Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: reformed plant kille

My Apartment Jungle: Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Join the Club!)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Let’s be honest, folks. I used to be a certified plant killer. My apartment housed a graveyard of neglected succulents and tragically thirsty ferns. I swore off plant parenthood, convinced I lacked the magical touch. But then, something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic-induced desire for life (any life!) in my tiny apartment, or maybe it was the allure of those perfectly curated Instagram jungles. Whatever it was, I decided to give plants another shot.

Fast forward to today, and my apartment is practically bursting at the seams with greenery. I’ve got towering monsteras vying for sunlight, sassy snake plants judging my every move, and even a peace lily that blooms more often than my social life!

plant parenthood, my friends, comes with a whole host of unexpected joys.

Benefits of Houseplants: 3 Reasons You Should Become a Plant Parent

1. Plants Are the Chillest Roommates (Except When They’re Dramatic)

Unlike my former human roommates (looking at you, Brenda, who never did the dishes!), plants are incredibly low-maintenance. They don’t hog the bathroom, steal your food, or complain about your questionable taste in reality TV. They’re perfectly content to bask in the sunlight, sip on some water, and occasionally throw you a new leaf or flower as a thank you.

Of course, like all roommates, plants have their moments. There will be times when your prized fiddle leaf fig decides to throw a dramatic tantrum, shedding leaves like it’s auditioning for a soap opera. But even these moments are strangely endearing. After all, who needs human drama when you can witness a plant passive-aggressively wilting?

2. Who Needs Therapy When You Can Talk to Your Plants?

Speaking of drama, let’s talk about the therapeutic benefits of plant parenthood. Did you know that talking to your plants can actually help them grow? Okay, maybe that’s debatable. But there’s something incredibly calming about tending to your green babies, gently wiping down their leaves, and whispering words of encouragement (or frustration, depending on their behavior).

Plus, watching a plant thrive under your care is a huge confidence booster. Every new leaf unfurling feels like a personal victory. It’s like, “Hey, I did that! I kept something alive that wasn’t powered by batteries or fueled by takeout!”

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 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, I wasn’t always a friend to flora. In fact, I had a bit of a reputation as a plant assassin. My thumbs weren’t just black, they were practically shrouded in a dark, wilting aura. My past victims? A jade plant that mysteriously turned to mush, a peace lily that looked anything but peaceful, and a cactus (a CACTUS!) that somehow withered under my care. It was a dark time.

But then, something changed. Maybe it was a global pandemic that forced me to stare at my bleak, plant-less apartment for months on end. Maybe it was a sudden urge to nurture something other than my sourdough starter. Whatever the reason, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot. And let me tell you, it’s been a wild, hilarious, and surprisingly fulfilling ride.

Plant Parenting: Wins, Fails, and Funny Stories
Of course, no journey to plant parenthood is complete without its fair share of mishaps and comedic moments. I’ve learned the hard way that overwatering is a thing (RIP, my second attempt at a peace lily). I’ve also had my fair share of battles with pesky fungus gnats (those little guys are persistent!).

But through it all, I’ve discovered that even plant parenting failures can be learning experiences (and great stories to tell at parties). Like the time I accidentally knocked over my prized monstera while trying to take a selfie with it (don’t judge me). Or the time I spent an entire afternoon trying to revive a droopy fern, only to realize I had been watering a fake plant for weeks (facepalm).

March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My 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 the grim reaper of greenery. I’m talking succulents shrivelling faster than my patience during rush hour traffic. My apartment resembled a graveyard of good intentions, littered with empty terracotta pots and drooping leaves.

Then, something magical happened. Call it a quarantine whim, a desperate plea for something living in my apartment that wasn’t judging my snack choices, or maybe just a touch of plant-envy from scrolling through Instagram (you know those perfectly curated plant corners we’re talking about). Whatever the reason, I decided to give plant parenthood another shot.

And guess what? It’s been amazing! Not only have I managed to keep a few leafy friends alive (some are even thriving, dare I say!), but the whole experience has brought a surprising amount of joy and calm into my life. Who knew?

The Unexpected Perks of Plant Parenthood

Here’s the thing about plants: they’re not as high-maintenance as you might think. Plus, they come with a whole host of unexpected perks:

1. They’re the Chillest Roommates Ever

No more passive-aggressive sticky notes about whose turn it is to do the dishes. Plants are silent, non-judgmental roommates who are content with a little water and sunlight. They won’t steal your food from the fridge, blast loud music at 3 am, or complain about your shoe collection (unless you count the occasional wilting leaf as a passive-aggressive protest, which I totally do).

March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join the Club)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Okay, let’s be honest. I used to be the person who couldn’t keep a cactus alive. Seriously, those things practically water themselves! My apartment was a graveyard of neglected succulents and wilting ferns.

But then something changed. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a quarter-life crisis, or maybe it was just that adorable little Monstera at the grocery store. Whatever it was, I took a chance, brought it home, and…didn’t kill it!

That’s when I discovered the unexpected joys of being a plant parent.

March 13, 2025
Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Join the Club)

From Black Thumb to Proud Plant Parent

Let’s be honest, I wasn’t always a friend to foliage. In fact, I was notorious for my ability to turn even the most resilient succulents into mushy, brown casualties. My past attempts at plant parenthood resembled a graveyard of good intentions, filled with drooping leaves and wilting dreams. But something changed recently. Maybe it was the pandemic, maybe it was a quarter-life crisis, or maybe (just maybe) it was the allure of those adorable miniature cacti on Instagram. Whatever the reason, I decided to give plant parenthood another try. And let me tell you, I’m never going back.

Therapy Grows on Trees (Well, Not Literally): The Mental Benefits of Plant Parenthood

Turns out, taking care of something other than myself (and my ever-growing to-do list) was surprisingly therapeutic. The simple act of watering, misting, and rotating my leafy companions became a mindful ritual, a welcome respite from the digital chaos of everyday life.

There’s something incredibly grounding about getting your hands dirty, feeling the cool soil, and witnessing firsthand the quiet miracle of growth. Plus, unlike my tendency to overthink every aspect of my own life, plants are refreshingly straightforward. They thrive on consistency and honesty, rewarding my efforts with vibrant colors and new leaves.

March 13, 2025
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.

March 12, 2025
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, my thumbs have always had a slightly morbid shade of green. I’m talking the kind of green that could make even the most resilient cactus shrivel in fear. I was the ultimate plant assassin, leaving a trail of crispy leaves and droopy stems in my wake. But then, something changed. Maybe it was a global pandemic, maybe it was an early mid-life crisis, or maybe, just maybe, it was the undeniable allure of a particularly charming monstera deliciosa at my local nursery. Whatever it was, I took the plunge, brought home that leafy green monster (pun intended), and braced myself for the inevitable.

And then… it didn’t die! In fact, it thrived. And with every new leaf unfurling, so did a newfound sense of pride and, dare I say, love? Turns out, being a plant parent comes with a whole host of unexpected joys.

Stress Relief: Finding Zen One Leaf at a Time

Remember those adult coloring books that were all the rage? Yeah, plant parenthood is like that, but better. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about digging your hands in the soil, giving your leafy companions a gentle misting, and watching them soak up the sunshine. It’s a form of mindfulness that doesn’t require you to sit still or chant mantras (though, feel free to serenade your plants if that’s your thing).

March 11, 2025
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. My thumbs have never been known for their verdant touch. In fact, I’m pretty sure I could kill a cactus in a desert. Okay, maybe not that bad, but you get the picture. Succulents wilted under my watch, spider plants surrendered their last legs, and don’t even get me started on that poor, innocent peace lily. Let’s just say it wasn’t very peaceful.

So, imagine my surprise when, in the midst of a global pandemic and fueled by endless sourdough bread baking, I found myself inexplicably drawn to the plant section of the grocery store. Fast forward two years, and my apartment looks like a greenhouse exploded (in the best way possible, of course). Turns out, plant parenthood is kind of amazing. Who knew?

1. Plants Are the Chillest Roommates Ever (Except for That One Drama Queen Fern)

Forget noisy roommates who steal your food and leave dirty dishes in the sink. Plants are the epitome of low-maintenance living. They don’t care if you blast your 90s playlist at 2 am, they’ll never borrow your clothes without asking, and they’ll happily accept whatever scraps of sunlight your apartment offers.

Sure, they might need a little water and the occasional pep talk (don’t judge, it works!), but trust me, their demands are far less demanding than even the most well-behaved cat or dog. Plus, they’ll never judge your questionable decorating choices. Except maybe that one dramatic fern I have. She’s a bit of a diva.

2. Who Needs Therapy When You Can Talk to Your Plants? (They’re Great Listeners, I Swear)

I know, I know, it sounds crazy. But hear me out. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about tending to your plants. It’s like a form of meditation, only instead of chanting “om,” you’re whispering sweet nothings to your monstera and admiring its new leaf.

And the best part? Plants give the BEST advice. They just sit there, looking all wise and leafy, never interrupting or offering unsolicited opinions. They’re basically the silent, green therapists we all need in our lives.

3. Prepare for the Ultimate Bragging Rights (And Maybe a Little Green Envy)

Remember that feeling of accomplishment when you successfully assembled Ikea furniture without resorting to duct tape and prayers? That’s how you’ll feel every time your plant sprouts a new leaf, blooms a vibrant flower, or generally thrives under your care.

Trust me, plant parenthood comes with serious bragging rights. Suddenly, you’ll find yourself snapping pictures of your leafy companions like a proud pet owner and subtly (or not so subtly) showcasing your green babies during Zoom calls. Be warned: you might also inspire a touch of envy among your less-green-thumbed friends.

So, Are You Ready to Become a Plant Parent?

Look, I get it. The thought of keeping another living thing alive can be intimidating, especially if you’ve got a history with plants like mine. But trust me, the rewards far outweigh the risks. Plus, with a little patience, a dash of love, and maybe a plant app or two, you, too, can experience the unexpected joys of being a plant parent. You might even surprise yourself.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I hear my fiddle leaf fig calling. Something about needing a pep talk and a Taylor Swift song…

March 10, 2025
Confessions of a Reformed Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Join My Club)

Let’s be honest, I used to be a walking, talking plant hazard. I’m talking crispy leaves, droopy stems, and enough guilt to fuel a small greenhouse. If plants had obituaries, mine would’ve said, “Died tragically from excessive love (or lack of watering, jury’s still out).”

plant parenthood another try. And let me tell you, it’s been a wild, wonderful, and surprisingly hilarious ride.

Discovering the Unexpected Benefits of Plant Parenthood

Turns out, caring for something other than myself (and my ever-growing to-do list) was exactly what the doctor ordered. Who knew that watching a tiny leaf unfurl could be so darn satisfying? Or that misting my ferns could feel like a meditative ritual?

Plant Community
One of the best parts about becoming a plant parent is the community. From online forums to local plant swaps, there’s a whole world of plant lovers out there just waiting to share their wisdom (and cuttings!). I’ve learned more from fellow plant enthusiasts than any gardening book could ever teach me, and the shared triumphs (and occasional “oops” moments) create a sense of camaraderie that’s both heartwarming and hilarious.

Plus, let’s be real, bragging rights are a thing. And showing off that rare monstera deliciosa you managed to propagate? Pure plant parent pride.

Ready to Embrace the World of Plant Parenthood?

Look, I get it. Plant parenthood can seem intimidating, especially if you’ve got a history of plant-related casualties (no judgment here!). But trust me, the rewards far outweigh the risks. You’ll discover new skills, connect with a supportive community, and find a sense of peace and accomplishment that only comes from nurturing another living thing.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab yourself a plant (maybe start with a low-maintenance one!), join the club, and get ready for a journey filled with unexpected joy, endless entertainment, and maybe even a little bit of dirt under your fingernails.

March 10, 2025