Here’s my confession: I’m not the greatest at caring for plants. The term “green thumb” will likely never be associated with my name. I can easily forget to water my houseplants for weeks on end, and I’ve even needed to see a doctor for splinters from yanking off the dried leaves of my neglected greenery. To say I’ve let my orchids perish would be an understatement—though I did genuinely try to nurture those blooms.
However, during these extensive days of lockdown, when my life has been reduced to the confines of my house, my two kids, and a dog, my houseplants are suddenly receiving the attention they deserve. Over the past couple of months, I’ve rearranged my plants to find better sunlight, trimmed off the brown tips, and watered them almost like a ritual.
Tending to my houseplants, which admittedly should have been on my to-do list long before now, has organically become part of my daily routine. It’s not that I lack things to do while stuck at home. Between homeschooling, working remotely, and managing the laundry heap, my waking hours are filled. But perhaps amid this slowdown, there’s something soothing about engaging with a simple task.
And I’m not alone in this newfound appreciation for plants. Across the nation, people are embracing houseplants for various reasons—whether it’s for companionship, the meditative quality of nurturing something non-verbal, or the joy of witnessing something thrive visibly.
In addition to the emotional benefits, there are tangible advantages to incorporating plants into your home. Research indicates that houseplants can purify the air, enhance focus and productivity, alleviate stress, and elevate your mood.
Low Maintenance Plants
- Spider Plant: I can vouch for this plant’s durability; it’s the only one I’ve managed to keep alive for a decade, even through periods of neglect. It produces “babies” that can be re-potted, and mine originates from my mother-in-law’s spider plant, which in turn came from the one she began caring for after she married.
- Christmas Cactus: Part of the cactus family, this plant requires little attention. I often forget about it until the holiday season, when it rewards me with vibrant pink blooms amid the dreariness outside.
- Ponytail Palm: This plant occupies my dining area and continues to flourish with minimal care from me. It adds a lively splash of green without demanding much effort.
- Rubber Plant: To be honest, I did manage to kill this resilient plant after eight years. It had bright green leaves and certainly deserved better than what I provided.
If you’re looking for more options, Good Housekeeping has compiled a list of 30 nearly indestructible houseplants.
Getting Started with Your Plant Journey
While many physical stores are still closed, and the thought of browsing for plants can be overwhelming, the online plant shopping scene has exploded. Retailers like Rooted, The Sill, and Bloomscape are just a few that have made it easier to find the perfect houseplant for your home. Additionally, you can explore Etsy to support local businesses and discover shops like Plantybish and PlantBoutique shipping plants nationwide.
Though adding another task to your pandemic to-do list might seem daunting, whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a hopeful novice, integrating plants into your home could be just the thing you need. They can brighten your space and serve as a reminder that sometimes, all you require to thrive is a little light.
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In summary, the trend of caring for houseplants during the pandemic has provided many with a sense of purpose and tranquility. With numerous options available that require minimal upkeep, now might be the perfect time to dive into the world of plants and discover the joy they can bring to your living space.