Just Relaxed Blog

Tag: succulents

  • 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)




    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.

  • 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 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).
  • Is My Houseplant Judging My Life Choices? (I Think So.)

    Is My Houseplant Judging My Life Choices? (I Think So.)





    We’ve all been there. You know, that moment when you’re scarfing down leftover takeout at 2 AM in your pajamas and you glance up at your perfectly poised houseplant, bathed in the glow of the refrigerator light, and swear you see a look of judgment in its…leaves? Okay, maybe it’s just me. But hear me out!

    When My Fiddle Leaf Fig Sided With My Cat

    It all started with Ferdinand, my majestic fiddle leaf fig. He’s the kind of plant that just exudes an air of quiet sophistication, you know? Always perfectly positioned in the sunlight, leaves gleaming like emerald dinner plates. One day, I was having a particularly stressful day – deadlines looming, laundry piling up, the whole nine yards. I may have unleashed a string of curse words at the microwave when my leftovers refused to heat evenly. Suddenly, I noticed Ferdinand’s leaves seemed to droop ever so slightly. At the same time, my cat, Mr. Jinx (who, let’s be honest, lives a life of pure luxury compared to my own), sauntered over to Ferdinand and rubbed against his pot with a smug look on his furry little face. Was it my imagination, or did Ferdinand lean in for a head scratch? I swear, they were both judging me.

    Judging My Watering Schedule?

    Then there’s my succulent collection. Now, succulents are supposed to be low-maintenance, right? The “chill” plants, content with minimal water and sunlight. Well, mine seem to have missed the memo. I swear, every time I forget to water them for a few days (okay, maybe a week…or two), they shrink just a little bit more. It’s like they’re saying, “Seriously? Again? We’re trying to thrive here, but you’re making it really hard with your inconsistent watering schedule.” And the worst part? They’re right. I am a hot mess when it comes to remembering to water my plants. But do they have to be so passive-aggressive about it?

    Peace Lily and the Monday Blues: A Conspiracy?

    But the final straw? It has to do with my peace lily. Now, peace lilies are supposed to be dramatic, right? They wilt dramatically when they need water, then perk right back up after a good drink. Well, mine has taken it to a whole new level. It’s like clockwork: Every Monday morning, just as I’m scrambling to get ready for work, I notice my peace lily has staged a dramatic fainting spell. Leaves drooping, the whole shebang. And every time, without fail, I end up being late for work because I’m too busy reviving my melodramatic plant. Coincidence? I think not. I’m convinced my peace lily is in cahoots with the Monday blues.

    Help! Are My Plants Judging Me?

    Maybe I’m imagining things. Maybe it’s just the stress of being a millennial trying to adult in this crazy world. Or maybe, just maybe, my plants really are judging my life choices. What do you think? Am I alone in this, or have you ever caught your houseplants throwing some serious side-eye?


  • 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)!

  • 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 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.

  • 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, 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.

  • 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!).

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant



    My Descent into Accidental Plant Parenthood

    Let’s be honest, before last year, my thumbs were about as brown as my morning coffee. The only thing I’d successfully grown was a healthy crop of dust bunnies under the couch. But then, a well-meaning friend gifted me a houseplant – a cute little succulent named Steve (yes, I name my plants, don’t judge!).

    “He’s low-maintenance,” she assured me, “practically thrives on neglect!” Famous last words.

    Even Low-Maintenance Friendships Need Nurturing

    Turns out, even succulents have standards. Who knew? I, in my infinite wisdom, took “low-maintenance” to mean “no-maintenance.” I’m talking weeks without a drop of water, zero sunlight (poor Steve resided in a dark corner because, aesthetics, duh!), and absolutely no conversation (do plants even like jazz?).

    Naturally, Steve staged a silent protest. His once-plump leaves started to resemble tiny, wrinkly fingers. He was basically a grumpy, miniature cactus giving me the side-eye. That’s when I realized, even low-maintenance relationships require effort. Just like we nurture our friendships with check-ins and shared experiences, plants, in their own silent way, need our attention and care.

    Lesson #2: Resilience is a Beautiful Thing (Especially for Houseplants)

    Determined to redeem myself (and save Steve from a tragic, crispy fate), I did my research. I learned about proper watering techniques (apparently, drowning is a thing!), the importance of sunlight (who knew!), and even invested in some plant food (turns out, Steve is a foodie!).

    And guess what? He rallied! Slowly but surely, Steve perked up. His leaves plumped, new growth emerged, and he even gifted me with a tiny, adorable flower. It was a powerful reminder that even after setbacks, even when we feel neglected or wilted, with a little care and attention, we can bounce back stronger than ever.

  • The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

    The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant


    succulent, I knew it was living on borrowed time.

    This wasn’t just any succulent, though. This one was tiny, a little green soldier in a plastic pot smaller than a coffee cup. I figured I’d give it a week before it joined the great compost heap in the sky.

    succulent could flourish, what else could I be wrong about?

    Lesson #1: Small Actions, Big Impact

    I’ll admit, my plant care routine was pretty basic. A splash of water every other week, a sunny spot on the windowsill – that’s it. Yet, these small, consistent actions made a world of difference. The succulent grew, proving that even the tiniest efforts, when done consistently, can have a huge impact.

    This realization spilled over into other areas of my life. I started applying the “small actions, big impact” principle to everything from writing (a paragraph a day adds up!) to fitness (hello, 10-minute workouts!). It was surprisingly effective and way less daunting than trying to overhaul my entire life overnight.

    Lesson #2: Sometimes, You Just Need a Change of Scenery

    One day, I noticed my trusty succulent was looking a little… droopy. I tried everything – more water, less water, even serenading it with my questionable rendition of “Here Comes the Sun.” Nothing worked. Then, it hit me: maybe it just needed a change.

    I moved the pot from the windowsill to a shelf across the room. And guess what? It perked right up! It turns out, even plants get stuck in a rut. Sometimes, a little change of environment is all it takes to thrive.

  • My Life as a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)

    My Life as a Recovering Plant Killer (and Why You Should Totally Become a Plant Parent Too)




    My Life as 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 more of a graveyard than a thriving jungle. I’m talking crispy leaves, droopy stems, the whole shebang. I was basically the grim reaper of the plant world. But then, something magical happened. I brought home a little succulent named Steve (yes, I name my plants, don’t judge!), and against all odds, he survived! Not only did he survive, but he thrived under my care. That’s when I realized that maybe, just maybe, I wasn’t a lost cause after all. And thus began my journey into the wonderful, weird, and surprisingly hilarious world of plant parenthood.

    Stress Relief, One Leaf at a Time

    You know those days when you feel like you’re drowning in to-do lists and deadlines? Yeah, we all have them. But let me tell you, there’s something incredibly therapeutic about digging your hands in some soil, giving your plants a little water, and watching them soak it all up. It’s like meditation, but with more chlorophyll. And the best part? Plants don’t talk back, judge your messy bun, or steal the covers at night. They’re the perfect listeners, even if they do occasionally shed a leaf or two on the carpet. (Just me? Okay, moving on…)

    Plants as Decor: From Bare Walls to Urban Jungle Oasis

    Okay, confession time: I’m a sucker for a good home decor makeover show. But let’s be real, who has the budget for a complete overhaul every season? Not this plant lady! That’s where my leafy friends come in. Plants are like nature’s own little pieces of art. They add life, color, and texture to any room, and the best part is, they come in all shapes, sizes, and levels of sass. (Looking at you, dramatic Fiddle Leaf Fig in the corner.)

    Here are a few ways plants can level up your home decor game:

    • Create a statement: A large potted plant can instantly become the focal point of a room, adding drama and intrigue.
    • Fill empty spaces: Got an awkward corner or a sad, empty shelf? Plants to the rescue!
    • Bring the outdoors in: Even if you live in a concrete jungle, plants can help create a sense of peace and tranquility, reminding you of the beauty of nature.

    Ready to Become a Plant Parent?

    So, there you have it. My journey from plant killer to proud plant parent. It’s been a wild, leafy ride, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world (except maybe for a rare variegated Monstera, but that’s a story for another time). Trust me, if I can keep a plant alive, anyone can!