Let's talk about houseplants. Bear with
me. While there will always be plant lovers, most of us associate the common houseplant with our grandmothers. For
whatever reason, be it fear, apathy, commitment issues, or even downright
laziness, houseplants are becoming an endangered species these days.
Until recently none of my 20 something
friends had a single plant in their possession. Thanks to
Pinterest, and the rise of the adorable succulent, that's starting to
change. Succulents are popping up everywhere, even in the homes of Gen X'ers like myself. I'm hoping what started as a fad turns into something
more lasting...the rediscovery of the houseplant!
So why should you take the risk and
bring another dependent into your life? Because when you bring a
plant or two into your home you are starting a symbiotic relationship
that asks very little of you and gives a lot in return.
According to the
NASA Clean Air Study Many common houseplants, such as the Peace
Lily, purify the air in your home by removing chemicals such as
formaldehyde and raising oxygen levels. This in turn can help boost
your mood, cause you to sleep better, and be less likely to get
headaches. Click here
for an easy to read list of proven air cleaners.
But, you're busy and you're not really used to plants. You're still perfect strangers. Have no fear. Plants are less of a commitment then a goldfish. If your plant dies you don't have to go through any gruesome toilet flushing episodes or wonder how much it suffered in its last hours. You can simply throw it in the trash and carry on with your life proud of yourself that you tried. When you're ready you can try again. Most plants are cheap. Even if your little fern or ivy lasts only a month it's far longer than a vase of flowers, and for half the price.
Once you can successfully keep that little pothos alive , you can venture into the wide world of edibles. Herbs! Imagine all of the sensational meals you can cook up with your own kichen herb garden for your culinary curiousity. And for those of you who are interested in the sustainable living movement, a small house plant is a great first step in learning how to garden and homestead.
A quick google seach or a skim through Pinterest can help you find your perfect starter plant. If that fails, just ask your grandmother :)
~Rebekah
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