If you’re looking for a sign to buy a plant, here it is. Now that the weather’s getting colder and the sun is setting earlier, it’s the perfect time to start that indoor garden. You might be lamenting at the fact that I’m telling you to add yet another responsibility to your never-ending to-do list, but hear me out. Here are four reasons you should become a Plant Mom (or Dad).
1. sELf-cArE
No, but seriously. Having a living, breathing entity that you’re responsible for can do wonders for your mental health. On days when you feel like you can’t take care of yourself, it might help to know you have little living things around your room that depend on you. Sometimes, helping something else can help you as well. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing them grow can give you a sense of accomplishment. It’s the little things!
2. They’re a breath of fresh air
We all took science in high school, so I’m sure I don’t need to preach about the wonders of photosynthesis. But it is true- plants produce oxygen, which provides fresh air. If you live in a smaller environment (or keep your door closed a lot), plants are a great way to get some circulation going. They can rid you of a stuffy environment, and since we spend a lot of time indoors nowadays, this can be a lifesaver.
3. It’s easier than getting a pet (or a kid).
Now, for anyone who’s killed a plant before, you’re probably a bit skeptical about this one. It’s true, some plants do require quite a bit of maintenance. But there are a lot of resilient ‘beginner’ plants you couldn’t kill even if you tried. Check out Pinterest for inspiration on plants to grow in low-lighting, cold weather or indoors. Try some aloe vera, which rarely needs to be watered and can be used for skincare!
4. The ~Aesthetic~
I don’t know about you, but I LIVE for the aesthetic. If your room is looking a bit drab, or you find yourself in a rut, try incorporating some greenery into the scene. Not only will it benefit you in all the ways mentioned above, but you’ll also have a nice change of scenery that can help boost your mood. Plus, they can spruce up your Instagram pics.
You’re probably thinking that I’m some garden-fanatic who’s been doing this since I was a kid. Well, you’d be wrong. I was actually one of those people who managed to wreck any greenery I brought to my house. What prompted this change, you may ask? I wish I could say I had some ‘ah-ha’ moment, but what really happened was a sale at Indigo. I bought some lavender seeds after hearing about their calming abilities and it grew (no pun intended) from there. So if you think you need to make major lifestyle changes to become a plant mom, fear not! Start small, and you’d be surprised at where it takes you.