How many plants do you own? At last count I have 24 plants đą in my home. Agreed, that seems like a high number, but the benefits are AMAZING! Plants clear the air of toxins, allow us to bring nature indoors, decrease our stress levels, improve our mood, and add texture, energy, and beauty to our homes.
Pictured, are some of my favorites (ones I currently own and havenât killed đ).Truly, these gems are EASY to care for, despite my previous lack of know how, which for a time resulted in the demise of once green and leafy beauties. Determined not to give up, Iâve sought out the plants below which are lovely, healing, and resilient, natures caregivers.
From left to right pictured above:
đżPothos- the most resilient ever
đżFiddle Leaf Fig- absolute beauty
đżAloe- healing for scratches & scrapes
đżPeace Lily- comforting, received as a bereavement gift 12 years ago when my son passed away
đżCurly Fig- looks like a great hair day with moisture and volume âď¸
đżMoney Plant- lovely leaves add interest
đżAglaonema- rich color with white veining
đżSnake Plant- adds vertical dimension
đżStrawberry Begonia- adds lush texture
And
đżSchefflera (not pictured ) is another graceful, easy care option
Over time Iâve learned a few tips:
-Plants have watering intervals that work best for each. Aloe or the Snake plant thrive with very little water, and only need a drink once every 2 weeks. Others, like the fiddle leaf fig which comes in a larger and dwarf variety do best with water once weekly. Iâve found watering every Saturday (or every other) a helpful way to remember. I also keep the care tags together in a Ziploc bag that I can reference easily.
-Plants generally donât like soggy roots. Using a separate plastic planter inside the decorative one with a little room between each allows the water to drain away from the roots and prevents them from rotting. If you donât have an extra planter, adding some pebbles to the bottom of the planter below the soil before placing the plant can also create a barrier to support water moving away from the roots. The exception to this Iâve found for houseplants is Pothos. It loves moisture and can thrive directly in a vase of water.
-Be attentive to your plants specific needs, some need a sunny spot right in front of a window, while others are content with medium light. Some plants like Aglaonema prefer low light and would do great on a hallway table. Using fertilizer sticks or liquid a few times a year is also another support to plants.
Include plants as a way to support your own wellness and care for yourself. They give so much- and you, my caregiver friend, deserve everything. Plant care can mirror our own wellness. Even the most low maintenance plant requires some care and tending to thrive. Consider your own needs for growth. Develop a schedule of care that meets your needs while you support others, Are you drinking enough water and receiving enough to nourish you? Are you getting enough sunshine, do you have stable supports? Are you answering the questions necessary for strengthening your roots and producing the best results. Wishing you wellness and growth. đ¤
