Plant parenthood has grown exponentially in recent times. Most people I know have bought plants whether it is one succulent or a whole bedroom jungle. I am proud to say that I have become the guardian of more than 20 plants! I have found that there are some interesting benefits to keeping my green friends alive; for them as well as for me and my environment. Here are some ways that tending to my plants have benefitted me as well as some advice that goes for both plants and people.

A few moments of Zen

You do not need to embark on a long journey of self-discovery to find some moments of peace and serenity. I have found that spending a few minutes a day making sure that my plant companions are well watered and in good condition has brought me some zen. Taking part in something ‘natural’ like tending to them, has given me some much-needed offline time, and allowed me to remain present in the moment. I have found that caring for my plants helps me focus.

Actions have power

At times, it can feel like there are a lot of things in our lives that are not within our control. For instance, you might find that your favourite bench in the Noorderplantsoen has been taken by someone else, and although that might be disappointing, you don’t have control over that.

The beauty of taking care of plants is that you see the power of your actions with something you have some control over. Your plants are relying on you to help them grow and flourish. There is nothing more exciting than watching one of your plants flower or grow a new leaf. It is a proud moment for any plant parent, but more so, it shows your impact on another life – and that’s pretty cool.

Plants are really pretty!

Aside from the mental health benefits of taking care of plants, they also add life to your room. They are quite aesthetically pleasing. Seeing as we tend to spend  a lot of time in our houses during this time, making your home cosy and pretty definitely helps lift the overall mood and adds some design quality to your space.

Companionship… they are great listeners (not great talkers, unfortunately)

This point might expose some of my hidden craziness, but I love talking to my plants! I find that saying things out loud helps me process information and come up with some news ideas. If my plants could speak, they’d be able to give you amazing legal advice, while also flawlessly performing Africa by Toto.  

Apply plant care to yourself too!

Just like our green friends, we need some careful attention too. These actions have positive impacts on both plants and people:

Stay hydrated

- Staying hydrated is just as important for you as it is for plants. I’m not a biologist, but I know water is good for you.

Cut off the dead weight

- Maybe it is time to kickstart a fitness regime? I set the new year’s resolution to lose 5kgs, and I am proud to announce that I only have 8kgs to go!

-Cutting the dead weight can also refer to cutting out some objects or thoughts in your life that are weighing you down.

Get some fresh air

- With spring in full swing and summer around the corner, go and take a walk around our beautiful city and admire the flowers and greenery.

Tidy your surroundings

- Sometimes tidying your environment is a perfect way to help bring some mental calm and allow yourself to grow.

I could probably write my bachelor’s thesis on why becoming a plant parent is a good idea, although I don’t think my professors would be too impressed with me relating plant care to Law. Instead I will urge you strongly to go out and get a plant! Try it out for yourself and if you see me quietly taking some plant cuttings in the Noorderplantsoen, I’ll deny everything.