Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: easy care plants

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

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)



    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a certified plant killer. I’m talking Sahara Desert levels of dryness in my apartment. If a plant even dared to wilt in my presence, I considered it a personal attack. My thumbs were decidedly not green. Then, something magical happened. My well-meaning friend, bless her soul, gifted me a resilient little snake plant for my birthday.

    plant thrived! It was like a tiny green beacon of hope in my otherwise plant-deprived life. And just like that, my black thumb started showing signs of life (pun intended!).

    The Unexpected Benefits of Plant Parenthood

    Fast forward to today, and my apartment is practically a jungle. I’ve discovered that being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected perks:

    Stress Relief (No Xanax Required!)

    Remember those adult coloring books that were all the rage? Yeah, plant parenting is like that, but way cooler. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about digging your hands in soil, pruning leaves, and just generally tending to your green babies. It’s like meditation, but with more oxygen and fewer awkward chanting sessions.

  • 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, before I became a plant parent, my thumbs were anything but green. In fact, I’m pretty sure they were dipped in some kind of plant-repelling potion. I’d walk into a room, and perfectly healthy ferns would spontaneously combust (okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea). But then, something magical happened. I got a succulent. A tiny, low-maintenance, almost impossible-to-kill succulent. And guess what? It survived! Not only did it survive, but it thrived. That, my friends, was the beginning of my unexpected journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood.

    Plant Parenthood

    Fast forward a couple of years, and my apartment now resembles a miniature jungle. I’ve got peace lilies, snake plants, a ZZ plant that could survive a nuclear apocalypse, and even a finicky (but beautiful!) orchid that I somehow manage to keep alive. But here’s the thing: being a plant parent is about so much more than just keeping something green alive. It’s about the unexpected joys that come with it.

    For starters, did you know that plants are amazing stress relievers? It’s true! Studies have shown that being around plants can actually lower your blood pressure and heart rate. And let’s be real, who couldn’t use a little bit of that in their lives? There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants, watching them grow, and knowing that you’re giving them the care they need to flourish. It’s like a little slice of zen in the middle of your chaotic day.

    Plants: More Than Just Home Decor

    But the joys of plant parenthood don’t stop there. Plants are also like the ultimate home decor accessory. They can brighten up any room, add a touch of nature to your space, and even purify the air. Plus, there’s a plant out there for every personality and aesthetic. Whether you prefer minimalist succulents, dramatic monsteras, or delicate air plants, you’re bound to find a green companion that speaks to your soul.

    And the best part? Plants are the gift that keeps on giving. Unlike that sweater you got for your birthday last year that’s still sitting in your closet with the tags on, plants bring joy year-round. They’re a constant reminder of nature’s beauty, a source of peace and tranquility, and let’s face it, they make you feel like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t, shhh!).

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

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)




    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a plant killer. A serial one, you might say. My apartment housed a graveyard of wilted ferns, crunchy succulents, and one very sad-looking peace lily named Phil (RIP, buddy).

    But then, something magical happened. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a sudden surge of thirty-something responsibility, or maybe, just maybe, I finally learned how to not murder leafy greens.

    Now, my apartment looks less like a plant cemetery and more like a mini jungle (a very organized, well-lit jungle). And you know what? It’s amazing!

    Why You Should Become a Plant Parent: Top 3 Benefits

    1. Plants Are Natural Mood Boosters

    Forget expensive therapy sessions! All you need is a watering can and a chatty spider plant named Steve (don’t judge, my plants need names). Seriously though, taking care of plants is surprisingly therapeutic.

    There’s something so calming about digging your hands in the soil, giving your leafy friends a gentle misting, and watching them thrive under your care. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll.

    A close-up shot of a variety of healthy plant cuttings.
  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant




    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant


    My Journey From Plant Killer to…Slightly Less of a Plant Killer

    Okay, confession time: I am not what one might call a “plant person.” In fact, I have a history with houseplants that can only be described as…tragic. Let’s just say I’ve witnessed more plant funerals than a florist at a mafia wedding.

    plant, I accepted with the cautious optimism of a zookeeper approaching a tiger cub. “Don’t worry,” my friend chirped, “ZZ plants are basically immortal. You practically have to try to kill them.”

    Challenge accepted, I thought.

    Lesson 1: Even the Strongest Need a Little Sunshine

    Turns out, my friend was right. This ZZ plant was a champ. I overwatered it, underwatered it, and even managed to spill coffee on it once (don’t ask). Through it all, the ZZ plant stood strong, a verdant testament to resilience.

    Then, one day, I noticed something was off. The once-vibrant leaves were drooping, their usual deep green fading to a sickly yellow. Had I finally met my match in the plant world? Was this the end of our tumultuous, mostly one-sided relationship?

    A quick Google search revealed the shocking truth: even the mighty ZZ plant needs a little sunshine. I had relegated my plant to a dark corner, assuming its hardiness meant it could survive on vibes alone. I quickly moved it to a sunnier spot, feeling a pang of guilt akin to forgetting to feed a pet goldfish (RIP, Bubbles).

    To my immense relief, the ZZ plant bounced back. It was a powerful reminder that even the strongest among us need nourishment and support to thrive. Yes, even houseplants.

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

    Life got busy, as it tends to do, and I settled into a routine with my ZZ plant. I watered it on schedule, gave it the occasional pep talk (don’t judge), and generally avoided spilling anything else on it.

    One day, while dusting (yes, I clean occasionally), I realized something astonishing. The plant…was bigger. Not just a little bigger, but significantly larger. New growth, a vibrant emerald green, sprouted from the base, reaching towards the sun like a tiny, leafy beacon of hope.

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant



    From Black Thumb to…Slightly Less Black

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my green thumb. In fact, my plant-care track record more closely resembles a scorched-earth policy. Succulents? More like succulents-didn’t. Peace lilies? They were anything BUT peaceful in my presence.

    plant for my birthday, I accepted with a healthy dose of skepticism (and maybe a silent prayer for the poor plant).

    Lesson #1: Patience is a Virtue (and Essential for Plant Parents)

    Now, this ZZ plant was a trooper. I managed to overwater it, underwater it, and even accidentally left it in a dark corner for a week (oops!). But through it all, it persisted. Sure, it might not have looked like the vibrant, Instagram-worthy houseplants I coveted online, but it held on. Slowly, I started to realize that just like with people, you can’t rush growth. Sometimes, you just need to be patient, provide the basic necessities, and trust the process.

    This newfound patience even started to bleed into other areas of my life. Instead of getting frustrated with traffic, I’d take a deep breath. Deadlines at work felt less daunting when I broke them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Who knew a plant could teach me the art of Zen?

    Lesson #2: Even Small Victories Deserve a Happy Dance

    One day, while watering my resilient ZZ plant (on the correct schedule, might I add!), I noticed something magical: a new shoot! It was tiny, maybe an inch tall, but it was there, a vibrant green beacon of hope. I’m not ashamed to admit I did a little happy dance right there in my living room.

  • 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)


    Plant Killer

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs used to be about as green as a flamingo. I was the grim reaper of succulents, the bane of basil’s existence. If a plant even dared to wilt dramatically in my presence, I’d apologize profusely before escorting it to the compost bin. “It’s not you, it’s me,” I’d whisper, riddled with plant-parent guilt.

    But something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a desperate attempt to bring some life into my apartment (besides my goldfish, Bubbles, who, let’s be honest, isn’t the most stimulating conversationalist). Whatever it was, I decided to give this whole plant thing another go. And let me tell you, I’ve never looked back.

    Plant Parent‘s Victory

    Friends, there is nothing quite like the triumphant feeling of witnessing new growth on a plant you’re responsible for keeping alive. It’s like winning a tiny, green lottery. That first little sprout, that unfurling leaf – it’s a testament to your nurturing abilities (or at least your ability to follow instructions on a care label).

    Suddenly, you understand why people talk to their plants. You find yourself cooing at your ferns, whispering encouragements to your cacti, and maybe even shedding a tear or two when your peace lily blooms (okay, maybe that last one is just me).

    Zen and the Art of Plant Care: Finding Peace in Nature

    Life can be hectic. Between work, social commitments, and the never-ending quest for the perfect avocado toast, finding a moment of peace can feel impossible. Enter: plant care.

    There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your leafy companions. Misting their leaves, checking for pests, repotting when they’ve outgrown their pots – it’s a meditative practice that forces you to slow down, be present, and appreciate the simple things in life.

  • 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, folks. Before I became a “plant parent,” the only thing I successfully grew was a healthy layer of dust on my furniture. My thumbs were decidedly not green. In fact, they were more like a charcoal sketch of despair whenever I dared to nurture anything leafy.

    plant named Stan (creativity isn’t my strong suit). To my utter shock, Stan thrived. He didn’t judge my inconsistent watering schedule or my complete lack of horticultural knowledge. He just…grew. And with each new leaf, a sense of pride blossomed within me.

    Thus began my journey into the wonderful, sometimes wacky, world of plant parenthood.

    Why Talking to Your Plants Might Not Be So Crazy

    Now, before you judge, hear me out. One of the unexpected joys of having plants is that they become your audience. Need to vent about a frustrating day? Your ZZ plant is all ears (metaphorically, of course). Want to celebrate a small victory? Your peace lily will never steal your thunder.

    I’ll admit, I’ve had full-blown conversations with my philodendron, Phil. I tell him about my day, ask his opinion on my outfit (he’s non-judgmental, thankfully), and sometimes even confide in him about my dreams of becoming a crazy plant lady with a house full of greenery.

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

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




    Confessions of a Recovering 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, my history with plants was less “green thumb” and more “plant grim reaper.” I’m talking wilting flowers, drooping leaves, and a graveyard of succulents that could make you weep. So, when a friend gifted me a peace lily for my birthday, I accepted it with the enthusiasm of someone handed a ticking time bomb. “Don’t worry,” I told my friend, “I’ll keep it alive… somehow.” Little did I know, this peace lily was about to spark an unexpected joy in my life (and teach me a thing or two about responsibility).

    Plant Parenthood

    Turns out, there’s a reason why people go crazy for houseplants. Here are just a few of the unexpected joys I discovered on my journey from plant killer to proud plant parent:

    Stress Relief: Greenery That Calms

    Remember that peace lily I mentioned? Well, it turns out watching its leaves unfurl and reach for the sunlight is surprisingly therapeutic. Who knew that nurturing something other than my caffeine addiction could be so calming? Now, instead of yelling at the traffic outside, I find myself whispering encouragements to my leafy companions. (“You got this, Philodendron! Grow, baby, grow!”)

    Home Decor & Air Purification: Plants Do It All!

    Let’s face it, my apartment decor can best be described as “chaotic millennial chic.” But adding a few strategically placed plants instantly elevated my space from “hot mess” to “boho paradise.” Plus, these green goddesses don’t just look good, they actually purify the air! Talk about a win-win situation.

  • 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 Serial Plant Slayer to Proud Plant Parent

    Okay, let’s be real—I wasn’t always this “crazy plant lady” you see before you. In fact, I used to be a notorious plant killer. I’m talking serial succulent slayer, a black thumb with a graveyard of neglected greenery. If a plant even dared to grace my windowsill, it seemed to spontaneously combust. Dramatic? Maybe. But trust me, my lack of a green thumb was legendary.

    Then, something magical happened. My well-meaning friend, bless her soul, gifted me this sad-looking little fern for my birthday. I’m pretty sure she was hedging her bets, expecting it to join the choir invisible within a week. But something in me snapped. Maybe it was the fern’s drooping fronds whispering, “Help me, you’re my only hope!” Or perhaps it was the realization that my apartment looked like a beige prison cell. Whatever the reason, I vowed to keep this fern alive.

    plant alive isn’t rocket science. Who knew that a little water, sunlight, and the occasional pep talk (don’t judge) could work wonders? As I diligently cared for Fernie (yes, I named him), I started noticing something amazing—he was thriving! New fronds unfurled with an enthusiasm that was surprisingly contagious. My confidence grew, and soon I was adopting abandoned succulents, befriending forgotten ficuses, and even propagating pothos like a seasoned plant witch.

    Here’s the thing about plants—they talk to you. Not literally, of course (although sometimes I swear I hear Fernie whisper “More coffee, please”). But they communicate their needs in subtle ways. A drooping leaf? Thirsty. Yellowing tips? Too much sun. Suddenly, I was fluent in Plant, and it was surprisingly rewarding.

    Unexpected Benefits of Plant Parenthood: More Than Just Green Thumbs

    Becoming a plant parent has brought more than just greenery into my life—it’s brought a whole bunch of unexpected joys:

    • Stress-busting superpowers: Seriously, nothing calms the mind like digging your hands in some soil or misting a thirsty Monstera. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll.
    • A sense of accomplishment: Every new leaf is a tiny victory, a testament to your nurturing skills. Take that, self-doubt!
    • A home that feels more alive: Plants add life, color, and even personality to your space. Plus, they make you look like a responsible adult who can keep something alive besides takeout leftovers.
    • A connection to nature: In our tech-filled world, having a little piece of nature indoors is incredibly grounding and refreshing.
  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant



    My Brown Thumb Gets a Green Roommate

    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my nurturing abilities. My thumbs are decidedly brown. So, when my well-intentioned friend gifted me a houseplant – a cheerful little ZZ plant with leaves like shiny, dark green coins – I accepted it with a mix of delight and trepidation.

    “They’re practically indestructible,” my friend assured me. Famous last words, I thought.

    Plant Parenting)

    Armed with my newfound responsibility (and a healthy dose of fear), I dove headfirst into plant parenthood. I watered diligently, rotated the pot for optimal sunlight, and even invested in a fancy plant mister. I was determined to prove my brown thumb wrong.

    Turns out, I was trying too hard. My overzealous care resulted in soggy soil and yellowing leaves. My poor ZZ plant looked like it was about to stage a dramatic wilting scene. In a panic, I consulted Google (aka, every plant parent’s best friend) and discovered a simple truth: ZZ plants thrive on neglect. They prefer their soil dry and can tolerate low light conditions. Who knew?

    So, I eased up. I watered sparingly and let the plant bask in the indirect sunlight of my living room. And guess what? It thrived! My ZZ plant taught me a valuable lesson that applies to more than just houseplants: sometimes, the best approach is a gentle touch and a little space to breathe.

    Lesson #2: Resilience is a Beautiful Thing (And Houseplants Have It in Spades)

    Life, as we all know, throws curveballs. And sometimes, those curveballs hit your unsuspecting houseplant. Case in point: the Great Vacation Debacle of 2022. I returned from a 10-day trip to find my once-vibrant ZZ plant looking decidedly worse for wear. The leaves had drooped, and some had even turned an alarming shade of yellow. I was ready to write its obituary.

    But then I remembered Lesson #1. I gave it a good watering, whispered a few apologies, and waited. And wouldn’t you know it, the little plant bounced back! Within a week, it was standing tall, new growth emerging from its center. It was a powerful reminder that even after hardship or neglect, the capacity for regrowth and renewal is always there.