Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: green thumb

  • 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 Recovering Plant Killer

    Okay, I’ll admit it. I haven’t always had the greenest thumb. In fact, I used to be a notorious plant killer. I’m talking serial succulent assassin, notorious cactus crusher. You name it, I probably managed to send it to plant heaven (or maybe plant purgatory, considering my track record). But then something strange happened. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a sudden urge to nurture something other than my sourdough starter – whatever it was, I decided to give the whole plant parent thing another shot.

    And you know what? It’s been a wild ride. From unexpected triumphs (seriously, my ZZ plant is thriving) to hilarious mishaps (don’t ask about the Great Potting Soil Explosion of 2021), being a plant parent has brought a whole new level of joy (and chaos) to my life.

    Plants: The Unexpected Benefits of Indoor Green Therapy

    One of the biggest surprises? My plants have become my silent therapists. Seriously! There’s something incredibly calming about tending to your green companions after a long day. It’s like all the stress of the world melts away as you mist your ferns, check for new growth on your monstera, and maybe even have a little one-sided chat with your peace lily (don’t judge, we’ve all been there).

    Plus, there’s a real sense of accomplishment that comes with keeping a plant alive. Remember those days when I was practically a plant grim reaper? Well, now I’m like a plant whisperer. I can practically hear my spider plant whispering, “Thanks for not killing me, Jan.” (Okay, maybe I’m projecting a little, but you get the idea.)

    Life Lessons from the Plant World: Growth, Patience, and Imperfection

    But here’s the thing about plants – they don’t just teach you about responsibility, they also teach you about patience. Like, a lot of patience. You can’t rush a plant (believe me, I’ve tried), you just have to trust the process, give it what it needs, and wait. And sometimes, just when you’re about to give up hope, you’ll see a new leaf unfurling, reaching for the sunlight, and it’s like this tiny little miracle.

    Here are a few other life lessons I’ve picked up from my plant babies:

    • Sometimes you have to prune away the dead stuff to make room for new growth. (Deep, right?)
    • Even the strongest plants need support sometimes. (Hello, moss poles! And also, therapy. Therapy is good.)
    • There’s beauty in imperfection. (Because let’s be real, those perfectly curated Instagram plant shelves? Totally staged.)

    Ready to Become a Plant Parent? Here’s Why You Should!

  • The Unspoken Rules of Being a Plant Parent

    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Plant Parent




    The Unspoken Rules of Being a Plant Parent


    Confessions of a Newly Minted Plant Parent

    My descent into plant parenthood began innocently enough. It was a chilly afternoon, and I was browsing my local nursery, ostensibly for herbs to liven up my cooking. Then, my eyes met hers – a majestic Monstera Deliciosa, its leaves unfurling like verdant sculptures. “She’d look stunning in my living room,” I thought, completely forgetting about the rosemary I’d come for.

    Fast forward a few months, and my apartment looked like a jungle rave gone wrong. I’d acquired a veritable menagerie of leafy companions, each with its own personality and care requirements (who knew?). I’d become fluent in the language of drooping leaves and brown spots, and my Google search history was a litany of panicked queries like “Why is my cactus turning yellow?!” and “Can plants sense fear?”

    Turns out, being a plant parent isn’t just about watering your leafy roommates every now and then. It’s a crash course in botany, a lesson in patience, and a constant negotiation with Mother Nature. It’s also, as I’ve learned, governed by a set of unspoken rules.

    The Joys (and Quirks) of Plant Naming and Rituals

    One of the first things you learn as a plant parent is that every plant needs a name. It doesn’t matter if it’s a delicate fern or a prickly cactus, giving it a name is a rite of passage. Bonus points for creativity – my personal favorites include a peace lily named Serenity Now and a spider plant aptly christened Legolas.

    Then there are the rituals. You’ll find yourself developing a specific watering schedule, complete with pep talks (“You got this, Philodendron!”) and maybe even a dedicated playlist for your green gang (Motown seems to do the trick for mine). Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself talking to your plants, either. It’s perfectly normal, I swear. In fact, some studies suggest that talking to your plants can actually help them grow! (Or maybe that’s just me justifying my one-sided conversations with a Fiddle Leaf Fig named Ferdinand.)

    A close-up shot of a healthy plant with vibrant green leaves.
  • Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Get Your Green Thumb On)

    Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Get Your Green Thumb On)

    From Plant Grim Reaper to Proud Plant Parent: My Indoor Jungle Journey

    Let’s be real, folks. Before I became a “plant parent,” I was more of a plant grim reaper. My thumbs weren’t black; they were coated in a thick layer of horticultural homicide. I’m talking wilting ferns, crispy succulents, and peace lilies that looked anything but peaceful. Basically, if it was green and required photosynthesis, it stood no chance in my care.

    But then, something magical happened. Or maybe it was just sheer desperation for a splash of life in my apartment. Whatever the reason, I adopted a little pothos plant. And guess what? I kept it alive! Not just alive, but thriving! Turns out, behind that facade of a serial plant killer was a budding plant enthusiast just waiting to blossom. (See what I did there? Okay, I’ll stop with the plant puns… for now.)

    The Unexpected Joys of Watching Something Grow (Besides Your To-Do List)

    Once I tasted success (or should I say, “leafed” success?), I was hooked. Suddenly, I understood the allure of nurturing something and watching it flourish. Who knew that a little green friend could bring so much joy? Here’s the thing about plants – they don’t judge your messy bun or your questionable karaoke skills. They just chill, photosynthesize, and make your space look infinitely cooler. Win-win-win!

    Plus, there are some serious perks to being a plant parent that they don’t put on the care tags:

    • Stress relief: Caring for plants is surprisingly therapeutic. There’s something incredibly grounding about digging in the soil, watering your leafy companions, and watching them soak up the sunshine.
    • Improved air quality: Okay, maybe this one’s on the care tag, but it’s still awesome! Plants are like little air purifiers, working tirelessly to remove toxins and boost oxygen levels in your home. Talk about a breath of fresh air!
    • Boosted creativity: Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature (even the indoor kind) can spark creativity and improve focus. So, if you’re feeling stuck in a rut, maybe all you need is a new fiddle-leaf fig friend!

    It’s Not Just About the Plants, It’s About the Community (and the Cute Pots)

    One of the best parts of my plant parenting journey has been connecting with other plant lovers. There’s a whole community out there, from seasoned green thumbs to fellow beginners, who share tips, swap cuttings, and geek out over the latest rare species.

    And let’s not forget about the amazing world of plant accessories! From quirky planters to macrame hangers, there’s a whole universe of stylish ways to showcase your plant babies and add personality to your space.

    Ready to Grow With Us?

    Trust me, I get it. Plant parenthood can seem daunting at first, especially if you’ve got a history of accidental plant-icides like yours truly. But I’m here to tell you that anyone can do it! With a little patience, a dash of research, and maybe a helpful app or two, you’ll be surprised at what you can grow. So why not give it a try? You never know, you might just discover your inner plant whisperer!

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant





    Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from My Houseplant



    From Plant Killer to Plant Parent: My Journey to (Slightly) Greener Thumbs

    I’ve never been what you’d call “good” with plants. In fact, I’m infamous among friends for my ability to kill even the most resilient succulents. So, imagine their surprise (and my sheer terror) when I decided to adopt a houseplant. I know, I know, it sounded like a recipe for disaster, kind of like taking a goldfish for a walk in the park. But something about the little green fella at the farmers’ market called to me. Maybe it was the way its leaves drooped slightly, mirroring the perpetual exhaustion of a sleep-deprived millennial like myself. We were kindred spirits, united by our shared struggle to thrive.

    Plants Teach Us to Slow Down

    The first thing I learned was patience. My plant, which I affectionately named Gerald (all living things deserve a name, even the ones I’m likely to accidentally suffocate with over-watering), didn’t sprout new leaves overnight. It didn’t transform into a lush, verdant paradise after a single watering. In fact, for the first few weeks, I swear it did nothing but judge me silently from the corner of my living room. But then, one day, I noticed something. A tiny, green nubbin pushing its way out from the soil. It was a new leaf! I’d successfully kept something alive for longer than it takes to order takeout! This was a major victory, people. And it taught me that good things take time. Just like Gerald couldn’t be rushed into blooming, neither could my dreams, goals, or, you know, my ability to make a decent sourdough loaf.

    Lesson 2: Finding Routine and Calm in Caring for My Green Roommate

    Plants, like people, need sunshine and water to thrive. Seems obvious, right? Well, tell that to my past self who treated watering schedules like vague suggestions and considered any ray of sunlight hitting my apartment a bonus feature. Gerald, however, thrived in a routine. He needed a specific amount of sunlight each day and a consistent watering schedule. Who knew plants were such divas? Turns out, establishing a routine for Gerald wasn’t just good for him, it was good for me too. My once chaotic mornings became a little more structured, a little more mindful. Who knew that tending to a tiny green roommate could bring a sense of calm to my otherwise hectic life?

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

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




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


    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs have seen better days. In fact, they used to be infamous for their uncanny ability to turn even the most resilient houseplants into wilted, brown messes. My past attempts at plant parenthood resembled a graveyard of good intentions, littered with empty terracotta pots and drooping leaves.

    But something changed recently. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was an early midlife crisis, but I decided to give plants another shot. And let me tell you, it’s been a wild, surprisingly therapeutic, and surprisingly hilarious ride.

    Leaf Fig Taught Me Patience

    Enter Fiona, my notoriously dramatic fiddle leaf fig. Fiona, with her giant, elegant leaves, was supposed to be the crown jewel of my plant collection. Instead, she became my biggest challenge. Every brown spot, every dropped leaf felt like a personal failure. Why couldn’t I keep this finicky plant alive when everyone else on Instagram seemed to have mastered the art of fiddle leaf fig care?

    But slowly, through trial and error (and a lot of Googling), I started to understand Fiona’s needs. I learned that direct sunlight is her kryptonite, that overwatering is a cardinal sin, and that a gentle misting on a hot day is like a spa treatment for her delicate leaves.

    And guess what? Fiona thrived! Seeing her new growth, those vibrant green leaves unfurling, filled me with an absurd amount of pride. It was a lesson in patience, observation, and the incredible resilience of nature.

    More Than Just Pretty Decor: The Unexpected Perks of Plant Parenthood

    Here’s the thing about plants: they’re not just pretty decorations (although they do elevate my apartment’s aesthetic, let’s be real). They bring a sense of calm, a touch of nature, and a surprising amount of laughter into your life.

    Here are a few unexpected joys I’ve discovered:

    • Plants are the ultimate listeners. Have a bad day? Tell it to your Monstera. Need to vent about your boss? Your ZZ plant won’t judge.
    • They’re a source of endless entertainment. I swear, my prayer plant does a little dance every time I water it. And watching my string of pearls slowly but surely take over my bookshelf brings me an unreasonable amount of joy.
    • They connect you to a community. The plant-loving community is vast, welcoming, and full of people who understand the struggle of reviving a droopy peace lily.
  • Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)




    Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Join the Club)

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a plant assassin. I’m talking serial killer levels of destruction. Cacti? Wilted. Succulents? Soup. That poor peace lily never stood a chance. I resigned myself to a life devoid of greenery, convinced I was cursed with a black thumb.

    But then, something magical happened. My well-meaning friend gifted me a resilient snake plant (probably banking on my inability to kill it). And guess what? It survived! Not only did it survive, it thrived. That’s when I realized maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t a lost cause after all. That little snake plant opened my eyes to a world of unexpected joys, and I’m here to convert you, my fellow plant-challenged comrades, to the wonderful world of plant parenthood.

    plant thrive under your care. It’s a much-needed ego boost in a world that often feels determined to tear us down.

    Houseplant Home Decor: Affordable & Easy

    Let’s face it, decorating can be expensive and time-consuming. But guess what makes a statement without breaking the bank? Plants! They’re like living, breathing pieces of art that instantly elevate any space.

    Want to create a tropical oasis in your bathroom? Hello, majestic Monstera! Craving a touch of bohemian chic in your living room? String of pearls, baby! Feeling extra ambitious? Build a vertical garden and become the envy of your entire apartment complex! The possibilities are endless, and the best part is, your plant babies will only get bigger and more beautiful over time.

  • Why I Started Talking to Plants (and You Should Too)

    Why I Started Talking to Plants (and You Should Too)

    Why I Started Talking to Plants (and You Should Too!)

    The Day My Thumb Turned Green (Sort Of)

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs have never been known for their verdant touch. I’m more of a “oops, forgot to water you for three weeks” kind of person. My past attempts at plant parenthood resembled a slow-motion tragedy, with wilting leaves and drooping stems playing the starring roles. Then, something strange happened. I started talking to them.

    I know, I know. It sounds crazy. But hear me out! It all began during a particularly stressful week. I was venting to my peace lily, Phil, about deadlines and traffic jams when I realized something. Talking to Phil, even though he clearly wasn’t listening (or was he?), made me feel calmer, lighter. It was like therapy, but cheaper and with more photosynthesis.

    The Science Behind Talking to Plants (Yes, Really!)

    Turns out, there might be something to this whole plant-talking thing. While they might not be penning novels anytime soon, studies suggest that plants are more aware of their surroundings than we think. They respond to sound vibrations, and some research even hints that gentle words might promote growth. Who knew?

    But science aside, the real magic happens on a personal level. Talking to plants:

    • Reduces stress: Venting to a fern is surprisingly therapeutic. They don’t judge, interrupt, or offer unsolicited advice!
    • Boosts mindfulness: Taking a moment to appreciate your plants’ growth and beauty encourages you to slow down and be present.
    • Makes caring for them fun: Let’s face it, telling your cactus about your day is way more entertaining than just watering it silently.

    Operation Green Thumb: From Plant Killer to Plant Whisperer

    Ready to give plant-talking a try? Here are a few tips to get you started:

    1. Choose your confidant: Any plant will do! But starting with a low-maintenance variety like a snake plant or a ZZ plant might boost your confidence (and theirs!).
    2. Find your style: Whether it’s sharing good news, reading them poetry, or simply wishing them a good morning, find what feels natural and enjoyable.
    3. Don’t overthink it: Plants are surprisingly good listeners. Just be yourself and enjoy the connection.

    Ready to Chat With Your Plants?

    Talking to my plants transformed me from a plant killer to someone who genuinely enjoys their company (and keeps them alive!). It’s a simple act that brings joy, mindfulness, and maybe even a little extra growth to both my plants and me. So, why not give it a try? You might be surprised by what you learn – about plants and yourself.

    What are your thoughts on talking to plants? Have you tried it? Share your experiences in the comments below!

  • The Day I Realized My Plant Was Judging My Life Choices

    The Day I Realized My Plant Was Judging My Life Choices



    The Day My Plant Judged My Life Choices: A Hilarious Tale of Green Guilt

    We’ve all been there. You’re sprawled on the couch in your oldest sweatpants, a half-eaten bag of chips dangerously close to becoming your dinner, binge-watching reality TV for the third hour straight. It’s fine, you tell yourself, everyone needs a night off. But then, you catch it. A flash of green in the corner of your eye. You turn your head slowly, and there it is: your plant, leaves perfectly perched, silently judging your every move.

    The Shameful Stare of a Fiddle Leaf Fig

    My personal journey into the secretly judgmental world of plants began with Ferdinand, my fiddle leaf fig. Now, Ferdinand isn’t just any plant. He’s a drama queen, a diva, a green-leafed emperor who demands constant attention and the perfect amount of indirect sunlight. I, on the other hand, am… well, let’s just say my life doesn’t always scream “responsible plant parent.”

    It was a Tuesday, I think. Or maybe a Wednesday? Honestly, the days all blur together when you’re existing solely on caffeine and the promise of ordering takeout later. I was in my usual state of post-work slump, scrolling through social media with the attention span of a goldfish. Ferdinand was basking in his usual spot by the window, looking effortlessly elegant as always.

    Suddenly, I felt a shift in the atmosphere. A prickling sensation on the back of my neck. I looked up, and that’s when I saw it. Ferdinand’s leaves seemed to be… drooping? Was he wilting? Panicking, I scrambled for my watering can, only to realize I’d forgotten to refill it (again). As I sheepishly filled the can, I could have sworn Ferdinand let out a dramatic sigh. Okay, maybe not a sigh, but there was definitely some serious side-eye happening.

  • 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 Brown Thumb

    Let’s be honest, my history with plants was less than stellar. I’m pretty sure I could kill a cactus in a desert. So, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a perfectly healthy peace lily, I accepted with a grimace disguised as gratitude. “Don’t worry,” I told her, “I’ve totally turned over a new leaf!” (Pun intended, of course). Little did I know, this leafy green roommate would teach me more than just how to keep something alive.

    Peace Lily

    The first few weeks were a crash course in Plant Parenthood 101. I overwatered, underwatered, and nearly repotted the poor thing in a fit of misguided enthusiasm. Just when I thought all hope was lost, my droopy, yellowing peace lily taught me a valuable lesson: sometimes, you just need to breathe.

    Turns out, plants are pretty good at signaling their needs. Wilting leaves? Needs water. Brown spots? Too much sun. By paying attention to these subtle cues, I learned to slow down, observe, and respond thoughtfully, not just to my plant‘s needs but to my own as well. Who knew a little mindful observation could be so grounding?

    Lesson #2: Cultivating Patience – The Slow, Sweet Reward of New Growth

    Now, I’m a pretty impatient person. I like instant gratification, quick results, and the ability to fast-forward through the boring parts of life (and movies, let’s be real). But my peace lily, bless its heart, operates on its own sweet time.

    Waiting for new growth became a lesson in delayed gratification. It taught me to appreciate the small victories – a new leaf unfurling, a subtle shift towards the sunlight. This newfound patience even spilled over into other areas of my life. Suddenly, I wasn’t as fazed by long lines at the grocery store or traffic jams on the freeway.

  • 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


    Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my green thumb. In fact, my plant-parenting skills are more comparable to a desert sandstorm than a nurturing rainforest. So, when my well-intentioned friend gifted me a leafy Calathea Orbifolia (a notoriously dramatic diva of the plant world), I knew I was in for a wild ride.

    From Black Thumb to…Slightly Less Black Thumb

    My journey with Orbie (yes, I named her) started out predictably rocky. I managed to overwater her within the first week, resulting in droopy leaves that seemed to judge my every move.

    life, I suppose): even when we mess up royally, there’s always a chance for redemption. I finally learned to pay attention to Orbie’s subtle cues. Her drooping leaves taught me the importance of listening, of observing the needs of those around me (and not just assuming I know what’s best). Who knew a plant could be such a demanding yet insightful teacher?

    Learning Patience From a Calathea

    We live in a world obsessed with instant gratification. Want to watch a movie? Stream it now. Need groceries? Order online. But Orbie, with her slow and steady growth, taught me the beauty of patience. I learned to appreciate the small victories: a new leaf unfurling, a subtle shift towards the sunlight.