My real journey with houseplants began a little over three years ago. Growing up, I always loved plants and thought they were fascinating. In college, I’d pick up one or two to brighten my apartment, but I didn’t get serious about houseplants until my boyfriend and I moved in together. He shared my interest, and suddenly, we were both obsessed. Now, our home feels like a mini jungle!
The start of our houseplant journey!
It started with a few small houseplants I received as move-in gifts, and from there, the collection grew fast—10 plants, then 20, then 30. At some point, my boyfriend said, “Alright, we can’t fit any more.” But, of course, that wasn’t the end. We hit 40, and now we’re proudly over 50 houseplants strong. We’re at a bit of a standstill now since some of the plants have grown quite large, and space is tight.
9 months after moving in!
When friends visit for the first time, they almost always ask, “WOW, what’s your secret to keeping so many plants alive?” I usually laugh and say I don’t really have any secrets. But, after a few years of caring for, reviving, and (sadly) losing a few plants, I’ve picked up some valuable tips to keep plants thriving. Everyone has their own style, but I believe if you focus on these five basics, you’ll see success in your houseplant journey:
The Top 5 Tips To Plant Care
- Light – This is probably the most crucial factor. Make sure each plant is getting the type of light it needs.
- Water – Underwatering is usually better than overwatering, as too much water can be a fast route to root rot.
- Clean – Dust, dirt, and oils on the leaves can block photosynthesis. Keep leaves clean so they can absorb all the light they need.
- Fertilize – Your plants need nutrients to grow strong. Stick to natural fertilizers if possible, and avoid harsh chemicals.
- Prune – Don’t be afraid to prune! If leaves start yellowing, it’s time to remove them. For brown spots, just cut off the damaged section.
Having over 50 plants in our home has completely transformed our space. Each plant brings a unique touch— some are vibrant and lush, others delicate and slow-growing. Together, they create a space that feels alive. Caring for my babies has become one of my favorite things to do, I find it grounding to spend a few moments each day watering, pruning, or simply admiring their growth. It’s hard to capture all my plants in a single photo since they’re spread throughout the house, but our living room window gives you a good idea of the plant-filled vibe in the rest of our home!
3 years after moving in!
Expanding Your Houseplant Collection:
If you’re considering starting or expanding your own houseplant collection, my advice is to dive in! Not every plant will thrive right away, and you may lose a few along the way, but each one teaches you something new. It’s so special to watch a plant flourish and knowing you played a part in its growth. Welcome the journey, and before you know it, you may have your very own indoor oasis too!