So, you have decided to add to your family, have ya? Well, congrats! Becoming a new plant parent is such a cool and fun title, but there are a couple things you should probably know before diving off the deep end of this commitment. They definitely don’t need as much as another human or a pupper. Nonetheless, just like those cuties, plants still need the same type of preparation and patience as they do!
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New Plant Parent’s Guide
Just like any other living thing under your care – it is not just about you anymore! Yup – that’s right! This just means that you need to understand the needs of the individual plant(s) that you have. And the best way to do this? Research, research, research! I know it may feel like school again, having to jot down notes and keeping different procedures for different plants. But, these little buddies will give you so much brightness and color to your life to make it all so much more rewarding!
Depending on their type, you will need to research their sunlight, soil, and watering needs. Each new plant needs a certain lifestyle – just like you! Some don’t need as much water (like succulents) and some don’t need as much sunlight (like ferns) so be sure that you are not overdoing anything with what you have! Practice finding a balance, it may take you a little while, but I know you will get it figured out! I mean, aren’t we all still figuring out our own routines? No? Just me? Okay…anyways! Work their care into your weekly routine for optimal growth and care for your baby plants.
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Advice for the New Plant Parent
Here is a little tidbit of advice that many do not expect when it comes to being a new plant parent – it may get a little…foul. Plants can get smelly, sticky, and slimy! But, noooo – not your plant! But, yes, yes your plant can and will get like that from time to time. Be prepared with proper watering techniques – over-watering may cause soft and squishy leaves. Make sure you have adequate trimming shears to cut off dead limbs or to ensure healthy growth for your plants. Plants that have dead ends may start to smell or break off causing a mess of brown leaves around the house. Keeping plants too damp may cause root rot or even mold – so always be on the lookout for that!
A special thanks to the Loft Garden Oasis for the photo location.
For those of you who may be a little like me, patience is going to be key in making sure that you have the best time being a new plant parent. You may fail at times and you may fail hard. But guess what? We all do! And maybe a green thumb is something you may not have. But practice makes perfect and you can only get better! You may also think that they are not growing at the rate you thought they would or maybe not even look like what Pinterest says they should. To help you steer clear of this conflict, start with a little dude at first then work your way up – take your time building up your new plant parent credentials.
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And lastly be fully prepared to not stop at just one! Having these beauties all around your home will make you think to yourself, “You know what would look good with this plant? MORE OF THEM!” And honestly, you are not wrong. So, go out and get a ton more! Play with different types of plants and see what you like, what you think looks good in your environment, and what your capabilities can handle with other plants. Keep adding to your heart’s content and continue to discover new ways to care for your plants to keep you on your toes!
I would love to see all of your little plant babies so be sure to tag me in your next family photo! If you are plant obsessed, you might also like to read about the 10 Things Every Plant Parent Knows all too Well.
Bella Bucchiotti
Bella Bucchiotti is a storyteller, food lover, dog mom and adventure seeker living on the Pacific coast. She shares her passion for food, dogs, fitness, adventures, travel and philanthropy, in hopes of encouraging followers to run the extra mile, try new recipes, visit unfamiliar places and stand for a cause. Bella lives with Type 1 Diabetes and Celiac Disease.
I can raise kids and cats, but have a green thumb when it comes to plants. I have always wanted to be a good plant parent though so I admire all your lovely plants.
I have never been able to keep a plant alive. We have some office plants and I am trying to follow the directions of my co-workers.
Loveee the pictures. I think it would be so cool to be in a house full of plants.
I can’t even keep a basil plant alive!
These pictures are so pretty, thank you for the tips!
The number of plants you have is impressive! I have a hard time keeping one alive.
My goodness I love the title of this. I’m an experienced human parent but not a plant one. Thanks for the tips!
Beautiful pics! Plant care does not come naturally to me. Kids, yes. Plants, no. It took all of my kids growing up and going off to college before I learned to be a good plant parent!
This post came at the right time! I have so much trouble with keeping my plants alive.
Oh my goodness, this is my dream home! I just love plants and even though I just have one at the moment, I hope to have a big plant family one day too!
Your plant collection is amazing!! This is the look I’ve been going for! Love it!
Oh cool someone did a photo shoot at my favourite Vancouver loft! You can find more pics and info about the owner, Glyn Lewis, on Insta @loft_garden_oasis
I have ceilings that are as high as yours, but have always wondered how I would water my plants if they were up that high?
How do you do it? And what kind of plants do you choose when knowing you can’t water them weekly?
Hi I love this whole apartment. I am new at decorating and I really really want to find those box shelves. Where did you get those?? I am trying to track some down, but they all look too small.
Thank you!
Where is your sofa from? I’ve been looking for one similar to that for ages! Thanks <3
I love all the plants. Very nice smile surrounded by beautiful plants and art, aside from the giant painting of a nigger on your wall.