Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: houseplant love

  • Why I’m Convinced My Houseplant is Judging My Life Choices

    Why I’m Convinced My Houseplant is Judging My Life Choices



    We all have our quirks. Some of us talk to our pets (don’t judge!), others burst into song at the most inopportune times. Me? I swear my houseplant is judging me.

    The Side-Eye From a Spider Plant: A Plant Parent’s Journey

    It all started innocently enough. I, like many during the dark days of 2020, decided to become a plant parent. I envisioned a lush oasis, a testament to my nurturing abilities. What I got was Horace the Spider Plant, a creature of apparent habit and, dare I say, opinions.

    Horace took to his new home quickly enough, sprouting new growth with gusto. But then, a shift. I was having a particularly rough week – deadlines looming, love life nonexistent, questionable pizza choices – and I noticed Horace seemed…droopy. Not just regular “I need water” droopy, but a full-on “I am deeply disappointed in the life choices you’ve made” droop.

    At first, I laughed it off. Plants can’t judge…right?

    The Curious Case of the Coincidental Wilt: A Pattern Emerges

    But then the coincidences (or were they?) began. A disastrous online date? Horace’s leaves practically curled in on themselves. A particularly triumphant work presentation? The plant practically did a victory dance, new growth unfurling like confetti.

    My friends, initially amused, now fuel the fire.

    • “Did you water Horace with your tears after that text from Dave?”
    • “Wow, Horace is THRIVING. You must have finally folded that laundry pile.”

    I mean, they’re not wrong. The evidence is compelling.

    My Houseplant Stages an Intervention: The Final Straw

    The peak (or should I say, the wilting point) came during a particularly epic procrastination session. I was supposed to be finishing an important project, but instead, I found myself four hours deep into a reality TV marathon, fueled by leftover birthday cake.

  • Why I’m Convinced My Houseplant is Secretly Judging Me (and Other Weird Habits I’ve Developed)

    Why I’m Convinced My Houseplant is Secretly Judging Me (and Other Weird Habits I’ve Developed)

    Why I’m Convinced My Houseplant is Secretly Judging Me (and Other Weird Habits I’ve Developed)

    From Plant Killer to Paranoid Plant Parent

    Remember that time I accidentally killed a cactus? Yeah, I know, rookie mistake. You’d think succulents were hard to kill, but somehow I managed it. Fast forward to today, and I’m now the proud (and slightly neurotic) parent of fifteen thriving houseplants. And let me tell you, the transformation has been…weird.

    It all started subtly. I’d find myself talking to my peace lily, Phil. Just casual things, like, “Morning, Phil, looking perky today!” or “Don’t worry, buddy, I’ll water you soon.” Harmless, right? But then things escalated…

    The Side-Eye from Fernie: My Houseplant’s Silent Judgment

    It’s Fernie, my majestic Boston fern, who I suspect is the mastermind behind my descent into plant-induced madness. He sits there on his pedestal (okay, it’s a plant stand, but still), fronds cascading down like a green waterfall, and I swear he watches my every move.

    Like, the other day, I was stress-eating leftover pizza at 2 AM. As I shamelessly shoved the last cold slice into my mouth, I caught Fernie’s reflection in the window. And you know what? I swear he rolled his eyes. Okay, maybe it was just the breeze, but the judgment was palpable.

  • My Jungle of Joy: The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Consider It)

    My Jungle of Joy: The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Consider It)

    My Jungle of Joy: The Unexpected Joys of Being a Plant Parent (and Why You Should Consider It)

    Discover the unexpected joys of becoming a plant parent! From stress relief to home decor, this humorous blog post explores the benefits of nurturing plants and why you should give it a try.

    From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

    Let’s be honest, my thumbs have never been particularly green. In fact, I’m pretty sure they used to emit a faint black glow whenever I went near a delicate flower. My previous attempts at plant parenthood resulted in more casualties than a Shakespearean tragedy. But then, something changed. Maybe it was a global pandemic, maybe it was a quarter-life crisis, or maybe (just maybe) it was the adorable little succulent staring at me from the grocery store checkout line. Whatever the reason, I took the plunge, adopted the succulent (his name is Steve, by the way), and thus began my unexpected journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood.

    Stress Relief, One Leaf at a Time

    Remember that black thumb I mentioned? Turns out, caring for plants has actually turned it a vibrant shade of green (figuratively, of course… I still haven’t figured out that chlorophyll thing). Who knew that nurturing something other than my caffeine addiction could be so therapeutic? There’s something incredibly calming about digging in the soil, watering thirsty leaves, and watching new growth unfurl. It’s like meditation, but with more dirt and fewer existential questions. Plus, unlike my tendency to overthink every text message, plants are refreshingly straightforward. Too much water? Droopy leaves. Not enough sunlight? Leggy stems. They speak their needs clearly, and all it takes is a little attention to keep them thriving. And trust me, the feeling of successfully nursing a droopy plant back to health is way more satisfying than any “like” on social media.

    More Than Just a Pretty Face (But Oh, What a Face!)

    Let’s not forget the aesthetic benefits of being a plant parent. My once sparsely decorated apartment is now a veritable jungle of leafy goodness, and I’m not mad about it. Plants add life, color, and texture to any space, turning a boring beige box into a vibrant oasis. Need to fill an empty corner? Monstera deliciosa. Want to add some trailing elegance to a shelf? Hello, pothos! Craving a pop of color? Say no more, African violet. With so many shapes, sizes, and varieties to choose from, the possibilities for transforming your home into a verdant paradise are endless.

    Are You Ready to Grow With the Flow?

    So, dear reader, are you ready to experience the unexpected joys of plant parenthood? It’s more than just remembering to water something every now and then. It’s about cultivating life, reducing stress, and creating a beautiful space that reflects your nurturing spirit. Even if you’re a self-proclaimed black thumb like I was, I encourage you to give it a try. You might be surprised at the joy a little green friend can bring.

    What are you waiting for? Go adopt a plant (and maybe even a watering can while you’re at it)!

  • Is My Houseplant Secretly Judging Me? (The Evidence is Compelling)

    Is My Houseplant Secretly Judging Me? (The Evidence is Compelling)



    Is My Houseplant Secretly Judging Me? (The Evidence Is Compelling)

    We all have them, those little moments of self-doubt. But lately, mine have been amplified by a pair of suspicious, glossy leaves and a stem that seems to shift ever so slightly when I walk by. Yes, I’m talking about my houseplant, Herbert (don’t judge, he looks like a Herbert).

    The Case of the Dramatic Droop

    It all started subtly. I’d forget to water Herbert for a few days (okay, maybe a week), and he’d reward me with a dramatic wilting performance worthy of a Victorian fainting couch. But lately, the drooping has become more…pointed. Like, “Are you seriously going to make me thirsty again? I thought we were past this.”

    little too quickly once I’ve watered him, as if to say, “Took you long enough.” The judgment is palpable, people.

    The Curious Case of the Overnight Growth Spurt

    Here’s where things get truly bizarre. Herbert, for months, had been perfectly content with his modest existence on the bookshelf. Then, I had a particularly rough day. You know the kind: spilled coffee on my favorite shirt, missed the bus, accidentally liked my ex’s new girlfriend’s post from three years ago. As I’m wallowing in self-pity, I notice something peculiar. Herbert. Is. HUGE.

    Overnight, he’d sprouted a new leaf, vibrant and green, reaching towards the ceiling. It was almost…triumphant. Had he been holding back all this time, just waiting for the moment I was at my lowest to unleash his botanical dominance? Is this his way of saying, “See, at least someone in this house has their life together”?

  • 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.

  • Is My Houseplant Judging My Life Choices? (The Evidence is Compelling)

    Is My Houseplant Judging My Life Choices? (The Evidence is Compelling)

    Is My Houseplant Judging My Life Choices? (The Evidence is Compelling)

    We’ve all been there. You’re sprawled on the couch, three episodes deep into a reality TV marathon you swore you’d never watch, and your eyes meet those of your houseplant. You know, the one you PROMISED you’d water regularly and re-pot when it got rootbound? Yeah, that one. And in that moment, you just KNOW. It’s judging you.

    When My Fiddle Leaf Fig Threw Shade (Literally)

    My personal journey into the secret world of judgmental houseplants began with Ferdinand, my majestic fiddle leaf fig. Now, Ferdinand is a drama queen of the highest order. Give him a little too much sun? Scorched leaves. Not enough humidity? Cue the dramatic leaf drop that would make a soap opera star proud.

    But this time was different. I was in the midst of a particularly disastrous online dating spree, fueled by questionable wine choices and even more questionable swiping decisions. As I recounted the latest cringe-worthy date story to my friend, I noticed Ferdinand’s leaves seemed…droopy. Not just regular thirsty-droopy, but a special kind of I-can’t-even-look-at-you-right-now droopy.

  • 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)




    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.

  • 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

    I used to be a notorious plant killer. Seriously, I could take a cactus down in a matter of weeks. My thumbs weren’t just black, they were practically wearing tiny Grim Reaper costumes. So, when a friend gifted me a resilient snake plant a few years ago, I accepted with a mix of skepticism and dread. To my utter astonishment, not only did the plant survive, it thrived! That’s when my journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood began, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild (and surprisingly joyful) ride.

    Witnessing the Miracles of Life (and Photosynthesis)

    There’s something incredibly rewarding about nurturing another living thing. And yes, before you roll your eyes, plants are very much alive and kicking (metaphorically, of course). Watching a tiny sprout emerge from the soil or a new leaf unfurl is like witnessing a tiny miracle unfold before your very eyes. Suddenly, you understand those proud plant parent Instagram posts. You, too, will feel the urge to document every new growth spurt and share it with the world (or at least your closest friends).

    And the best part? Plants don’t judge your photography skills (or lack thereof). A blurry photo of your monstera’s newest fenestration is still a thing of beauty in the plant parent world.

  • 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!