring so much joy? So, if you’re on the fence about joining the club, let me share a few unexpected joys of being a plant parent that might just convince you.

    Plant Parenthood: Therapy, But Cheaper (and with Oxygen)

    Listen, I’m not saying you should swap your therapist for a fiddle leaf fig (although, let’s be real, the fig never judges your life choices). But there’s something incredibly therapeutic about caring for plants. The simple act of watering, repotting, and even just looking at your plants can melt away stress like nobody’s business.

    Plus, studies have shown that being around plants can reduce anxiety, boost your mood, and even improve focus. So basically, plants are like little green antidepressants that also happen to look amazing in your living room. Win-win.

    Becoming a Master of Your Own Tiny Ecosystem

    Remember that feeling of accomplishment when you finally beat Super Mario Bros. as a kid? That’s the feeling you get every time you keep a plant alive for longer than a month. It’s like you’ve unlocked a secret level of adulting, and trust me, the feeling is intoxicating.

    Suddenly, you’re not just someone who microwaves ramen; you’re a botanist, a scientist, a master of your own tiny ecosystem! You learn about sunlight, humidity, and the magical world of fertilizer. You start speaking in Latin names like “Monstera deliciosa” and “Calathea orbifolia” (okay, maybe not all the time, but still).

  • Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)

    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)


    From Brown Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always a plant whisperer. In fact, my thumbs were more “plant undertaker” than anything remotely green. I’m talking cacti withering under my care, succulents succumbing to my touch – it was a massacre of the leafy kind.

    plant (that thing is a BEAST). Whatever it was, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot. And let me tell you, it’s been a wild, hilarious, and surprisingly rewarding ride.

    The Unexpected Perks of Living with Plants

    Here’s the thing about plants, they’re like the quiet, low-maintenance roommates you always wished you had. They don’t borrow your clothes, they don’t eat your leftovers, and they definitely don’t hog the bathroom. Plus, they come with a whole bunch of unexpected benefits:

    • Instant Zen Masters: Forget meditation apps, just staring at my lush peace lily for five minutes instantly lowers my stress levels. It’s like visual Prozac, minus the side effects (unless you count an overwhelming urge to buy more plants).
    • Natural Air Purifiers: Turns out, plants are like little green oxygen factories, working tirelessly to filter out toxins and improve air quality. Who needs fancy air purifiers when you have a snake plant? (Just don’t tell my landlord I said that.)
    • They Make You Feel Like a Domestic God/Goddess: Let’s be real, there’s a certain sense of accomplishment that comes with keeping something alive that isn’t your phone battery. Plus, having thriving greenery instantly elevates your home décor game. It’s like having a live-in interior designer, but cheaper and less judgmental.

    Adventures (and Misadventures) in Plant Parenthood

    Now, don’t get me wrong, being a plant parent isn’t always sunshine and blooming roses (although I do have a rose bush that’s currently kicking butt). There are moments of panic (“Why are those leaves turning yellow?!”), moments of despair (“I overwatered it AGAIN?!”), and moments of sheer bewilderment (“Did that vine just grow three inches overnight?!”).

    But that’s part of the fun! It’s like a crash course in botany, except the stakes are low (unless you’re emotionally attached to that rare orchid you just splurged on). You learn through trial and error, celebrate the small victories (new leaf, who dis?), and develop a newfound appreciation for the miracle of nature (seriously, how do they DO that?!).

  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)



    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer

    Let’s be honest, I haven’t always had the greenest thumb. In fact, my history with plants was more of a graveyard than a garden. I once managed to kill a cactus. A cactus, people! You practically have to try to achieve that level of plant neglect.

    But something changed last year. Maybe it was the pandemic-induced desire for some living, breathing company. Maybe it was the sheer aesthetic appeal of a well-placed fiddle leaf fig. Whatever it was, I found myself drawn to the world of indoor plants. And you know what? I haven’t looked back since.

    Plants: More Than Just Pretty Green Things

    What I didn’t expect was the sheer joy that came with plant parenthood. Sure, they look beautiful, adding a touch of life and vibrancy to my home. But the benefits go far beyond aesthetics:

    • Stress Relievers: There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to plants. Watering, pruning, even just misting their leaves—it’s all strangely calming. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll.
    • Air Purifiers Extraordinaire: Forget those fancy air purifiers! Plants are nature’s own little oxygen factories, cleaning the air and making your home feel fresher and more inviting.
    • Conversation Starters: Forget boring small talk. Plants are the ultimate icebreakers. Everyone from your chatty aunt to the shy delivery person suddenly has something to comment on (and maybe even ask for care tips!).

    The Unexpected Joy of Plant Parenthood: Bragging Rights Included

    And then there’s the sheer pride. Remember that cactus I mentioned earlier? Well, now I can confidently nurture a peace lily through its entire flowering cycle. And let me tell you, when those elegant white blooms emerge, it’s a victory dance moment.

    Suddenly, you’re that person posting #plantparenthood updates on Instagram. You’re fielding questions from friends and family about the best way to propagate a pothos. You’re even considering joining your local plant swap group (yes, they exist, and they’re awesome!).

  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Thumb Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Thumb Club)




    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Thumb Club)


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Mama

    Let’s be honest, I used to be the grim reaper of the plant world. I’m talking wilting basil, droopy ferns, and cacti that looked like they’d rather be on Mars. If it was green and needed watering, it stood no chance in my apartment. But then something magical happened. Or maybe I just discovered self-watering pots. Whatever it was, I’m now a proud plant mama to a whole jungle of leafy, blooming, thriving plant babies.

    Plants: The Best Roommates You’ll Ever Have

    Remember those college roommates who stole your clothes and left dirty dishes everywhere? Plants are the opposite. They’re like those quiet, introverted friends who are just happy to be included. They don’t hog the bathroom, they never borrow your clothes without asking (looking at you, ferns!), and they’ll happily listen to you vent about your day without interrupting with unsolicited advice.

    Okay, except for my fern, Ferdinand. He’s a bit of a diva. Needs constant misting, throws a fit if he doesn’t get enough indirect sunlight. But hey, even plant parents need a little drama in their lives, right?

    Why Talk Therapy When You Can Talk to Your Plants?

    I’m convinced plants are the best therapists. They never judge your questionable life choices or your questionable taste in reality TV. Need to vent about your boss? Tell it to the succulents. Feeling stressed about that big presentation? Confide in your cacti. They’re always there to lend a (figurative) ear and offer silent, leafy support.

    Plus, studies show that being around plants can reduce stress and boost your mood. So, it’s basically self-care, right? Just don’t expect them to offer solutions. They’re great listeners, but terrible advice-givers.

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant






    From Black Thumb to… Less Black Thumb?

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my green thumb. In fact, I’m pretty sure my houseplants have a group chat where they place bets on who’ll kick the bucket first. But then, something miraculous happened. I managed to keep a houseplant alive for longer than a month. Not just alive, but thriving. And in the process, this leafy little guru taught me some unexpected life lessons.

    Alive)

    My previous plant-parenting style could be described as “enthusiastic but misguided.” I treated watering like a competitive sport (more is always better, right?) and panicked at the first sign of a drooping leaf. This time, I decided to channel my inner sloth. I learned to pay attention to the subtle cues my plant was giving me – the slight droop before a drought, the perky leaves after a good watering.

    Turns out, just like humans, plants have their own rhythm. By slowing down and observing, I was able to understand its needs and adjust my approach accordingly. Who knew that patience, a quality I struggle with in every other aspect of life, would be the key to keeping a plant alive?

    Lesson #2: Growth Isn’t Always Obvious (But It’s Always Happening)

    For weeks, I swore my plant wasn’t growing. I even considered buying a measuring tape to track its progress (or lack thereof). But then one day, I noticed something: the pot seemed smaller. And upon closer inspection, I realized my little buddy had sprouted new leaves, reaching towards the sunlight with quiet determination.

    It was a powerful reminder that growth isn’t always loud and obvious. Sometimes, it happens slowly, subtly, in the quiet moments when we’re not looking. Just like my plant, we, too, are constantly growing and evolving, even when we don’t realize it.

  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)



    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    My Brown Thumb Redemption Story

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs used to be the color of dirt, but not because I was a gardening guru. Oh no, I was the grim reaper of greenery, turning vibrant houseplants into wilted wallflowers. Cacti, succulents, you name it, I managed to find their kryptonite.

    Then, something magical happened. My well-meaning friend, probably tired of sending me condolence flowers for my deceased ferns, gifted me a resilient snake plant. And guess what? It survived! Not only did it survive, it thrived. That’s when I realized, maybe, just maybe, I could do this whole plant parent thing after all.

    plants could be so therapeutic?

    There’s something incredibly grounding about tending to your little green buddies. The gentle act of watering, the meticulous pruning, even just observing their growth—it’s like meditation with a side of chlorophyll. Plus, it’s way cheaper than therapy (and you can’t accidentally overshare your deepest secrets with a peace lily).

    Here’s a bonus: studies have shown that having plants around can actually boost your mood, reduce stress, and even improve air quality. So, basically, you’re not just a plant parent, you’re a health guru in the making!

    The Quirks of Plant Parenthood (Yes, You’ll Talk to Your Plants)

    Let’s address the elephant (ear plant) in the room—yes, I talk to my plants. And before you judge, let me tell you, they seem to like it. Okay, maybe they don’t understand my detailed recaps of the latest Netflix series, but hey, a plant parent can dream, right?

    But in all seriousness, becoming a plant parent comes with its own set of quirks, and honestly, that’s part of the fun!

    • You’ll develop a sixth sense for when your plants are thirsty (and no, it’s not just them dramatically drooping over the edge of the pot).
    • You’ll find yourself striking up conversations with strangers at the garden center, bonding over the best fertilizer and pest control strategies.
    • You’ll celebrate every new leaf like it’s a personal victory (because let’s be real, it kind of is).
  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)




    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Join the Club)


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

    Let’s be honest, before I became a plant parent, I thought succulents were made of plastic. I mean, they barely need water, right? My track record with houseplants was abysmal, a graveyard of drooping ferns and crispy, brown-edged peace lilies. I was the epitome of a black thumb, convinced I was genetically predisposed to kill anything green and leafy.

    Then, during one particularly uneventful trip to the grocery store (remember those?), I spotted a sad-looking little cactus tucked away on a bottom shelf. It was practically giving me puppy dog eyes, begging me to take it home. Against my better judgment, and with a heavy dose of skepticism, I did.

    And that, my friends, is how I, the notorious plant assassin, became a card-carrying member of the plant parenthood club. That little cactus, which I affectionately named Spike, thrived under my care (or benign neglect, depending on how you look at it).

    The Unexpected Perks of Plant Parenthood

    Turns out, there’s a reason why so many people are obsessed with their houseplants. It’s not just about aesthetics (although a well-placed monstera can really tie a room together). Here are a few unexpected joys I discovered on my journey as a plant parent:

    1. Plants Are the Chillest Roommates Ever

    • They don’t care if you forget to take out the trash.
    • They’re perfectly content with your taste in music (or lack thereof).
    • They won’t judge you for wearing the same sweatpants three days in a row.

    Seriously, plants provide the ultimate judgment-free companionship. They’re always there to greet you with a gentle sway and a vibrant splash of color, no matter what kind of day you’ve had.

  • The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and No, I Don’t Mean Children)

    The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and No, I Don’t Mean Children)

    From Black Thumb to Budding Enthusiast

    Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always a “plant person.” In fact, I was the one who could kill a cactus with kindness (or, more accurately, neglect). My past attempts at nurturing greenery were marked by drooping leaves, suspicious smells, and an overwhelming sense of defeat.

    plant parenthood.

    The Language of Leaves: Discovering the Joy of Plant Communication

    Turns out, plants are surprisingly communicative… if you know what to look for. It began with a slight droop, a subtle plea for hydration. Then, a yellowing leaf whispered tales of overwatering. I learned to decipher their silent language, becoming fluent in the dialects of sunlight, humidity, and fertilizer. And let me tell you, nothing beats the feeling of waking up to a new leaf unfurling, a tiny green victory fist-bumping the air. It’s like your plant is giving you a standing ovation for keeping it alive!

    Plant Parent to Plant Grandparent: The Joys of Propagation

    One plant quickly multiplied into a veritable indoor jungle. My apartment became a haven for ferns, succulents, and even a dramatic peace lily named Priscilla (she loves attention, can you tell?). But the real joy came when I discovered the magic of propagation. Taking a cutting from one plant and nurturing it into a whole new life felt like botanical alchemy. I started gifting these plant babies to friends and family, proudly proclaiming myself “Plant Grandma” to a growing number of leafy offspring.

    Ready to Grow? Embrace Your Inner Plant Parent

    The journey of a plant parent is full of ups and downs, much like any other kind of parenting (except maybe you don’t have to worry about your plants throwing tantrums in the grocery store… usually). It’s about learning to listen, observe, and appreciate the small victories. It’s about finding joy in the simple act of nurturing another living thing. And who knows, maybe you’ll even discover a hidden talent for keeping even the most temperamental orchids alive.

  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Cult)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Green Cult)




    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (And How You Can Go Green Too!)


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

    Let’s be honest, folks. Before I became a “plant parent” (still cringing a little at the term, but it’s accurate), I was basically a plant grim reaper. Seriously, even cacti withered under my care. It was tragic. My apartment looked like the waiting room for a funeral home, except way less lively.

    But then something magical happened. Or maybe I just finally got tired of killing innocent succulents. Whatever the reason, I decided to give this whole plant thing another shot. And you know what? It changed my life. Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but it definitely changed my apartment (RIP funeral home vibes!).

    Plants Alive (Yes, You Can Too!)

    Listen, there’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing another living thing. It’s like having a pet, but with way less responsibility (and poop). Seeing a new leaf unfurl or a tiny bud blossom is surprisingly exhilarating. It’s proof that you, yes YOU, are capable of keeping something alive! And for those of us who regularly forget to water ourselves, that’s a major confidence boost.

    Plus, let’s talk aesthetics. Plants are like living, breathing home décor. They instantly brighten up a room and add a touch of zen tranquility. Suddenly, your apartment transforms from “college dorm” to “sophisticated adult who has their life together (mostly).”

    More Than Just Pretty Green Roommates: The Benefits of Indoor Plants

    But the benefits go beyond just aesthetics and bragging rights. Plants are little air-purifying ninjas, working tirelessly to remove toxins and boost your mood. I swear, ever since I became a plant parent, I feel calmer, more focused, and my apartment smells amazing.

    And the best part? Plants are the most low-maintenance companions you’ll ever have. They won’t judge your messy bun or Netflix binging habits. They won’t steal your food or hog the blankets. They just want some sunlight, water, and the occasional pep talk (don’t judge, it works!).