Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: plant journey

Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)
From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Let’s be honest, my history with plants was less “green thumb” and more “leaves-turning-brown-on-contact.” I once managed to kill a cactus. A CACTUS. You know, the plant that thrives on neglect? Yeah, not even those desert warriors could survive my presence.

So, imagine my surprise when, during the depths of lockdown boredom, I found myself inexplicably drawn to a sad-looking peace lily at the grocery store. It was like it was sending me an S.O.S. with its droopy leaves. Against my better judgment (and the warnings of my roommate), I took it home. And that, my friends, is how my journey into the wonderful world of plant parenthood began.

The Unexpected Joys of Watching Things Grow (No, Really!)

I’m not going to lie, the first few weeks were a nerve-wracking dance of Googling “how much water does a peace lily need” and frantically checking for signs of life. But then, something magical happened. My neglected peace lily, the one I was convinced I’d already murdered with kindness (or lack thereof), sprouted a new leaf.

That tiny, green shoot filled me with an absurd amount of joy. It was like witnessing a tiny miracle, a testament to the fact that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t destined to be a plant grim reaper after all. And honestly, that feeling? It’s addictive. There’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing another living thing and watching it thrive under your care.

Plants: The Chillest Roommates You’ll Ever Have

Unlike my actual roommate who tends to leave dirty dishes in the sink and blast terrible music at 2 a.m., my plants are the epitome of chill. They don’t require awkward small talk, they haven’t once complained about my questionable taste in reality TV shows, and they actually improve the air quality. Win-win!

Plus, they’re excellent listeners. Having a bad day? Tell it to the succulents! Feeling stressed? Confide in your monstera! They won’t judge (or at least, I don’t think they will…).
- Bonus: Plants are proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. Science says so!
- Double Bonus: They can even make your home look more stylish. Forget expensive artwork, just get yourself a fiddle leaf fig and watch the compliments roll in!
Ready to Embrace Your Inner Plant Parent?

So, what are you waiting for? Ditch that black thumb and join the wonderful world of plant parenthood! Trust me, it’s way more fun (and less messy) than you might think.

Now, tell me, what’s your biggest fear about becoming a plant parent? Let me know in the comments below!
March 13, 2025
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 Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Okay, confession time: I used to be a notorious plant killer. Seriously, I could wither a succulent in a sauna. Give me a cactus, and I’d somehow manage to drown it. It was a sad state of affairs. So, imagine my surprise when, during a particularly uneventful trip to the grocery store, I found myself inexplicably drawn to a droopy little peace lily.

“Don’t do it,” my inner voice cautioned, “Remember Barry the begonia? And what about Steve the spider plant? Their demise still haunts my dreams!”

But something about the lily’s sad little leaves called to me. Maybe it was the promise of some much-needed greenery in my life, or maybe it was the deeply discounted price tag. Whatever the reason, I caved.

And that, my friends, is how my journey into the unexpected (and surprisingly delightful) world of plant parenthood began.

March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)
From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a plant killer. A serial one, in fact. I’d walk into the garden center with the best intentions, seduced by the vibrant orchids and leafy ferns, only to watch them wither and die a week later. My apartment looked like a graveyard of neglected greenery, a testament to my inability to keep anything alive that wasn’t powered by batteries.

But then something magical happened. I stumbled upon a scraggly little succulent at a flea market, a dusty survivor with a “please love me” look in its tiny pot. Against my better judgment (and the advice of my horrified friends), I took it home.

And guess what? That little succulent thrived! It grew new leaves, unfurled delicate blooms, and basically became my plant child. I was hooked. Thus began my journey into the wonderful, wacky world of plant parenthood.
Leafy Roommates
Now, I know what you’re thinking: Plants? Really? What’s so great about a bunch of leafy roommates who don’t pay rent? Well, let me tell you, the joys of plant parenthood are many and surprising:
- Stress Relievers Extraordinaire: Forget the expensive spa day. Caring for plants is incredibly therapeutic. There’s something deeply calming about digging your hands in soil, watering thirsty leaves, and watching new growth emerge. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll.
- Interior Design on a Budget: Plants are the ultimate home décor hack. They add instant life, color, and texture to any space, transforming your humble abode into a vibrant oasis (or at least a convincing Instagram backdrop). And the best part? They’re way cheaper than that designer sofa you’ve been eyeing.
- They Make You Look Responsible (Kind Of): Let’s face it, keeping a plant alive gives the illusion of having your life together. Sure, you might forget to pay your bills on time, but hey, at least your monstera is thriving! It’s a small victory, but we’ll take it.
Plant Parenthood for Beginners: Tips for Success (Even if You’re a Recovering Plant Killer)

Ready to embrace your inner plant parent? Awesome! Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Start Small and Simple: Don’t go overboard with a finicky fiddle-leaf fig right off the bat. Opt for beginner-friendly options like snake plants, ZZ plants, or the aforementioned succulents. They’re practically indestructible, even for us recovering plant killers.
2. Don’t Overwater (Seriously): Overwatering is the kiss of death for most houseplants. When in doubt, feel the soil. If it’s dry, water it. If it’s damp, leave it alone. Your plants (and your peace of mind) will thank you.
3. Embrace the Learning Curve: Look, even seasoned plant parents kill a plant (or five) from time to time. It’s all part of the journey. Learn from your mistakes, do your research, and remember, every brown leaf is an opportunity for growth (pun intended).
March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer: The Unexpected Joys of Plant Parenthood (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)

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

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent: My Story

Let’s be honest, folks. For the longest time, my thumbs were about as green as a lump of coal. I’m talking succulent homicide, peace lily massacre – you name it, I’d accidentally offed it. So, naturally, the thought of becoming a “plant parent” filled me with a special kind of dread, usually reserved for trips to the dentist and doing my taxes.

But then, something magical happened. My well-meaning but misguided friend gifted me a scraggly little peace lily for my birthday. Figuring it was already half-dead, I did the bare minimum: watered it occasionally, whispered apologies when I forgot, and basically hoped for the best.

plant. That’s when it hit me: maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t destined for a life of horticultural homicide. Maybe, with a little effort (and a lot of Google searches), even I could experience the joys of plant parenthood.

Why You Should Become a Plant Parent: Joy #1 – Plants are the Chillest Roommates

Forget noisy neighbors, passive-aggressive roommates, or significant others who leave dirty socks on the floor. Plants are the ultimate low-maintenance companions. They don’t care if your apartment is a mess, they won’t judge your questionable taste in music, and they’ll never steal your leftovers.

Seriously, all they ask for is a little sunlight, some water, and maybe a pep talk now and then (don’t judge, it works for me!). In return, they’ll purify your air, add a touch of life and color to your space, and make you feel like a domestic goddess/god who has their life together (even if you secretly don’t, like me!).

Benefit #2 of Plant Parenthood: Watching Your Plant Babies Grow is Therapeutic

Remember that feeling of accomplishment you got from completing a 1,000-piece puzzle? Or finally finishing that Netflix series you were binge-watching? Well, watching your plant babies sprout new leaves, unfurl delicate blooms, or even just stubbornly cling to life is surprisingly similar.

It’s like a tiny reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, growth and beauty are still possible. Plus, there’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants – it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and forget about your worries for a while (unless, of course, you’re worried about overwatering, but that’s a story for another time).

March 13, 2025
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, I wasn’t always a green thumb. In fact, I was infamous for accidentally murdering even the hardiest of succulents. My friends gifted me plastic plants out of pity (which, ironically, I managed to knock over and break). But then, something magical happened: I adopted a scraggly little basil plant from the clearance aisle.

This little basil, against all odds and my complete lack of horticultural knowledge, thrived. It sprouted new leaves, it smelled divine, and it even survived a near-death experience involving an overturned watering can (oops!). That’s when I realized: plants weren’t just green decorations, they were tiny, resilient lifeforms I could actually keep alive! And dare I say, I was starting to enjoy their company.

The Little Plant Victories That Feel Like Major Wins

Being a plant parent is an emotional rollercoaster, but the highs are surprisingly high. Here are a few moments that’ll have you fist-pumping the air like you just won the plant lottery:
- Witnessing new growth: That first tiny leaf unfurling? It’s basically a miracle.
  
  March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)
From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Okay, confession time. I used to be a notorious plant killer. Like, give-me-a-cactus-and-I’d-find-a-way-to-dehydrate-it kind of plant killer. My thumbs were anything but green. Then, something magical happened. I adopted a sad-looking peace lily from the grocery store clearance aisle. It was a total impulse buy, fueled by a potent mix of coffee and the delusional belief that this time would be different.

And you know what? It was.

That peace lily, bless its resilient little heart, not only survived but thrived under my care. That’s when I realized that being a plant parent wasn’t just about keeping something green alive—it was about the unexpected joys that came with it.
plant parent is like that, but on a whole other level. Every new leaf unfurling, every bloom that bursts open, feels like a personal victory.

And you better believe I document every milestone. My camera roll is basically a plant photoshoot waiting to happen. “Oh, you got a promotion? That’s cool. My monstera just sprouted TWO new leaves!”

But seriously, there’s something incredibly rewarding about nurturing another living thing and watching it flourish. It’s like having a tiny, silent roommate who communicates solely through growth spurts and the occasional dramatic leaf droop (more on that later).

Joy #2: Embracing Your Inner Plant Whisperer (and the Occasional Crisis Aversion)

Before becoming a plant parent, I never thought I’d be the type to have full-blown conversations with inanimate objects. Now? I’m basically fluent in plant.
- “Hmm, your leaves are looking a little droopy. Thirsty?” Waters generously
- “Oh, you’re leaning towards the window? You must be craving some sunshine!” Strategically repositions plant for optimal light exposure
It’s amazing how quickly you learn to read the subtle cues of your plant children. And let me tell you, the sense of accomplishment when you diagnose a problem (is it overwatering? Underwatering? Pest infestation?) and successfully nurse your plant back to health? Pure. Gold.

Plus, there’s the added bonus of developing a superhuman ability to spot a spider mite from a mile away. Trust me, your non-plant parent friends will be amazed (and slightly terrified) by your newfound skills.

March 13, 2025
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.

March 12, 2025
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.

March 12, 2025
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.

March 12, 2025
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, my thumbs were about as brown as my neglected cactus (RIP, Spike). I thought I was destined for a life devoid of greenery, except for the occasional wilting supermarket bouquet. But then, something miraculous happened. I was gifted a resilient little snake plant, and against all odds (and my complete lack of skills), it thrived!

That’s when I realized that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t doomed to be a plant murderer after all. Fast forward to today, and my apartment looks like a scene out of Jumanji, but in the best way possible. I’ve discovered the unexpected joys of being a plant parent, and trust me, it’s more than just watering and hoping for the best.

The Joys of Plant Parenthood: Talking to Your Leafy Companions

Look, I know what you’re thinking – talking to your plants is a one-way ticket to Crazy Town. But hear me out! There’s something incredibly therapeutic about whispering words of encouragement to your fiddle-leaf fig or celebrating a new leaf with your monstera.

March 12, 2025