Growing Joy with Plants - Wellness Rooted in Nature, Houseplants, Gardening and Plant Care

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Elevate Your Interior Decor with Plants: A Plant Design Crash Course

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if the fewer the plants, the bigger the impact? Right now my house is a construction zone, and my plants are on their own. I have an eight-week-old baby, a '70s house we gutted mid-pregnancy, and a carpeted garage. So yes, a few plants have died. But something else is happening too! My taste is changing. I'm letting go of a lot of little plants, and I want one big beautiful plant for my bathroom instead. In fact, my friend Samantha Hermann of @houseplusplant and I are both in a transitional season of life. She’s moving into a house she designed around her plants... and cutting her collection from 300 to about 100. Here's what she taught me. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:42] Grab a mini course for whatever your plants need right now with the Growing Joy Academy!
[02:57] Welcome back, Samantha of @houseplusplant
[04:05] How much did her plants influence her home design aesthetic?
[06:07] Instagram vs. reality: where do plant people actually keep their plants?
[07:36] Cutting her collection from 300 plants down to 100 (intentional vs. collector)
[10:11] Why she's only keeping big statement plants now
[12:03] The guilt of letting a plant go
[15:23] Manukora Honey
[19:22] What is she most excited about in the new house?
[22:20] Renovating a 1970s house while I’m pregnant!
[24:33] Collecting pieces with a story instead of getting them off Amazon
[25:29] What are some plant styling rules for a calm home?
[28:21] Treating a statement plant as art!
[30:19] What makes a plant grouping actually work?
[32:33] Does the rule of threes work for plants?
[33:54] Why there's always a hoya in her groupings
[36:49] Blooming houseplants that don't get enough credit!
[37:49] The custom window shelves she's sad to take down
[40:00] How to build grow lights into your house (outlets, dimmers, timers, and hiding cords)
[42:16] Why spreading plants throughout your home makes you enjoy them more
[45:20] What makes her book House + Plant different and QR codes to her DIYs
[47:28] Pre-orders, the October 6th release, and where to find Samantha!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Academy
House Plus Plant Equals Home by Samantha Hermann
Beautiful Views Shelves
Soltech Highland™ LED Track Light System (Use Bloom15 for 15% off)
SANSI LED Grow Lights Collection for Indoor Plants
Episode 235: How to Care for a Lot of Plants (AKA Have a Large Plant Collection) with Samantha of @houseplusplant

For Samantha's amazing tips on how to do more with fewer plants,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
TikTok
Facebook

Follow Samantha:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the blooms that actually hold up on your wedding day!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Wedding Flowers 101: How to Choose Blooms That Last: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

When I got engaged, I figured choosing wedding flowers would be the easy part. I'm a plant person, right? Wrong. Wedding florals are an entire world of their own, and I was lucky to have a florist who walked me through all of it and built the floral landscape of my dreams.

That florist is Corina of The Botaniste, and in this Best of Growing Joy episode, she's sharing the wedding flower crash course I wish I'd had from day one.

We get into how to choose blooms that actually hold up and don't wilt (spoiler: several of my first picks were a hard no), why conditioning matters more than expensive stems, how to work with seasonal availability instead of fighting it, and how to lean on greenery to stretch your budget. Corina also covers the trends she's seeing, how to talk to a florist even if you don't know a single flower name, and how to repurpose arrangements so they outlast the ceremony.

And if a wedding isn't in your future, don't skip this one because it all applies to backyard bouquets and dinner party tables too!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:22] Introducing Corina
[04:16] What to expect of the last episode of My Botanically Inspired Wedding Series
[09:29] Corina shares her experiences planning wedding florals with couples
[10:33] Why Pinterest is every bride’s best friend AND worst enemy
[11:52] How Corina became a plant lady and how she started The Botaniste
[17:29] Corina’s biggest influences in floral styling
[18:18] What are current and upcoming trends for wedding flowers?
[19:46] What elements are there in a tablescape?
[22:28] Is there a difference between wedding flowers and event flowers?
[26:14] Maria shares her decision-making process with her wedding florals
[28:02] How flowers elevate any event
[29:26] How to preserve your wedding flowers
[31:00] What are the best and the worst flowers to have at your wedding?
[34:01] Which flower is an alternative to peonies?
[35:54] New rose varieties to try in your wedding flowers
[39:27] How to condition cut flowers
[41:23] How to keep cut hydrangeas from wilting
[42:58] Where to get the best organic indoor and outdoor gardening products
[44:12] Planning to grow from seeds this coming garden season?
[48:15] How to work with florists and where to start with your wedding flower planning
[52:33] Building a trusting relationship with your wedding florist
[55:08] Corina’s advice for couples planning to DIY their wedding
[58:51] Maria’s garland and greenery vision
[01:00:40] How to style a wedding with greenery
[01:03:38] Incorporating bud vases in your wedding
[01:07:55] Adding statement greenery to your wedding venue and reception
[01:12:49] What you should know about greenery
[01:14:38] Corina’s ultimate tip for wedding planners and contractors
[01:15:15] Corina’s current favorite flowers and combinations
[01:17:00] What Maria loved about blushing bride protea
[01:18:08] Where you can hire Corina as your florist
[01:20:25] Maria’s Wedding Series reflections

Mentioned in our conversation:

Check out Corina's video on how to arrange a big bridal bouquet!
Lush Magnolia Flower Preservation artist
DIY Wedding Copper Arbor blog
BAGR Episode: 3 Plant Inspired DIY Wedding Ideas that Live on After the Big Day
BAGR Episode: 26 Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Your Wedding
BAGR Blog: 26 Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Your Wedding

What flower would you love to have in your wedding bouquet?

Follow Corina:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Tell Time with Your Garden (And Not a Watch)

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Is it possible to tell time with your garden? Apparently, birds and plants can tell us what time of day it is! When we recorded this episode, I was in my third trimester, so sometimes I would be up at 2 AM whether I liked it or not. Which was how I found out that the birds in my Florida backyard start up around 4! For a while, I'd check my phone to see how close we were to sunrise. Now I learned to listen. That's the idea behind The Fullness of Time by Cathy Haynes. It's a book I read about how to tell time without a clock, instead using birdsong, blooms, shadows, and stars. It touched the gardener in my soul, and I knew I needed to have Cathy on the podcast to talk about all of the different ways our ancestors kept time in their gardens and in nature. Come learn with me!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:07] Meet Cathy Haynes!
[03:12] What is The Fullness of Time book about?
[04:05] The evening primrose in her London backyard that started all of this!
[05:55] How does gardening change your sense of time?
[07:17] How did ordinary people tell time before clocks?
[09:26] Cock crow, midnight spirits, and what each part of the day means!
[11:42] Reading a clock vs. actually sensing time
[12:20] What is the ornithological clock (how to tell time through birds)?
[15:24] Espoma Organic
[17:00] Learning to pick out the individual singers in the dawn chorus
[17:36] Merlin app to learn birdsong
[18:38] What third-trimester insomnia taught me about the 4 AM birds
[21:53] What is this Linnaeus’s flower clock?
[23:55] Did the Bern Botanical Garden get a living flower clock to work?
[26:30] Daisies, chicory, and the timekeeping plants hiding in pavement cracks
[28:40] Which time-telling plants can you add to your own garden?
[30:59] Why mature sunflowers stop following the sun and just face east
[33:26] How did our ancestors use shadows to tell time?
[35:21] Ancient scratch sundials on churches and Icelandic hills!
[37:37] Light pollution and how to adapt to the sun in a city
[39:32] Can you tell the time by the stars?
[41:42] What are some simple ways to get started with your time garden?
[44:52] Where to find Cathy and The Fullness of Time!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Interested in tracking time with your local birds and flowers,

Follow Cathy:

Website
Instagram

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Propagate Pothos and Other Vining Indoor Plants

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

We're going back to basics today on how to propagate pothos, plant friends! It's one of the simplest things you can do as a plant parent. And pothos is probably the easiest plant to propagate, which is exactly why it's where you should start. I just want you to do it right the first time because one success is what turns this into a lifelong habit. So I brought propagation expert Lindsay Sisti back on the podcast to walk through pothos propagation from the very beginning. Join us as we talk beginner-friendly propagation tips, how to root pothos cuttings in water, light and watering, and why making that first cut actually helps your plant grow. Let's prop!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:51] Meet Lindsay Sisti and her challenge for you!
[04:24] Why pothos is the best plant to learn propagation on
[06:00] Why your pothos cutting speeds up your other props
[07:02] Plant anatomy 101: What do you need to know before you cut?
[09:11] Why you should leave the leaves on your cuttings
[10:19] Internodes vs. nodes (aka plant knuckles)
[13:31] Node cuttings vs. tip cuttings, and what "sterilized shears" really means
[15:30] Manukora Honey
[17:16] Espoma Organic
[19:54] What is a petiole and why will a single pothos leaf never root?
[21:22] Leaf removal and water setup!
[23:12] Why cutting back a balding pothos makes it bushier (apical dominance explained)
[26:57] Do pothos cuttings need to callus first?
[27:55] What rooting hormone actually does, and the tradeoff of changing your water
[30:36] The different methods of propagating different types of vining plants like pothos
[31:44] Sphagnum, fluval stratum, and perlite (why water still wins for pothos)
[35:02] Can you root bare nodes with no leaves? Plus prop box basics
[37:40] Does cinnamon work as a rooting hormone?
[38:56] Why the thrift store is the best place to find propagation vessels
[40:15] Root length sweet spot!
[41:25] Potting up: indoor mix, extra perlite, and starting small
[47:03] Why light matters while rooting
[48:19] Propagation walls and test tube shelves
[51:30] Thrifted candelabras, champagne racks, and DIY propagation stations
[53:27] Where to find Lindsay, her book, and all of her propagation resources!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy 129: How to Root Bare Nodes or "Wet Sticks"
Growing Joy 350: Propagation Tips For Plant Parents That Actually Work: Prop Boxes, Ikea Grow Cabinets and How to Avoid Mold Damage
Growing Joy 309: How to Propagate an Alocasia Corm
Growing Joy 289: How to Propagate Plants in Fluval Stratum
The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation by Lindsay Sisti
Clonex Rooting Gel

For Lindsay's different propagation methods,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
TikTok

Follow Lindsay:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for a gentler way to think about losing your heirloom plants!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Killing Houseplants Doesn’t Make You a Bad Plant Parent: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 6 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

When it comes to killing plants, it's not a matter of if... it's a matter of when.

And killing a plant doesn't mean you're bad at plants. It just means you're a plant parent. But so many of us carry real shame around plant death. One loss, and we decide we're a plant killer and quit for good.

In this Best of Growing Joy series episode, I'm bringing back my conversation with Cassidy from Succulents and Sunshine about the guilt that comes with plant death, especially with succulents. They get sold as easy care plants. They're not.

We get into why even plant experts lose plants, how to know when to treat versus when to toss, and why your plant number shifts with the seasons of your life.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Does being a plant parent mean you’re also a plant killer?
[05:24] Who is Cassidy and how she became the plant parent she is today
[06:00] What is Succulents and Sunshine about?
[10:55] Cassidy's take on how plant parents handle plant death
[12:45] Trying to keep an echeveria succulent alive
[14:36] When to toss vs. treat your plants [it's simple!]
[16:24] The importance of a plant care routine
[18:34] Why it’s important to know your plant number
[19:27] Emotional attachment to our plants [feat. Maria's lime tree story]
[22:20] Maria's experience with generational plant gifts
[25:45] What Cassidy learned from every plant failure
[25:52] Tip #1 Be more attentive to your plants
[26:18] Tip #2 Different plants require different care
[27:41] Tip #3 Don't be too hard on yourself; plants die in the wild too
[28:43] Where to get plant seeds that are guaranteed to last longer
[30:40] Get quality grow lights that will last and look stunning next to your plants
[32:31] Why most of the plants we have aren’t designed to live in our homes.
[34:39] Why Haworthia is most suitable as your indoor succulent
[36:37] Should you try to grow the same plant again or let it go completely?
[41:20] What are some ways to reduce your plant collection?
[44:13] Learning to let go of dying plants
[48:32] The mental cost of holding onto something that no longer serves you
[51:23] What are the two options when you kill a plant?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Have you ever killed a plant that someone special gave you?

Follow Cassidy:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Garden Inspired Cocktails and Mocktails for Joyful Living

Tue, 4 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000

We often talk about garden-to-table, but what about garden-to-glass? AKA how to grow plants for garden inspired cocktails, and all the ways to turn a harvest into something delicious, regardless if you drink alcohol or not. I spent a full year not drinking, first through fertility treatments and then through pregnancy. And I learned that the mocktail section of most menus is a trap. Everything is so sweet that you finish it in about 90 seconds. And then I met Belinda and Venise at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show. They're sisters, they're plant ladies, and they run a garden-to-glass syrup company called Simple Goodness Sisters. They also wrote the book called Drink Your Garden. In this episode, they share different ways you can enjoy your garden harvest in easy yet delicious cocktail and mocktail recipes. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:46] Meet Belinda and Venise of Simple Goodness Sisters!
[03:26] How did their syrup business begin?
[06:29] Venise's homesteading story
[10:49] What the farm grows for the business vs. for their families
[13:52] What counts as a cocktail garden?
[15:29] Home Greenhouse Revival by Leslie Halleck
[17:07] How to use edible flowers
[18:18] Which edible flowers are easiest to grow?
[21:33] What actually belongs in a cocktail garden
[22:41] Why purple sage and mojito mint taste better in drinks
[23:49] Rows vs. interplanting, reusable mulch
[27:05] Building a bar cart from your garden
[29:32] Why they wrote the book they couldn't find
[30:34] What is a syrup and how do you make one?
[32:06] Their favorite syrups
[36:09] What is a shrub and how do you drink it?
[38:57] Beet shrub showstopper
[40:05] How to make a blue mocktail for a baby shower
[40:48] Tinctures vs. bitters
[42:42] How an infused spirit becomes a liqueur
[44:59] Buzz button gin, cherry bourbon, and Midnight at the movies
[49:03] Travel syrups hack!
[52:06] Cordials, and balancing sweet, sour, bitter, and spirit
[53:00] What to gift a gin-obsessed dad, and why you might just dislike tonic
[55:00] How to make your own compound gin at home
[56:38] Garnishing like a container garden (thriller, filler, spiller, and powdered rims)
[58:30] Braided chives, pickled garnishes, and drinks you can snack on
[1:00:10] Where to find Belinda, Venise, the book, and the Farm Club subscription box!
[1:02:47] The herbal lemonade and blue spritz I served at my baby shower

Mentioned in our conversation:

Join the Cocktail Farm Club - Simple Goodness Sisters
Drink Your Garden: Recipes, Stories and Tips from the Simple Goodness Cocktail Farm by Belinda Kelly and Venise Cunningham
USDA Organic Blue Spirulina Powder
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar | Bragg
Herb Garden Syrup (Lemon Herb)

For Belinda and Venise's scrumptious cocktail recipes,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Recipes

Follow Simple Goodness Sisters:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: Home Greenhouse Revival by Leslie F. Halleck

Home Greenhouse Revival is available for pre-order now at quarto.com and launches in September. Pre-order your copy wherever books are sold or through your local bookstore.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to start growing your own statement rubber plant!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Rubber Plants Are The Most Underrated Houseplants: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for a large, tree-like plant, a pop of color, or a cool, structural statement piece for your home, might I suggest the rubber plant? Ficus elastica is one of the most underrated houseplants out there, and today we're giving it the hype it deserves!

In this Best of Growing Joy series, I pulled my conversation with Raffaele of Ohio Tropics, a fellow rubber plant lover, where we talk about everything you need to know about rubber plant care: how to help your rubber plant truly grow, how to stop it from dropping its leaves, and how to keep those glossy leaves from crisping up.

Because whether it's a simple green rubber tree or a stunning variegated variety like my beloved Ficus Belize on my green wall, those huge, glossy leaves make such a statement in your home. Listen in to learn simple rubber plant care tips, plus the most common mistakes plant parents make (and exactly how to avoid them), so you can grow your very own iconic indoor tree.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:43] Maria’s plant and personal updates
[02:12] Introducing Raffaele from Ohio Tropics
[03:14] Your invitation to a free 10-day virtual garden festival!
[03:58] What to expect from this rubber plant episode
[06:40] How Raffael became the plant parent he is today
[10:06] What is a rubber plant?
[11:26] Do rubber trees produce latex?
[12:53] Where can you find rubber plants in nature?
[14:33] What are the different types and varieties of rubber plants?
[18:54] How to water rubber plants
[21:27] Raffaele’s watering tip using a turkey baster
[23:21] How much sunlight does a rubber plant need?
[27:35] Are rubber plants low-light plants?
[28:35] What kind of soil mix is good for rubber plants?
[30:52] Where to get pre-grown plants and seeds for your spring garden
[32:09] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products
[34:49] How to fertilize rubber plants
[37:11] Rubber Plant FAQ #1: Why is my rubber plant not growing?
[39:03] Rubber Plant FAQ #2: How do I get my rubber plant to branch and be bushier instead of taller?
[39:51] What is the air layering propagation method?
[44:15] Rubber Plant FAQ #3: Why are my new leaves smaller than the older ones?
[45:32] Rubber Plant FAQ #4: Why are my rubber plant leaves dropping?
[48:20] Why overwatering can cause issues to your plant (in ways you might not expect)
[49:12] Rubber Plant FAQ #5: My plant looks healthy, but the branches are all over the place; why is this happening?
[50:26] Rubber Plant FAQ #6: What are the tiny white spots on my rubber plant?
[51:26] Rubber Plant FAQ#7: Why are the edges of my variegated rubber plant browning?
[54:09] Rubber Plant FAQ #8: My rubber plant has aerial roots, but do they grow better in slightly cooler conditions?
[55:18] Raffaele’s recommendations of the best rubber plant varieties for beginners
[57:35] What Raffaele’s book Houseplant Warrior is about!
[59:41] Where to connect with Raffaele
[01:01:52] Upgrade your plant education with these two events!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Houseplant Warrior: 7 Keys to Unlocking the Mysteries of Houseplant Care, book by Raffaele Di Lallo
The Great Grow Along Virtual Garden Festival

Which rubber plant variety are you most excited to try?

Follow Raffaele:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Propagation Tips For Plant Parents That Actually Work: Prop Boxes, Ikea Grow Cabinets and How to Avoid Mold Damage

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Propagation is your best friend as a plant parent. It's a free way to make more of the plants you already have, and watching new roots grow is so much fun! But there's more to it than sticking a pothos in a glass of water, not to mention that if you get the humidity wrong, you’ll get mold. So I invited over my go-to propagation nerd, Lindsay Sisti, to guide us through the different ways you can propagate successfully. She’s a propagation expert, plant breeder, and author of The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation. She’s been in the podcast before, and we've both survived mold cleanup in our own homes. Listen in!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:22] Welcome back, Lindsay, my propagation nerd and friend of the pod!
[04:28] What tropical houseplants are found in the rainforest?
[06:00] Why your heating/AC sucks the humidity out of your home
[10:00] Why growing houseplants indoors in Florida is hard!
[10:56] When does humidity become a big aspect of plant keeping? (common plants vs. the divas)
[14:51] Experience the richness of single-origin honey with 3x more antioxidants with Manukora!
[16:36] Why filling your house with humidifiers isn't realistic
[17:45] Lindsay's black mold nightmare in her 100-year-old home!
[21:20] How humidity travels through your HVAC and grows mold where you'd never expect
[23:29] Humidity hacks that fail (sorry!)
[25:09] Why misting is mostly pointless and when it causes problems
[28:31] IKEA grow cabinets 101: the MILSBO, Rust-Oleum, and building your glass box
[33:40] Choosing grow lights: Barrina, Monios, and T8 vs. T5
[35:53] Why you need fans and airflow (transpiration and guttation explained)
[40:18] What prop boxes are and why they root plants better than a glass of water
[43:21] Building a prop box (containers, sphagnum moss, and the "wrung-out sponge" rule)
[46:30] Lindsay's layered setup!
[49:44] Do you really need to "burp" your prop box?
[52:31] How to rebuild Raffi the Rhaphidophora from node cuttings
[58:16] Should you let cuttings callus first? Variegated vs. non-variegated
[1:01:16] Mold vs. algae, and the diluted hydrogen peroxide fix
[1:03:18] Final steps: lid on, into the window, and when to transplant
[1:06:56] Can you crowd the nodes?
[1:08:11] Why are prop boxes low stakes?
[1:09:43] Where to find Lindsay and her propagation book!
[1:11:21] Update: how Raffi's prop box actually turned out

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation by Lindsay Sisti
IKEA MILSBO
Barrina Grow Light
Monios-L Grow Lights
LECHUZA-PON

For Lindsay's different propagation methods,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
TikTok

Follow Lindsay:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

ZenAI

Visit zen.ai to start your first vibecast for free.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out Janice's guide in the full show notes and blog!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Grow Your Own Luffa: Luffa Gardening Tips for Plant Lovers

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever thought about growing your own luffa? Someone sent me a packet of luffa seeds about four years ago. I think I won them in a giveaway, and they just... sat there. I never planted it because something about luffa felt kinda different. It's not your classic garden edible, and I couldn't picture how it worked. So I invited Janice Cox over to talk about growing luffa! Janice is a garden and natural beauty expert, and she's written a whole workbook on this plant. Now I can't stop thinking about growing luffa, harvesting it, and figuring out what to make with it. Turns out it's way simpler than I built it up to be in my head. Learn with me!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:47] Meet Janice Cox, the luffa queen!
[02:34] What is luffa, and why does it have so many surprising uses?
[04:10] How Janice backed into gardening through natural beauty writing
[05:57] Why clean beauty pushed her toward aloe vera and label-reading in the US
[10:12] How luffa went from ancient Egypt to WWII oil filters
[12:18] Turning a luffa harvest into soap, crafts, and pet toys
[15:29] Feed your midsummer garden with Espoma Organic!
[17:47] What does luffa need to grow? (full sun, pollinators, and a trellis)
[19:54] Male vs. female flowers and hand-pollinating your luffa
[22:06] What the luffa growth stages look like and how to know when to harvest
[25:24] Water and light requirements for luffa
[26:44] How do you process your luffa? (peeling, saving seeds, and cleaning for gifts)
[29:09] Direct sowing vs. starting luffa seeds indoors
[30:58] How to slice, flatten, and sew with dried luffa
[33:59] What are the different luffa varieties?
[35:52] What are the most common mistakes first-time luffa growers make?
[38:30] Why luffa makes a great gift and a full-circle, sustainable plant
[40:15] Luffa seed tips: nicking, soaking, and testing for viability
[42:06] Where to find Janice, her books, and her guides

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy 310: Digital Detox: What 3 Days in Nature Taught Me (and How You Can Recreate It at Home)
Growing Joy 319: How to Preserve Food From Your Garden with Staci and Jeremy Hill
Janice Cox’s books:

For foolproof luffa growing tips,

Follow Janice:

Website
Instagram
Blog
Books

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

ZenAI

Visit zen.ai to start your first vibecast for free.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for all my favorite philodendron varieties!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Philodendron Care 101: Light, Water, And Growth Tips: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Philodendron might just be the most underrated genus in the houseplant world, and plant friends, it's completely beginner-friendly! This isn't a plant you bring home from the garden center only to watch it shrivel, brown, and die within a week. It gives you trailing vines, climbing drama, bold pops of color, and incredible leaf shapes. It's one of my all-time favorites, and it's the star of today's episode of our Best of Growing Joy series.

We're breaking down everything you need to know about philodendron care, aka this iconic houseplant genus that's been beloved for decades and never goes out of style. Today's episode covers philodendron light requirements, philodendron watering tips, and the best philodendron varieties to add to your indoor plant collection.

You'll also learn how philodendron grow in the wild and discover which variety might just become your next plant obsession.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:50] Philodendron high-level overview
[09:38] Care #1: Light
[13:43] Care #2: Water
[15:38] Care #3: Soil
[16:05] Care #4: Humidity
[17:08] Care #5: Fertilizer
[17:39] Troubleshooting philodendron issues
[19:10] Thank you Proven Winners leafjoy™ for sponsoring this episode!
[21:01] Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
[22:21] Philodendron ‘Brasil'
[22:37] Philodendron ‘Lemon Lime' (as seen on my podcast art!)
[24:13] Prismacolor™ Brandtianum
[25:16] Philodendron atabapoense
[26:05] Philodendron ‘Silver Sword' (Philodendron hastatum)
[27:11] Prismacolor™ Philodendron Fozzie™
[28:38] Philodendron ‘White Wizard' (Philodendron erubescens)
[30:18] ‘Prince of Orange' Philodendron
[32:08] Prismacolor™ Sun Red Philodendron
[32:33] Philodendron ‘Pink Princess'

Mentioned in our conversation:

What's your go-to philodendron, and how long have you had it?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Growing Fruit Trees for Plant Parenthood and Joyful Living

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if your backyard could feed you for decades with way less work than a tomato patch? You can achieve this with fruit trees! I met arborist Allen Taylor at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show earlier this year. He's the founder of Conservation Tree Care, and he shares how to grow fruit trees in your own backyard with confidence and patience. I'm a homeowner now, and I am so excited to finally have fruit trees of my own!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:52] Meet Allen Taylor, founder of Conservation Treecare!
[02:17] What is forestry, and how did Allen get into it via a college course?
[03:22] How arboriculture differs from forestry (individual trees vs. whole ecosystems)
[04:45] The Overstory and tree climbers who work up in the canopy
[09:37] How his passion for large trees relates to small fruit trees
[10:51] Seattle's century-old orchard trees!
[12:32] What are the two starting points for fruit trees? (assessing a bare site vs. inheriting mature trees already there)
[14:07] Why you also have to think about harvest volume you can handle
[15:02] Check out The Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by the American Horticultural Society!
[16:17] Set your fruit trees up right from planting with Espoma Organic!
[18:21] Why it's okay to treat a fruit tree as a low-maintenance shade tree (that happens to fruit)
[19:38] What makes something an "orchard" vs. just having a tree?
[22:30] Why fruit exists (spreading seeds) and how domestication changed fruit itself
[24:10] Fruit tree timeline! What age of wood trees fruit on?
[26:55] Which fruit trees are most popular by region, and why local zone/climate matters so much?
[29:19] Why local extension services and nurseries beat big box stores for picking trees
[31:41] What does the yearly care for fruit trees look like (pruning, planting, harvest windows)?
[34:17] Planting and transplant shock!
[35:52] Fruit trees planting basics: hole size, soil, mulch, watering to establishment
[39:03] Sun and site selection (full sun, flat ground, and thinking about ladder access)
[42:38] Why you should prune fruit trees compared to other edibles
[43:58] Why does dormant pruning work with the tree's stress response?
[46:14] Should you remove blossoms in year one, or just leave the tree alone and wait?
[47:33] Pruning vs. training explained
[48:59] Pruning intensity tips
[52:10] What are the top beginner mistakes you commit with trees?
[57:10] The 3 types of pruning cuts (removal, reduction, heading) and how the tree responds to each
[59:06] Why fruit trees are a great gateway into caring about trees generally
[59:51] Allen's favorite fruit tree and the joy of sharing homegrown harvests with neighbors!
[1:01:33] Where to find Allen, Conservation Treecare, and his work at the Amazon Spheres

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Allen's fruit tree tips,

Follow Allen:

Website
Instagram

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto

Grab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

ZenAI

Visit zen.ai to start your first vibecast for free.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for my plant-filled home office setup!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Biophilic Design Can Boost Productivity In Your Home Office: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 9 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know plants for your home office can do more than just look nice? Office or work from home, they can boost your focus, spark creativity, lift your mood, and cut your stress. It's been proven over and over.

So today, for the Best of Growing Joy series, I'm digging into the archives and refreshing an old solo episode from the middle of the pandemic. Fair warning, you'll hear me talk about work from home a lot, since that's all we were doing back then. Our community got really creative with their setups too.

This one's all about biophilic design, something I keep coming back to this year since I'm renovating my own home through that lens. We'll get into easy ways to turn your desk into a plant-filled workspace that actually helps your productivity and your mental health.

Think about it, work is a huge chunk of our life. Nine to five, five days a week. So why not spend it surrounded by plants? That's what this episode is about: making your workday more joyful, more relaxing, and more productive. I hope it helps.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:07] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on #plantywfh spaces
[04:39] Check out Maria’s Planty WFH space tour
[05:03] What to expect from this episode on work from home setups and biophilic design
[06:50] The AMAZING and unbelievable benefits of engaging with plants and biophilic design, according to 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design
[07:27] What is biophilia, the idea behind it, and the important figures behind this wonderful hypothesis
[09:24] The psychological role of plants in our creativity
[10:09] How being around nature and scenery affects patient recovery, as studied by Dr. Ulrich in 1972 to 1981
[11:13] A review of direct versus involuntary attention based on studies by Stephen R. Kellert and Rachel Kaplan
[13:41] Biophilic Pattern #1: Visual Connection with Nature
[13:54] Planty WFH Tip #1: Put your desk near a window
[14:15] Planty WFH Tip #2: Put plants within the eyeline of your desk
[14:33] Planty WFH Tip #3: Have a green wall in your office
[14:56] Planty WFH Tip #4: If you can’t have real plants, pictures of plants will do!
[15:09] Biophilic Pattern #2: Non-Visual Connection with Nature
[15:26] Planty WFH Tip #5: Play nature sounds like the one-square inch forest silence in the Olympic National Park, bird songs, or waves
[16:36] Planty WFH Tip #6: Have different plant scents nearby, or you can use a diffuser like Maria!)
[16:53] Biophilic Pattern #3: Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
[17:09] Planty WFH Tip #7: Set up bird feeders or pollinator-attracting plants, or take care of rare-blooming plants for a nice surprise
[17:39] Biophilic Pattern #4: Thermal and Air Flow Variability
[17:59] Biophilic Pattern #5: Presence of Water
[18:07] Planty WFH Tip #8: It’s your humidifier’s time to shine! Maybe a tiny fancy plug-in fountain?
[18:40] Biophilic Pattern #6: Dynamic and Diffuse Light
[18:52] Planty WFH Tip #9: Install a grow light with a timer, and have a more sustainable work hours setup!
[19:12] Planty WFH Tip #10: Reduce your blue light intake and light candles after a long day of work
[19:33] Biophilic Pattern #7: Connection with Natural Systems
[19:47] Biophilic Pattern #8: Biomorphic Forms and Patterns
[19:56] Did you know there are interesting and precise angles in nature?
[20:35] Biophilic Pattern #9: Material Connection with Nature
[21:07] Planty WFH Tip #11: Add accents in your home office like wood grains, fossil textures, and bamboo rattans
[21:30] Planty WFH Tip #12: Try a natural color palette of greens and browns
[21:50] How Maria and Billy managed their storage during their move
[24:52] Biophilic Pattern #10: Prospect
[25:04] Why it’s important to change the focus of your eyes every once in a while
[25:18] Biophilic Pattern #11: Refuge
[25:19] Why Maria recommends a planty screen-free space
[26:10] Biophilic Patterns #12: Mystery and #13: Risk and Peril
[26:20] The biggest rule of thumb of biophilic designs for Maria
[27:06] If you can’t have real plants, download the Bloom and Grow Radio’s free and gorgeous watercolor of prickly pear cactus in various states of bloom!
[28:03] Planty WFH Tip #13: Envelop your space in plants (if you can!)
[28:32] Maria’s planty WFH tips and ideas based on her own WFH setup
[30:04] The best plants for low-light home offices
[31:13] Are you blessed with a high-light office situation? Maria recommends these plants that love abundant light
[31:36] Planty WFH Tip #14: Install grow lights to incorporate more plants
[32:44] Planty WFH Tip #15: Tiny space? Go vertical!
[34:21] Maria’s biggest takeaways from 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design and her top advice on #plantyWFH setups
[36:26] Finding joy and awe in your #plantyWFH as a small break from your work day

Mentioned in our conversation:

Get the free download with 9 Tips for Greening Up Your Work From Home Office Space
Check out Maria's #plantywfh office tour on youtube!
BAGR YouTube video Houseplant Tour: My Restorative Plant Corner // Why Plant Care Truly is Self Care
BAGR Episode How To Use Plants To Create Restorative Environments With Anne Meore From NYBG
14 Patterns of Biophilic Design by William Browning, Catherine Ryan, and Joseph Clancy
Hoh Rainforest Audio
Biophilia by Edward O. Wilson
Frederick Law Olmsted
View Through a Window May Influence Recovery from Surgery by Roger Ulrich
Stephen R. Kellert
Attention Restoration Theory: Exploring the Role of Soft Fascination and Mental Bandwidth by Rachel Kaplan
What Was That Like Podcast by Scott Johnson

Which biophilic design tip are you most excited to try in your workspace?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Plant Parents Need Nighttime Garden Break for Mindful Gardening

Tue, 7 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if the most relaxing time for you in your garden isn't during the day, but after dark? In those cool summer nights when garden chores aren't practical because you can't see very well, we have a unique opportunity to ease burnout, support mental health, and deepen your connection to plants and nature. So I'm joined by a friend, Perla Sofia Curbelo-Santiago, a repeat guest and the author of Verdura, to talk about her new take on garden breaks after dark. And we discuss how to create simple, mindful rituals that help plant parents unwind, reset, and find joy in the garden in the evening, in even just 10 minutes. Let's get started!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:39] Catching up with Perla Sofia Curbelo-Santiago and the Northwest Flower and Garden Show!
[03:43] What Perla has been up to since publishing her book, Verdura
[05:13] How do garden breaks improve employee well-being?
[09:15] Perla’s personal wake-up call with burnout and
[10:22] Why we need to stop feeling guilty about taking breaks
[14:05] Why shifting your garden break to the evening is an overlooked opportunity
[14:58] Experience single-origin honey with 3x more antioxidants with Manukora!
[16:43] How experiencing complete darkness after Hurricane Maria inspired Perla’s night sky gardening
[18:36] How our artificial outdoor lighting negatively affects pollinators and migrating birds
[19:01] Why it’s actually easier to relax in your garden at night than during the day
[21:12] Simple ways to light your outdoor spaces without disturbing local wildlife
[25:14] How to safely plan your paths and prepare for your first garden break after dark
[28:48] What should you actually do during a 5 to 15-minute nighttime garden break?
[33:25] How to take a meaningful nature break when winter weather keeps you indoors
[36:43] How one client uses her garden's evening soundscape to decompress after a long workday
[41:21] Where to find Perla, AgroChic, and her resources online!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 225: Indoor Plant Projects for Stress Relief with Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago
¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life: 30 Projects to Nurture Your Passion for Plants and Find Your Bliss by Perla Curbelo-Santiago

For Perla's mindful gardening insights,

Website – Spanish
Website – English
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter/X

Follow Perla:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

ZenAI

Visit zen.ai to start your first vibecast for free.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Think Beyond Pots: Design A Landscape With Herbs

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if herbs go beyond the small, contained, and kitchen-window plants we use them for? Herbs could do so, so much more! In this episode, I sit down with Sue Goetz, a garden designer, author, and herb obsessive, to explore the many different ways we can use our favorite herbs in our garden landscape. She has a five-foot rosemary hedge in her backyard and uses chamomile between her stepping stones. She also grows lavender, sage, and catmint as full-on landscape plants that feed her, scent her garden, attract pollinators, and keep deer out. So not only do herbs have flavor, fragrance, and medicinal properties, they’re also low-maintenance once established. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:38] Meet garden designer and author Sue Goetz!
[02:09] How Sue developed a passion for plants
[05:07] Why herbs are the most "generous" plants
[06:28] Why scent is the most underutilized sense in our gardens
[08:57] How to start treating herbs as large landscape shrubs, trees, and hedges
[10:45] Which herbs are best for replacing large plants/hedges?
[12:23] How to get large creeping and upright rosemary hedges
[15:09] Invest in quality soil and compost to build your garden’s foundation with Espoma Organic!
[16:33] What are some deer-resistant herbs that we can use as protectors?
[19:02] Which smaller herbs work best for edging borders and invisible fences
[20:24] Is Alyssum an herb?
[20:48] Landscape herb sun needs and chamomile ground cover
[24:37] How chives double as a sturdy pollinator magnet and an easy DIY gift
[26:25] How can we use herbs as landscape plants to attract more pollinators?
[29:04] Why you might be killing your lavender and how it actually wants to be treated
[32:10] How to pair landscape herbs together (and which aggressive spreaders belong in pots)
[34:34] Why you should grow what you love and then try one "crazy" experiment
[38:55] How to use colored basil for landscape pop and cut flower arrangements
[41:21] Simple ratio for mixing your own herbal bath salts from the garden
[44:26] Where to find Sue, her blog, and her themed container herb gardening book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Sue's recommended herbs for garden landscaping,

Website
The Herb Lover's Garden
Instagram
Facebook

Follow Sue:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

ZenAI

Visit zen.ai to start your first vibecast for free.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Lisa's easy-care fern guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fern Care Guide: Easy Care Ferns for Plant Parents: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Ferns are some of the most gorgeous houseplants you can grow... and one of the oldest plants on the planet. They're basically living dinosaurs. But if you've ever watched a maidenhair fern grow in a sidewalk crack, only to crumble the second you bring it indoors, you know exactly why ferns have a reputation for being impossible to keep alive.

Most people aren't failing at ferns. They're just growing the wrong fern for their home.

In this episode, I'm bringing back one of my favorite interviews from the archives with my friend Lisa from The Houseplant Guru. Lisa is a lifelong plant expert who has successfully grown ferns for years, even in a Midwest home that's about as far from a tropical rainforest as you can get.

We're talking about how to keep your ferns healthy, how to actually get them to grow, why you keep finding crispy fronds all over your floor, and how to choose the right fern for your lifestyle and your home conditions. Spoiler: it's almost never going to be the maidenhair fern... unless you're growing it under glass.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:03] Meet houseplant expert Lisa!
[03:27] Lisa’s 60-year-old heirloom Boston fern and why ferns get a bad rap
[06:05] Where do ferns grow naturally?
[08:53] Is there something about ferns' root systems that makes them more finicky?
[10:51] How to choose the right window and light placement for ferns
[12:28] How to fertilize ferns without burning their roots?
[14:40] How to water ferns correctly?
[20:53] How to safely treat pests and scale on sensitive leaves
[23:55] What are spores, stolons, and how do ferns actually reproduce?
[29:05] Maidenhair ferns
[29:56] What are the best ferns for your home?
[30:54] What does Lisa recommend with brown fronds?
[34:20] Unique collector ferns to add to your collection!
[38:20] How to care for staghorn ferns
[41:36] How to properly water a bird’s nest fern without rotting the center
[44:23] Tips for raising tree ferns and baby mother ferns using closed glass terrariums
[46:53] Where to find Lisa, her resources, and her books!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Which fern are you most excited to try in your home?

Follow Lisa:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here for Evan's advice!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Let Nature Be Your Garden Designer

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if we don't design or control our gardens, but instead collaborate with them? I moved from the lush woods of Zone 5B to a front yard full of sand in Zone 10B Florida and felt like I had no control over my garden design. It was frustrating! So I sat down with Evan Meyer of Bloedel Reserve, a 140-acre garden and wild lands complex on Bainbridge Island just outside of Seattle, to help me feel more grounded in my new garden. Evan has spent his career working across the states studying restoration ecology, native plants, and conservation horticulture. We talked about co-designing with nature, as he believes we should move away from the "God complex" of traditional garden design and let Mother Nature be our co-designer. Listen in!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:57] Meet Evan Meyer, Executive Director of Bloedel Reserve!
[05:15] What Evan learned about ecological horticulture across different climates
[10:15] Why individual home gardens have a larger ecological footprint than public parks
[12:19] How the plant supply chain keeps most landscapes generic
[15:43] Experience single-origin honey with 3x more antioxidants with Manukora!
[17:28] Prep your kitchen for garden harvest season with Caraway Cookware!
[18:53] Why are more gardeners actively seeking out native plants?
[21:45] How to co-design your home garden with nature
[22:06] If a tree falls, leave it!
[24:42] Why you should read your local ecology
[25:46] Let’s reframe garden "problems" as opportunities
[29:10] More examples from Bloedel that home gardeners can actually steal
[30:06] How does Bloedel's moss gardener curate rather than plant?
[31:44] Retrain your eyes to find dormant plants and deadwood beautiful!
[34:35] Practical steps for learning your local wild ecology
[37:58] How an ecologically minded front yard builds neighborhood community
[39:07] The rise of whimsy in garden design and why we're craving that feeling right now
[40:13] What to expect when you visit Bloedel Reserve!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Interested in doing a collab with your garden?

Follow Evan & Bloedel Reserve:
Evan's LinkedIn
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Caraway

Visit carawayhome.com and use promo code BLOOM at checkout for an additional 10% off your order.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

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Carnivorous Plants: Care Guide and Types of Carnivorous Plants for Indoor Growing - Best of Growing Joy Replay

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

We’ve likely all had some run-in with a carnivorous plant. I brought one of those little Venus flytraps home from the hardware store, even though I had no idea how to care for it. Maybe you have marveled at the wide array of these plants at your local botanical garden. Or maybe you just know the man-eating Audrey II from Little Shop of Horrors! However you found them, you have probably figured out that these plants are in a league of their own. Proper carnivorous plant care is incredibly specific. They are a whole subsect of plants, and they might just get you if you do not care for them correctly. So I invited Damon from California Carnivores to help. He is a carnivorous plant expert (learned from Peter D'Amato) and is going to teach us everything we need to know to grow them indoors! Let's jump in!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:35] Damon’s history with carnivorous plants
[07:28] What are carnivorous plants? What makes up a carnivorous plant?
[13:25] Where to find carnivorous plants in the wild
[16:33] Why conservation of carnivorous plants is a must
[19:01] How long have carnivorous plants been around?
[20:09] Damon shares what he thinks of Little Shop of Horrors musical
[22:07] General care rules for growing carnivorous plants indoors
[23:00] The right kind of water for carnivorous plants (and how to identify them in a store!)
[25:23] How the “tray method” replicates a bog environment at home
[27:39] The best carnivorous plants to grow indoors (Venus flytrap, pitcher plants, butterworts)
[31:06] What is the best growing media for carnivorous plants?
[33:43] Why you shouldn’t use terracotta pots for your carnivorous plants
[35:00] What’s the ideal sunlight for carnivorous plants (+ grow lights!)
[37:04] Should you fertilize carnivorous plants?
[39:31] How to feed your Venus flytrap and Cape sundews
[41:54] Fertilizing your pitcher plants!
[44:14 How much humidity do carnivorous plants need?
[45:22] How to make your Venus flytrap go dormant
[46:39] Can you fertilize your carnivorous plants even if they’re catching bugs?
[47:15] Can you overwater sundews and butterworts?
[48:11] Taking care of your Mexican butterworts
[49:36] Damon’s recommended beginner carnivorous plants
[51:03] Should you still buy Venus flytraps even when they’re not sustainably sourced?
[53:46] Where to find Damon, his book ‘The Savage Garden,’ and nursery resources!

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Savage Garden
Wetlands Reclamation Act
Osmocote
Maxsea All-Purpose Nutrient Fertilizer
California Carnivores YouTube video: Winter Dormancy for Temperate Plants in Cold Climates

For Damon's detailed carnivorous plants care guide,

Follow Damon:
Website
Instagram
YouTube
TikTok

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for everything you need to know about how to repot with confidence!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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How to Repot Plants: The Ultimate Repotting Tutorial: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

If you are just starting out as a plant parent, there comes a moment when you realize your plant has outgrown its pot and you need to figure out how to repot it. And in learning how to repot plants, you might feel like you are doing it wrong, or you end up being way too careful and precious about the whole thing.

Repotting is actually a very simple process, and it can even become a really fun and meditative part of caring for your plants.

Today, I am bringing back a solo episode from the archives as part of the Best of Growing Joy series. This is your go-to beginner's guide on how to repot houseplants the right way. I will walk you through the most common repotting mistakes I see beginner plant parents make so you can avoid them and feel confident going into your next repotting session.

This episode is completely free, but if you want extra support with visuals, soil science tips, and a deeper dive into how to repot plants with confidence, I have a very affordable repotting course linked here. I hope this episode is helpful, quick, and gets you fully set up for success at your next repotting party!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:30] Things I learned about repotting in the last couple of years
[03:34] Some personal plant care routines
[04:59] Do some spring cleaning!
[06:28] Repotting vs potting up vs potting up water-rooted cuttings
[09:04] Some rules to remember in potting up
[10:43] Do the two-inch “bump up” rule when potting up
[11:59] When should you pot up?
[13:08] What is repotting and why is it important?
[14:36] How do you repot a plant?
[15:03] Get stylish, minimalist grow lights your plants will love with Soltech!
[17:16] Give your plants the love they deserve with Espoma's organic, eco-friendly potting mixes!
[19:08] Common mistake people make when repotting/potting up
[19:30] How do you pot up water-rooted cuttings?
[21:02] General steps for repotting/potting up/potting up water-rooted cuttings
[27:31] The best time to repot or pot up houseplants
[29:05] Why you should not pot your houseplants in dirt from outside
[32:00] Make sure that you saturate the soil!
[32:35] Pay attention to the type of container or pot you are using
[34:08] Use repotting as an opportunity for mindfulness
[37:16] A letter to my pepper plant going into transplant shock

Mentioned in our conversation:

Is your plant currently root bound and waiting to be repotted?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Feeling hopeless? Try growing flowers. Here's how.

Tue, 9 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Aren't flowers just the perfect little pockets of joy? I have been following Claudia from In the Garden with Claudia on Instagram for over a year now, and I live for her cut flower garden stories! I’ve been feeling a little humbled by my own garden setbacks in South Florida recently. So when I finally got her on the podcast, I thought we were going to do a straight-up how-to on growing flowers. And we did, kind of. But this conversation turned into what flowers can actually do for you! Claudia has turned her space into a garden with thousands of blooms that make me excited for my next garden season. I hope this helps you find your own smile as big as the one Claudia put on my face! Let's jump in!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:40] Meet Claudia, the queen of backyard cut flower joy!
[04:56] How she turned her backyard into a cut flower garden
[07:31] She was a pre-dental student!? (a career pivot)
[09:49] What her first couple of seasons gardening looked like
[14:08] Why Claudia chose a production-style layout over traditional garden design
[15:29] Fuel your garden mornings with the caramel-tasting bioactives in Manukora Honey!
[17:15] Building her dream garden on a budget!
[19:53] Claudia’s experience from disliking to growing dahlias
[22:38] How to seed start indoors (Claudia grows 4000+ seeds!)
[26:09] My biggest pain point right now
[28:21] What is Claudia’s cut flower planting strategy for dahlias?
[31:03] How she spaces and organizes her dahlia beds
[32:08] Our favorite Espoma Organic products!
[34:27] How and when to fertilize dahlias throughout the growing season
[35:46] How to set up irrigation for cut flowers
[36:38] Daily maintenance routines for better airflow and pest defense
[38:28] Why you should deadhead your flowers for more blooms
[39:50] How to manage and share excess flowers?
[42:18] Selling her first massive bouquets at the office!
[44:41] How to structure a flower CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)
[48:03] What are Claudia’s joyful practices in her garden?
[50:59] How the ‘In the Garden with Claudia’ YouTube channel started
[54:52] Claudia’s dream of scaling up to a Washington flower farm
[56:58] Where to find Claudia’s social media and upcoming resources!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Claudia's tried and tested methods of growing cut flowers,

Follow Claudia:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Kelly's beginner-friendly garden design principles!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

9 Garden Design Tips from an Interior Designer: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 4 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for your garden to be a little more curated, calm, and cohesive (put together in a way that just feels right) what if you've been looking for advice in the wrong places? What if you shouldn't be looking at a garden designer at all, but instead at an interior designer to give you garden design tips that help pull everything together?

I'm bringing this one back as part of the Best of Growing Joy series a conversation I had a couple of years ago with Kelly Wilkniss, an interior designer, avid gardener, and co-host of the Decorating Tips and Tricks podcast. Kelly uses her interior design principles in the garden, and I still use the concepts we talked about in my own garden and houseplant collection today.

We cover how these beginner-friendly garden design principles can completely change and improve your plants and your outdoor space, and you'll walk away with practical tips to create flow, balance, beauty, and calm in your garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:50] How has Kelly’s gardening passion intersected with her interior design career?
[07:16] What inspired Kelly to do an all-white garden
[08:45] What is Kelly’s interior design style?
[10:30] Kelly’s opinion on modernizing antiques
[12:01] How did she transition from being a lawyer to an interior designer?
[14:08] Where can you find stylish lights for upgrading indoor plant environments?
[16:04] Where to find a personalized Mother's Day gift that includes handcrafted wind chimes
[20:31] Tip #1 Take a photo of interior and exterior spaces (it promotes a cohesive design flow!)
[21:56] Tip #2 Limit your color palette
[25:18] Tip #3 Create a flow
[33:49] A must-have book for outdoor living area design ideas with mix-and-match suggestions and before-and-after pictures
[35:10] Tip #4 Plant in odd numbers
[37:55] Tip #5 Layering!
[40:44] Tip #6 Balance and scale
[44:26] Tip #7 Visual noise
[48:48] Tip #8 The touch of black
[52:08] Tip #9 Not having an ugly storage
[01:00:13] Where can you find Kelly on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 145: Interior Design Trends and Houseplants With Betsy From Affordable Interior Design
Wayfair sheds
Growing Joy Episode 180: Minimalism and Plants With Stephanie of Sustainable Minimalist

Which of the 9 interior design tips are you most excited to try in your garden?

Follow Kelly:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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What is Hügelkultur and How to Install a Hügelkultur Garden Bed

Tue, 2 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever heard of the hügelkultur gardening method? I first heard the word ‘hügelkultur’ a couple of years ago while visiting The Lodge at Woodloch's organic farm. They had this beautiful setup where they grew the food that the spa guests would eat. And in the middle of it all was this raised bed that looked like it was mid-construction. It was a hügelkultur bed. Since then, I kept hearing that word, especially among organic growers! So for this episode, I sat down with Sarah Wagstaff of SUOT Farm (Small Units of Time). Sarah is a full-time flower farmer, and her entire farm is built on hügelkultur! Come learn with me!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:09] Meet flower farmer Sarah Wagstaff from SUOT Farm!
[03:45] How Sarah's childhood and family inspired her love for growing plants
[05:55] Why Sarah decided to build her entire flower farm using hügelkultur
[07:27] What is hügelkultur and where did it originate?
[09:30] How long does it take for woody debris to break down before you can plant?
[12:49] Can you plant into a new hügelkultur mound immediately?
[14:53] Build a healthy soil foundation for your garden with Espoma Organic!
[17:00] How to properly layer greens and browns to create compost in place
[19:23] How to use the 180-degree topography of a mound to maximize growing space
[21:43] How tall should you actually build a hügelkultur bed?
[24:20] Till vs. no-till: Which protects soil decomposers for long-term soil fertility?
[27:35] How spent mushroom blocks can add extra nutrients and mycorrhizae
[28:53] Scaling hügelkultur down for small containers and porch gardening
[29:41] Common mistakes when building your first hügelkultur bed
[32:49] Adapting hügelkultur to your specific climate
[33:43] Why Sarah doesn't use additional fertilizers on her hügelkultur beds
[35:28] Why hügelkultur is a perfect solution for gardeners stuck with sandy/poor soil
[37:31] How Sarah grows flowers year-round in Zone 7B
[39:24] How to continually add scraps/compost while your hügelkultur beds are growing
[41:41] How SUOT Farm has evolved over the last 10 years
[44:10] Where to find Sarah, her CSA, and her hügelkultur PDF!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Sarah's guide on hügelkultur for small gardens,

Follow Sarah:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Shop
Bouquet Subscription

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Mark's expert Calathea troubleshooting guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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How to Keep Calatheas Alive Without Losing Your Mind: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Fri, 29 May 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Calathea is one of the most gorgeous and often most disappointing houseplants a new plant parent can bring home. If you've ever taken a beginner plant shopping, you already know: they walk straight to the calatheas. Can you blame them? These plants look like they were literally hand-painted by Mother Nature.

But calathea care is pretty tricky. The leaves curl. The edges go crispy and brown. The humidity demands feel impossible. Suddenly, your most beautiful plant becomes your most dramatic one.

That's why I brought Mark Hachadourian, Director of Glasshouse Horticulture at the New York Botanical Garden, to cover how to care for calatheas and prayer plants, troubleshoot the most common problems, and actually keep them alive.

In this episode, we learn:

What Marc does for the NYBG
What plants fall under the Marantaceae Family
Prayer Plant, Calathea and Stromanthe- their differences and similarities
Why do the leaves fold up and down as in “prayer”
Why the bottoms of many Marantaceae are purple
Why the tips brown and how we help avoid this
Why humidity is so important for the Marantaceae family
Marc answers a collection of listener questions

Mentioned in our conversation:

New York Botanical Garden

What do you think is the #1 reason calatheas are so hard to keep alive?

Follow Marc & NYBG:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Biophilic Design Explained: Boost Mental Health With Nature At Home

Tue, 26 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Does this design decision bring me closer to nature? When I started renovating our new home a few months ago, I wasn’t going to make a single design choice without asking this question. This lens is called biophilic design, and I actually had an episode about it before! But to talk about it more, I’ve invited Oliver Heath, an architect, designer, and thought leader in biophilic design. Oliver is based in England, studied at the Bartlett School of Architecture, runs his own biophilic design consultancy, and has spent decades translating this science from large-scale commercial buildings into something the rest of us can actually use. He also wrote a book called Design a Healthy Home. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:46] How did Oliver discover biophilic design?
[05:30] Is biophilic design taught in architecture school?
[07:34] How Oliver’s consulting firm applies nature to large commercial spaces
[10:05] Why happy people are more productive
[11:47] How biophilic design is trickling down to residential housing and communities
[13:52] What is the true definition of biophilic design?
[15:10] Espoma Organic
[17:31] The "always on" urban environments
[19:09] How nature affects property values, crime rates, and education
[24:41] The three key elements of biophilic design
[27:04] The true foundation of designing a space
[29:41] How to approach indoor airflow, fresh air, and scent
[31:32] Moving beyond technical checklists to the sensory quality of a building
[32:31] How to make your home more biophilic
[34:31] Tips for managing artificial light and circadian rhythms at home
[40:00] Picking colors based on positive nature experiences? (Ecological Valence Theory)
[44:02] Incorporating ‘haptic invitations’ and natural materials into your spaces
[45:34] How an autistic school in London used biophilic niches to create a safe sensory environment
[48:22] How to safely incorporate the sound and feel of water indoors
[51:55] Check out Oliver’s book ‘Design a Healthy Home’
[53:45] Check out Oliver’s online course!
[55:36] Oliver’s favorite biophilic features in his own home
[57:08] Where to find Oliver, his book, and the Biophilic Design School!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Incorporate nature into your home with easy but key biophilic tips from Oliver,

Follow Oliver:
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for a deeper look at plant intelligence and consciousness!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Wild Truth About Plant Intelligence and Human Connection: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if your houseplants are doing so much more than just looking pretty on your windowsill? What if they’re actually communicating, sensing their environment, and responding in ways we’re only beginning to understand?

In this Best of Growing Joy replay, I sit down with Paco Calvo and Natalie Lawrence, co-authors of Planta Sapiens, to explore plant intelligence, plant behavior, and the big question: do plants have feelings and some form of plant consciousness?

We talk about how plants sense their surroundings, how they “decide” where to grow, and what our human-plant connection can teach us about slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your plants notice you, or what’s really going on inside your favorite vining houseplants, this conversation will totally change how you see every plant in your home and garden!

In this episode, we learn:

[06:32] Who is Professor Paco Palvo?
[07:01] Why is MINT Lab in the philosophy department instead of the plant science department?
[09:28] Who is Natalie Lawrence?
[10:00] The relationship between animals and plants: biophilia
[13:34] What is anthropophilia?
[16:26] What role do houseplants play in our relationship with nature?
[18:04] How humans have shaped the phenotype, or characteristics, of plants through agriculture
[20:09] What special message would you engrave on your wind chime?
[22:40] The best way to sleep better and feel calmer naturally in no time!
[25:58] Different types of intelligence displayed by plants
[26:39] How do we see from a plant’s perspective?
[27:27] Tip 1: Observe the plants’ behavior through time-lapse photography
[27:45] Tip 2: Monitor the plants’ electrophysiological states
[28:14] Tip 3: Observe the plant holistically through naked eyes (the most important!)
[32:41] Melatonin synthesis in plants: what we can learn
[34:57] How vines (climbing plants) have evolved to locate host trees through senses like “sniffing”
[36:59] Where to get the best quality and variety of seeds for ease of planting experience this year!
[38:35] Sourcing a wide variety of high-quality soil, fertilizer, potty mix, and more!
[40:24] What are some of the ways vines (climbing plants) can find their host trees?
[42:04] Are plants smarter? (Hint: It’s not what you think!)
[44:07] What are the limits of technology when it comes to understanding plant intelligence?
[46:56] Do plants have feelings?
[50:24] Do plants understand music?
[53:35] What is plant blindness?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Planta Sapiens: The New Science of Plant Intelligence, book by Paco Calvo and Natalie Lawrence
MINT Lab / Minimal Intelligence Lab
How society makes monsters, TEDx talk by Natalie Lawrence
BBC Wildlife – Natalie Lawrence
BBC Woman's Hour “The unicorn – a symbol of our times?” with Natalie Lawrence
Natalie Lawrence on Aeon Magazine

Do you think your houseplants can actually sense what’s happening around them?

Follow Paco:

MINT Lab

Follow Natalie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beneficial Insect Consult on My Greenwall with DMV Beneficials

Tue, 19 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Do you have the guts to release beneficial insects in your home? I recently invited Jamie, the co-founder of DMV Beneficials, into my studio to do exactly that. We spent the afternoon performing a professional consultation on my green wall. We examined my alocasia, philodendron, hoya, and more under a microscope to see what was really going on. We found broad mites, spider mite eggs, and a possible infestation starting on my rabbit's foot fern. It was a little scary, but probably the best way to recreate nature right in our living rooms is to release these beneficial insects.

You can watch the full video of our release on my YouTube channel if you want to see these bugs in action!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:03] What to expect from this unique live-audio episode
[07:04] Meet Jamie from DMV Beneficials and what her company offers!
[08:46] What are beneficial insects?
[09:53] How Jamie conducts a live pest diagnostic check
[12:27] What kind of microscope should you use to look for pests?
[14:05] Why we start diagnostics with plants like Alocasia and Philodendron
[15:35] Manukora
[17:20] How to identify eggs vs. dust
[19:45] Is it normal to see pests on your plants?
[22:12] Checking for thrips on a philodendron
[24:24] Are beneficial bugs safe to use in a home with birds and pets?
[24:49] Identifying broad mites and how they get inside your home
[27:40] What to look for when checking Hoyas for flat mites
[29:48] Checking my fern for pests
[32:58] How to use keystone plants to assess your plant population health
[33:26] How to release soil predators (Stratiolaelaps) to your pots
[35:22] How to aesthetically place and hang beneficial insect sachets
[39:02] Treating ferns and hoyas with the beneficial insects!
[43:21] How to safely release lacewings to your plants
[46:44] How to use a hex cell to treat 60 plants with one release
[49:19] Where to find Jamie, DMV Beneficials, and local bug chapters!

Mentioned in our conversation:

If you're curious to know which beneficials work for your houseplants,

Follow DMV Beneficials:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
X
YouTube

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

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Check out the full show notes and blog for everything you need to know about hydrangea care, pruning, and soil!

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The Hydrangea Care Secrets Behind Those Massive Summer Blooms: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 14 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

To me, a hedge of hydrangea is one of the most iconic things you can do for your garden. They're epic, gorgeous, and yes, they have a reputation for being a little high maintenance. But once you set them up for success, hydrangeas can be one of the easiest flowering shrubs to grow.

In this Best of Growing Joy replay, I'm sitting down with Ryan McEnaney aka @ryanplantsplants a fifth-generation member of Bailey Nurseries and the face behind the best-selling Endless Summer Hydrangeas collection. Ryan breaks down everything from the 4 main hydrangea varieties and the number one pruning mistake killing your blooms, to soil pH secrets for changing your flower color, fertilizing tips, and how reblooming varieties can flower every month.

If you already have a hydrangea in your garden, it's going to be so much happier this year. And if you don't have one yet? You just might be inspired to bring one home!

In this episode, we learn:

[06:13] What has Ryan’s plant parent journey looked like?
[09:54] What are the 4 main species of hydrangea?
[13:42] Understanding bloom cycles for pruning
[16:56] Say goodbye to balcony watering stress this summer with self-watering planters!
[17:23] Learn how to create the perfect cutting garden for bouquets with The Cut Flower Handbook
[18:25] What is the blooming cycle of hydrangeas?
[20:09] When should you prune hydrangeas?
[22:40] How does soil affect the color of Hydrangea macrophylla blooms?
[28:58] What should you know about planting hydrangeas in the ground?
[30:12] What’s the general light guideline?
[30:42] Common mistakes people make with planting hydrangea
[31:23] Get everything you need, from containers to raised beds, with Gardener's Supply Company
[32:40] Check your hydrangeas’ soil acidity with Espoma Organics
[34:30] Why is it important to choose hydrangeas with flower buds?
[42:42] How to extend the length of hydrangea blooms
[48:26] Where can you find Ryan on social media?
[48:43] Where can you get Ryan’s book ‘Field Guide to Outside Style’?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Have you been struggling to get your hydrangeas to bloom?

Follow Ryan

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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How to Grow Sweet Peas, The World's Most Nostalgic Flower

Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Don't sweet peas have the most amazing floral scent? I remember them as a scent before I ever knew them as a flower, like the Bath & Body Works body spray that no other brands can seem to replicate. Then I realized I had never actually done an episode on these before, so there’s no better time than to invite my dear plant friend, Marryn Mathis, the Sweet Pea Queen, to share her story! Marryn quit a 21-year IT career, moved her family onto raw land in a 28-foot travel trailer, and built The Farmhouse Flower Farm from the ground up. She's now growing 40,000 sweet pea seedlings a season, breeding her own varieties, and just wrote a book on the subject! Let's get growing!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:49] Meet Marryn Mathis, the Sweet Pea Queen!
[06:51] Growing flowers at scale without formal training
[08:12] Growing cut flowers for florists vs. harvesting seeds for sale
[09:14] What’s her process of breeding and naming a new Sweet Pea variety?
[10:52] Why Sweet Pea deserves more popularity!
[13:38] What’s the history behind Sweet Pea? (Hint: It started in Sicily!)
[15:37] Lisa Ziegler’s Cut Flower Handbook
[16:55] Espoma Organic
[18:47] How sweet peas migrated from garden fixtures into the cut flower industry
[19:38] What is the sweet pea fragrance scale and how do you differentiate them?
[21:31] Spencer sweet peas vs. other varieties
[22:37] How to grow sweet peas in hot climates and warmer zones (like Florida and Texas)
[24:31] Starting sweet peas from seed vs. buying garden center seedlings
[24:45] How to start sweet peas from seed
[26:25] The #1 mistake people make when growing sweet peas
[27:06] The 55-degree germination temperature for sweet pea seeds
[29:51] When to transplant indoor-started sweet peas
[31:27] How sunlight and location impact the lifespan of your sweet peas
[32:58] How to set up drip irrigation for sweet pea beds
[36:17] How to create a magical "Sweet Pea Tunnel" with cattle panels
[37:15] What are the biggest mistakes beginners make with sweet peas?
[39:45] Some cutting tips for sweet peas
[41:38] Is there a way to preserve sweet pea scent after cutting?
[41:51] What are the best workhorse sweet pea varieties for beginners?
[45:30] Where to find Marryn, her seeds, and her farm!
[46:10] Check out their new storefront on their farm!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Sweet Pea School Book by Marryn Mathis
PRO-MIX Potting Mix
Espoma Potting Soil Mix
Growing Joy 246: What is Regenerative Gardening and Permaculture? with Stephanie Rose of Garden Therapy

For Marryn's trusted advice on how to grow sweet peas,

Follow Marryn:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Shop

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa M Ziegler

Pick up The Cut Flower Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for my favorite beginner lettuce varieties, seed-starting tips, and easy harvest tricks!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grow Your Own Salad: How to Grow Lettuce from Seed to Harvest: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 7 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

If you knew where most grocery store lettuce comes from and what it goes through before it lands in that plastic box, you’d never look at bagged salad the same way again.

In this Best of Growing Joy episode, I’m sharing a practical, beginner-friendly guide on how to grow lettuce from seed so you can harvest fresh, crunchy salad greens right outside your door with my friend and garden coach, Nicole Burke of Gardener. We talk about simple ways to grow lettuce in raised beds, containers, grow bags, and even tiny balconies, so you can enjoy homegrown salads on repeat all season long!

Nicole breaks down the different types of lettuce and salad greens, when to direct sow seeds versus starting them indoors, and the watering routine that actually keeps those shallow roots happy. We also chat about easy organic pest strategies, smart spacing, and how to harvest lettuce so it keeps growing back, giving you that dreamy cut-and-come-again salad garden.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident starting lettuce from seed and excited to swap those plastic boxes for vibrant, living greens just a few steps from your kitchen!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:03] Maria shares indoor hydroponic lettuce growth and outdoor lettuce garden prep.
[06:02] Why lettuce is ideal for first-time food-growing houseplant parents.
[06:53] What is Gardenary all about?
[08:23] How Nicole makes beautiful raised-bed gardens
[14:19] Where are 98% of the United States lettuces grown?
[17:01] What materials are needed for lettuce?
[20:47] Where can you find a wide array of quality lettuce seeds and seed mixes?
[23:27] Where to get a potting mix, soil, fertilizer, or compost for your garden beds/containers?
[25:15] What lettuce does Nicole recommend for beginners?
[24:34] Lettuce Category #1: Loose leaf
[29:15] Lettuce Category #2: Head lettuce
[31:09] Is Nicole indoor-starting or direct-sowing lettuce?
[32:32] How do you calculate when it's time to start direct sowing?
[35:55] What is the process of growing lettuce from seed?
[36:14] Process #1: If you have limited space
[40:40] Where to find a nutrition program for weight management, more energy, and clear skin?
[42:55] Process #2: If you live in an apartment
[46:01] What are Nicole’s tips for harvesting?
[47:53] What mistakes do people commonly make in growing lettuce?
[49:58] How to eat Swiss chard
[52:23] Have you heard of Nicole’s newest book Kitchen Garden Revival?
[57:45] Where can you follow Nicole?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 120 Designing and Planning My Garden // Coaching With Nicole of Gardenary
Ivette Soler’s book The Edible Front Yard: The Mow-Less, Grow-More Plan for a Beautiful, Bountiful Garden
Hydroponic planter
Nicole Burke’s book Kitchen Garden Revival
Nicole’s Burke’s book Leaves, Roots & Fruit
Rocky Top Mix Salad Blend
Territorial Seed Company Spring Mixes
Martha Stewart's book Vegetables: Inspired Recipes and Tips for Choosing, Cooking, and Enjoying the Freshest Seasonal Flavors: A Cookbook
10 Years, 4 Cities, 8 Gardens-Nicole Burke's Kitchen Garden Journey

Craving fresher, crunchier salads straight from your garden?

Follow Nicole

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blog for David's expert advice!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Monarch Butterflies, Growing Milkweed, And The Power Of Plant People

Tue, 5 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Why are monarch butterflies so special? If you follow me on Instagram, you already know my answer. The monarch butterfly has completely taken over my heart. I literally dressed up as one for Halloween this year, and I have zero regrets! Ever since my husband and I moved to Florida, I started planting milkweed just to watch them hatch in my own yard. And wow. Seeing their life cycle happen right in front of me made me think deeply about gardening. It also made me realize I had a lot to learn. So I called up my favorite wildlife nerd, David Mizejewski, and we spent a whole podcast episode just geeking out about monarch butterflies together! Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:57] Meet David Mizejewski, a naturalist, NWF, and a fellow monarch nerd!
[04:36] Why monarch butterflies hold a special emotional place for me
[06:06] What are the benefits of monarchs?
[08:49] Are monarchs really disappearing?
[10:53] Why the endangered/threatened designation is so confusing
[12:52] What would a "threatened" listing actually do for monarchs?
[15:28] Manukora
[17:13] How microplastics affect the environment
[18:25] Why are monarchs disappearing?
[19:20] The monarch lifecycle
[22:19] Why monarchs are specialists
[29:48] How gardeners can actually help monarch butterflies
[31:33] Native milkweed varieties worth knowing
[35:12] How to source pesticide-free native plants
[36:45] What are neonicotinoids?
[37:37] Which milkweed to avoid (aka the tropical milkweed problem)
[42:39] How to visually identify tropical milkweed
[45:05] Why you shouldn’t hand-rear monarchs!
[48:25] How the monarch migration actually works
[52:03] What to do instead of hand-rearing!
[53:43] Why parasitic wasps killing caterpillars is natural
[57:46] Where to find native plants by zip code
[59:46] How to certify your monarch garden with NWF
[01:01:19] My plans for my new home, my HOA, and my neighborhood kids!
[01:02:35] NWF's "cues of care" strategy
[01:04:37] Where to find David and all NWF resources

Mentioned in our conversation:

If you want to help the monarch population,

Follow David:

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
TikTok
LinkedIn

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for beginner-friendly herbalism tips and recipes!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Herbalism 101: Grow, Harvest, and Use Medicinal Herbs: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know your “regular” herb garden can double as a medicinal herb garden, and that the mint you grab for mojitos can actually calm your nerves and your digestion? I used to think herbalism meant mysterious tincture bottles and complicated formulas… until I started turning the basil, mint, and lemon balm I grow into simple herbal teas I actually drink every night.

In this Best of Growing Joy episode, I’m revisiting a conversation with Juliet from the Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine, botanist, herbalist, and author of The Healing Garden. If you’re a gardener, tea lover, or herbalism beginner who wants to learn how to grow and use medicinal herbs you already have, this episode is for you!

You’ll learn which common herbs (like mint, basil, rosemary, lemon balm, and calendula) are most powerful to start with, how to harvest and dry them for tea, and why plant energetics (matching herbs to your unique body) matters more than any trendy supplement. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to make your own herbal tea from garden herbs instead of reaching for another tea bag.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:58] What led Juliet Blankenspoor to become interested in herbalism
[08:52] What makes plants medicinal, and have they been proven by doctors?
[11:51] Energetics of plants and how to complement their energies with people's
[15:49] How do you determine your own energy constitution?
[16:45] Who is Wim Hoff and what are the possible benefits of cold showers?
[19:16] What's the best way to get started with this completely new field of medicinal benefits?
[22:22] Where to get the best seeds for your spring garden
[23:38] The right choice for safe indoor and outdoor gardening products
[27:03] What are the properties of Mint?
[28:30] Some of the commonly used herbs that we might not be aware of
[30:01] What tonic means in the context of herbal medicine
[32:36] What are the medicinal properties of chives?
[33:58] How we can prepare tea from fresh and dried herbs
[38:16] Is there any medicinal value to the mint stem?
[39:43] What other herbs can you grow to make your own tea?
[44:13] Your next favorite kitchen appliance!
[47:19] What are some of the most versatile medicinal plants Juliet recommends exploring that aren't found in a traditional culinary garden?
[48:19] What plants should you add to your culinary garden for medical benefits?
[52:38] Juliet Blankespoor’s favorite herbs that you can add to your cooking recipes
[57:39] What can you learn from the book ‘The Healing Garden: Cultivating and Handcrafting Herbal Remedies'?

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Healing Garden: Cultivating and Handcrafting Herbal Remedies, book by Juliet Blankespoor
Tea strainers
Wim Hof Method
FREE 2-week trial to the Garden Party!

Curious what else your herb garden might be hiding?

Follow Juliet

Healing Garden Gateway, Juliet's personal website

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gardening Tips for Seniors: How to Adapt Your Garden as You Age Gracefully

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

I’ve always wanted to make gardening a lifelong hobby because I plan to have dirt under my nails well into my 80s or 90s, but I never really thought through HOW to make that happen. Because as much as we love our plants, gardening as you age is not about doing the same thing forever. I see it with my mom who’s an incredible gardener. She has that true plant parent energy, but even she has to change how she gardens. So what if the secret to longevity is just learning how to garden differently? To help me with that topic is Rhonda Fleming Hayes. She’s the author of Garden for Life and has been gardening across more climates, zones, and life changes than most of us can imagine. And in this episode, she teaches us gardening tips for seniors and how to adapt your garden as you age so gardening stays joyful!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:56] Meet Rhonda Fleming Hayes, author of Garden for Life!
[03:25] What do we call “senior gardeners” without promoting ageism?
[04:21] Why 55 is the turning point for when/how much you garden!
[05:56] How has Rhonda's gardening experience been?
[08:09] How Rhonda’s relationship with her garden has changed as she’s gotten older
[09:42] What are the mistakes senior gardeners make?
[12:04] Gardening as something that should change with you!
[13:03] Why continuing to garden matters as you age
[15:09] Concrete Botany by Joey Santore
[16:14] My summer with Melody + how companionable garden buddies help each other!
[18:49] How to evaluate your garden for safety/accessibility?
[21:00] Tools that make gardening sustainable over time
[23:06] How to start gardening over again when moving to a new space
[25:59] Why you need to create "way stations" to sit and enjoy your garden
[27:52] How to overcome the “ego blow” of hiring professional garden help
[31:01] What does Rhonda's own Minnesota garden look like?
[33:40] What getting help actually looks like in practice
[34:39] Inspiring real-life gardener stories from her book, Garden for Life
[36:27] Where to find Rhonda and her book online

Mentioned in our conversation:

Rhonda’s books:

For Rhonda's complete senior gardening tips

Follow Rhonda:

Instagram
BlueSky
The Garden Buzz Facebook
The Garden Buzz X

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: Concrete Botany by Joey Santore

Grab Concrete Botany at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for fungi basics and growing tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mushroom Cultivation 101: The Mushroom Miniseries: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know mushrooms aren’t actually plants, but a completely different kingdom that plays a huge role in soil health, plant health, and the success of your indoor and outdoor garden?

This is the third episode in our Mushroom Mini Series, and this week we’re having a high-level conversation all about what mushrooms are, how fungi and mycelium work, and why they matter so much for plant parents and anyone interested in holistic plant care.

Louis from North Spore joins me and my husband Billy for a really fun conversation about the underground “wood wide web,” how mushrooms support your garden ecosystem, and why understanding fungi can completely change the way you think about gardening, mushrooms in soil, and growing mushrooms at home.

I hope this conversation helps you better understand the hidden life in your soil and inspires you to look at mushrooms, plant care, and your garden in a whole new way.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:42] What is it like being a mushroom farmer?
[06:40] Multiple harvests from the grow kits through proper moisture management
[08:51] Debunking magic mushroom misconceptions
[2:44] Billy and Maria’s positive experiences with Lion's mane mushroom
[14:34] How do you grow mushrooms indoors?
[14:44] #1 Spray & Grow Kits (The perfect beginner species!)
[18:02] #2 Fruiting Blocks
[19:17] Where can you get premium quality growlights?
[21:05] Where can you find delightful wind chimes that make for a perfect gift choice?
[22:23] #3 Martha Tents (aka North Spore’s Boom Room)
[25:36] How do you avoid mold with a Martha tent?
[28:18] What's the ideal humidity level on the humidistat for the fruiting blocks?
[30:39] What comprises a fruiting block and what goes into making it?
[32:17] How do you distinguish spawns versus spores?
[37:13] How do you pasteurize something?
[37:58] What would be three great beginner mushrooms to start in a grow tent?
[40:09] Economics of mushroom cultivation
[42:26] Can a Martha tent enable a wider range of mushroom growth compared to a mono tub?
[43:21] #3 Mono tub
[50:22] What are the two substrates of Nameko mushrooms?
[54:23] Who is North Spore?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Feeling a little more mushroom curious after this episode?

Follow North Spore

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spring Bulb and Summer Bulb Planting Tutorial with Jenny Rose Carey

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that your bulb garden doesn't have to be high-maintenance? One of my earliest memories is my mom planting what felt like endless tulip bulbs—500 of them, in fact. She was a young mom with three kids, no spare time, and definitely not a person who could fuss over plants every day, but somehow, she always had color! Bulbs showed up for her, and she did not have to slave over her garden to get them. That’s why I know it is possible to create a low‑maintenance garden with bulbs. So I invited Jenny Rose Carey on the show to walk us through it. She gardens on a 4.5‑acre property called Northview, filled with thousands of bulbs that bloom from late winter through fall. She’s a horticulturist, a biologist, a teacher at heart, and the author of The Essential Guide to Bulbs. She shares how bulbs actually work, which ones are worth planting, and how to plant them so they don’t rot or disappear after one season! Let's begin!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:04] Meet Jenny Rose Carey
[07:05] What’s the history behind her 4-acre garden called Northview?
[09:57] What a full season of bulbs actually looks like at Northview
[11:30] What counts as a bulb? (Are dahlias bulbs?)
[12:43] How the bulb cycle works
[14:25] Designing a wedding garden with dahlias, raised beds, and containers full of flowers!
[15:44] Manukora Honey
[17:30] How to understand the seasonal lifecycle & dormancy of bulbs (spring bulb vs summer bulb)
[22:12] How bulbs can create a lower-maintenance garden
[23:37] What are the best summer bulbs?
[26:55] Summer bulbs Jenny loves most for flowers and cutting gardens!
[29:48] Bulb planting 101
[33:20] How do you know which way is up when planting a bulb?
[34:32] Why some bulbs seem to “fail” the first year
[37:16] The drainage rule to avoid bulb rot
[39:28] In-ground vs. containers for bulbs
[41:42] How lasagna planting works for bulbs
[44:39] The best places in your garden to plant bulbs
[45:52] What are Jenny’s favorite fragrant bulbs for summer?
[48:03] The biggest mistakes people make when planting bulbs
[49:15] How to use store-bought bulbs for instant gratification
[50:28] Where to find Jenny, her book The Essential Guide to Bulbs, and her garden at Northview!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy 150: Bulb Basics with Jenks Farmer
The Essential Guide to Bulbs by Jenny Rose Carey
Northview Gardens

For Jenny's complete bulb tutorial,

Website
Northview Garden
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
X

Follow Jenny:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for mushroom-growing tips and everything we mentioned in this episode!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Functional Mushrooms in Your Garden: The Mushroom Miniseries: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that you can actually grow edible gourmet mushrooms in your garden right alongside your tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, herbs, and veggies?

You can! And by doing that, you can improve your soil health, support your garden ecosystem, and add another delicious crop to harvest and enjoy throughout the growing season.

This is the second episode in our Mushroom Mini Series. Last week, we re-released our episode on growing mushrooms indoors, and this week, we’re talking all about how to grow mushrooms outdoors in your garden.

Louis from North Spore joins me and my husband Billy for such a fun conversation about growing mushrooms outdoors right alongside your vegetables, herbs, and even cut flowers.

We talk about beginner-friendly ways to start growing edible mushrooms at home without a fancy setup required! If you’re a plant lover, gardener, or curious plant parent, this episode will open your mind to just how easy and rewarding mushroom gardening can be.

I can’t wait to see what kinds of mushrooms you grow, how you cook them up, and how they support both your garden and your health.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:35] Benefits of Lion's Mane mushroom supplements for improved focus and energy
[09:15] Why should you grow mushrooms in your garden?
[10:45] Specific vocabulary in mushroom cultivation
[12:43] Is mushroom DNA diverse or uniform across different areas?
[15:30] Why you can't simply grow any mushrooms in soil alone
[17:15] Are mushrooms annuals or perennials?
[20:14] Where can you find full spectrum plant lights to bring the beauty of outdoors inside this April?
[22:16] Where can you find a healthy meal delivery program?
[24:52] What protections exist for preventing other mushroom species from colonizing a bed of ripe food and confusing the farmer?
[26:29] Can you harvest mushrooms immediately after inoculating your garden beds?
[27:35] What mushrooms are best for beginners to grow in the garden?
[29:30] Do you need a lot of space to grow a good harvest?
[30:29] Do worms compete or work with mycorrhizal?
[32:25] What materials do you need for growing mushrooms in your garden?
[34:44] Where can you find a wind chime that would make the perfect gift these holidays?
[36:21] How can you grow mushrooms in your mulch?
[41:04] Does a denser, ground-level plant provide better shade for the mushrooms??
[44:00] Is there a general rule for spacing the insertion points when inoculating a bale of hay?
[44:49] How do mycorrhizal networks and mold coexist in nature, particularly in damp and dark environments?
[48:09] How to create a mushroom container for small gardening spaces
[52:49] What are the required maintenance tasks for growing mushrooms during the season?
[57:03] What is the difference between cutting and pulling mushrooms during harvesting?
[58:23] Best beginner mushroom varieties that are resilient to temperature and humidity changes
[59:40] Different mushrooms that you can grow in different garden zones or different climates
[01:00:56] What is the process of inoculating logs for growing mushrooms?
[01:03:48] What's the purpose of wax capping your mushrooms?
[01:05:29] Can mushroom inoculation be done before or after the frost date?
[01:10:12] Where can you find mushroom spawns and learn more about mushroom growing?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Are you officially tempted to start a mushroom bed now?

Follow North Spore

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

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Permaculture for Plant Parents: The Simple Gardening Method That Gives Back

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

My goal this year is to find more ease and joy in my garden! I love my plants, but I don’t want my yard to feel like another job. And when I realized that was a theme that was gonna keep coming up, I knew I needed to do an episode on permaculture. So I invited my plant friend, Brandy Hall. She’s a permaculture designer and has helped me see it as a simple, practical way to garden. She calls herself a garden editor for homeowners, which means she helps people like us turn regular lawns into regenerative spaces that get better over time.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:45] Meet Brandy Hall of Shades of Green Permaculture!
[03:23] How did she become the permaculture expert that she is today?
[04:38] What pesticide exposure did to her family and why it changed everything
[08:24] How travel, farm life, and construction work pulled Brandy into this career
[10:51] Permaculture vs regenerative gardening vs rewilding vs ecological landscaping
[12:50] Is permaculture growing your own food?
[14:44] What are the three pillars of a regenerative landscape?
[14:55] Pillar #1 Restore water cycle
[15:11] Pillar #2 Soil fertility
[15:46] Espoma Organic
[17:22] Pillar #3 Building plant communities
[18:00] Applying permaculture to real neighborhoods
[21:19] How modern development broke the natural water cycle
[23:42] What permaculture does differently with water
[26:22] The biggest water management mistakes homeowners make
[27:23] How to work with your downspouts and rain gardens to manage water
[28:19] Why the soil is your best water storage system
[30:19] How much water actually falls on your roof
[31:55] What does a permaculture site consultation actually look like?
[33:23] How to “read” your own space
[34:47] How to choose plants for permaculture
[36:02] Native vs non‑native plants
[37:39] How to make a permaculture garden look aesthetic (even in an HOA)
[40:00] How Brandy designs beautiful & productive beds
[41:10] Where to start if you're new to permaculture
[42:53] Brandy's online course, The Regenerative Backyard Blueprint
[44:10] Where to find Brandy, her book, and her resources

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture by Brandy Hall
The Cut Flower Handbook: Select, Plant, Grow, and Harvest Gorgeous Blooms by Lisa Ziegler

For Brandy's recommended permaculture habits,

Follow Brandy:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for grow kits, mushroom-growing tips, and everything we mentioned in this episode!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Mushrooms Indoors: The Mushroom Miniseries: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 9 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if your next houseplant could double in size overnight and end up on your dinner plate?

Today we’re talking about how to grow mushrooms indoors and why it might be one of the most fun, beginner-friendly ways to grow edible mushrooms at home.

A couple of years ago, I recorded a Mushroom Miniseries with my husband and mushroom expert Louis from North Spore, and we talked about everything from growing mushrooms indoors to outdoor cultivation and harvesting your own mushrooms at home.

This episode is all about growing mushrooms indoors, including beginner-friendly options like mushroom grow kits, easy edible varieties like oyster mushrooms and lion’s mane, and what you actually need to get started.

It’s weird, it’s fascinating, it’s surprisingly easy, and if you’re a plant parent who’s ever wanted your hobby to become dinner, this one’s for you.

I’m so excited to bring this episode back as part of our Best of Growing Joy series, and I think you’re going to love it.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:56] This episode’s special guest!
[02:02] Billy and I started exploring mushrooms after watching ‘Fantastic Fungi’
[05:57] An overview of our four-part mushroom miniseries!
[07:57] Who is Louis Giller and why is he so crazy about mushrooms?
[11:31] Mushroom appreciation!
[12:36] How we started this passion project
[16:42] What is the difference between mushrooms and fungi?
[19:00] Are you looking for a product that improves plant growth while reducing water usage?
[20:40] Where can you get high-quality potato seeds this summer?
[22:50] What differentiates fungi from flora?
[25:21] What is the main purpose of mushrooms?
[27:08] Let’s explore the Wood Wide Web!
[30:54] What determines the fungus' fruiting body structure?
[35:38] Do potting mixes and composts with mycorrhizae help plants absorb water and nutrients faster, and how does this work?
[37:05] What are the little yellow mushrooms growing in your houseplant soils?
[39:36] What are adaptogenic mushrooms?
[40:40] Chaga and Reishi mushrooms: their anti-inflammatory benefits and unknown mechanisms
[43:43] Why mushroom have high-end protein content
[48:56] Ready to prioritize your health by investing in your sleep with the comfiest bedsheets
[51:07] Are the Cordyceps from The Last of Us TV show real?
[53:21] Louis’ best mushroom-related books for beginners!
[57:37] What are the mushrooms that Loius regularly consumes?
[59:31] What are some affordable ways to grow mushrooms at home?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Champs Trade Shows
Paul Stamets’s film Fantastic Fungi
Pizza ai Funghi
Giuliana Furci
FunDiS
HBO TV Series The Last of Us
Netflix TV Series How to Change Your Mind
Tero Isokauppila’s book Healing Mushrooms
Tero Isokauppila’s book Healing Adaptogens
David L. Spahr’s book Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms of New England and Eastern Canada
Merlin Sheldrake’ book Entangled Life
Four Sigmatic

What mushroom would you want to grow first?

Follow North Spore

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Social Media Is Killing Your Indoor Plants with @tannertheplanter

Tue, 7 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sea of information about indoor plants, wondering which tips to trust? You're not alone! Join me on this enlightening episode of "Growing Joy with Plants," where I chat with Tanner, the creative mind behind Tanner the Planter. Tanner's journey into the world of plants began in his childhood in Oregon, and he’s here to share his passion for plant care and how he navigates the challenges of caring for indoor plants in the age of social media.

As Tanner recounts his transition from Oregon to Texas, he reveals how his early love for plants blossomed into a mission to provide realistic plant care advice online. We discuss the conflicting information that often leaves plant parents feeling lost and frustrated. This episode is packed with valuable insights on understanding the basic needs of your plants, such as light and water, to prevent common issues like scale insects and plant pests. Tanner emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations in plant care, helping you avoid the disappointment of plants dying or struggling due to mismanagement.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the impact of social media on the perception of plant care, exploring how idealized images can create unrealistic standards for plant enthusiasts. Tanner's upcoming book aims to demystify plant care, offering practical guidance for joyful living with your indoor plants, encouraging you to embrace the process without the pressure of perfection. We also delve into essential topics like humidity for plants, watering tips, repotting plants, and propagation tips that will elevate your plant parenthood journey.

Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your gardening adventure, this episode is an invitation to cultivate wellness rooted in nature. Tune in to learn how to nurture your indoor plants with confidence and joy!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:54] Meet Tanner the Planter
[04:05] How Tanner’s relationship with plants evolved
[06:51] Where did Tanner get his information while learning?
[08:03] AI, Google, and other confusing sources
[09:31] Why “just put ice on it” is a perfect example of bad internet plant care!
[11:56] How Tanner and Erica built a viral plant brand
[16:46] Manukora
[18:33] Espoma Organic
[22:32] How Tanner approached writing his plant care book!
[24:15] Why you should focus on mastering the basics in plant care
[30:34] How to give yourself more grace when plants die
[32:15] My Hoya heart wedding favors!
[34:12] Why florist planters with no drainage are set up to fail
[35:47] Did millennials change the emotional relationship we have with plants?
[37:27] Why modern plant culture got way too complicated after COVID
[39:41] Why “intuition” is overrated when you’re learning plant care
[40:54] How understanding light makes the rest of plant care easier
[42:03] Skipped generations, lost skills, and why killing plants isn’t your fault
[44:22] How older generations were naturally more connected to plants than we are now
[45:42] What Tanner means by “social media is killing your plants”
[47:45] The cycle of overcorrecting, overspending, and stressing plants to death
[52:21] How much joy even one plant can bring to you
[54:50] Where to find Tanner, Erica, their shop, and his new book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Pre-order Tanner’s new book: For the Love of Houseplants: Caring for & Keeping Plants with Confidence
Growing Joy 327: Growing a Plant Business, A Marriage and A Community of Plant Parents with @mrstannertheplant
Google Scholar
Maria's Espoma Storefront

For Tanner's correct and well-researched plant care advice,

Website
Facebook
TikTok
Instagram
YouTube

Follow Tanner the Planter:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Make Plant Care Less Stressful

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

2026 is the year of ease, joy, and low-maintenance plant care! It’s time that plants make us feel good instead of dread every time we walk past them. Something’s off if plants are stressing you out. So I invited my friend Cassidy Tuttle from Succulents and Sunshine back on the podcast because if there’s anyone who embodies easy plant care, it’s her! We talked about what’s actually happening in our plant lives right now: having too many plants, letting some go, and redefining what our collections look like. Listen in!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:49] Meet my friend Cassidy from Succulents & Sunshine!
[04:50] Cassidy’s latest projects: the Cheerful Plants app and Snappy Pots
[06:28] How her relationship with plants changed over the years
[08:39] What other low-maintenance plants is she experimenting with?
[09:45] Cuttings vs established plants
[11:25] My unexpected reality of growing plants in Florida!
[13:30] Why we now concentrate plants in specific zones of the house
[15:30] Get 3x the antioxidants of regular honey with Manukora!
[17:11] Post-pandemic shifts in plant culture
[19:41] Why whimsical is the 2026 plant trend at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show
[22:11] What does plant number mean to Cassidy?
[25:43] Pros and cons of grouping succulents in arrangements
[28:26] Reducing your plant collection
[31:59] Choosing how you want your collection to grow (fewer big plants vs. many small ones)
[33:59] How Cassidy reworks her watering systems and setups to save time and effort!
[37:03] What tools are worth upgrading for your plant care?
[40:08] Why you should cull your plant accessories too!
[44:02] Where you keep your plants in your house matters
[44:42] Why you should stop buying more plants when you don’t need them
[45:55] Comparison & social media plant envy
[48:15] What is the Cheerful Plants app all about?
[51:11] Why AI plant care apps often fail
[54:06] Breakdown of Cheerful Plants app features!
[56:59] Where to try the app and how the pricing works
[58:18] Where to find Cassidy, her course, and future offerings!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Cassidy's other low-maintenance plant care tips,

Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
Pinterest
Books
Membership

Follow Cassidy:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn which flowers are easiest to grow for beginners!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Flowers and Create Your Own Cut Garden: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

If you ask me, the secret to being everyone’s favorite neighbor or friend is always having a handful of blooms ready to share. And the best way to do that is to grow your own cut flower garden so you can step outside, snip a few stems, and instantly make someone’s day.

In this Best of Growing Joy replay, I’m bringing back one of my favorite conversations with flower farmer and friend Brooklyn Sherri, a Denver-based urban flower farmer and founder of the Cool Choice Plant Studio for kids. We break down cut flower gardening for beginners and talk through the best flowers for a cut flower garden, including easy annuals, reliable perennials, and beginner-friendly blooms that bring beauty, pollinators, and joy into your space.

We also cover the flower gardening basics that make all the difference, like annuals vs. perennials, pinching, deadheading, and how to confidently grow flowers with less fear and more fun.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:02:23] Maria’s garden update
[00:05:40] Who is Brooklyn and how she became a flower farmer
[00:08:31] Why everyone should have flowers in their garden
[00:09:15] Brooklyn shares the personal connection she feels when growing flowers
[00:12:08] Things to consider before growing flowers in your garden
[00:14:06] The best flowers to grow for beginners: sunflowers, zinnias, strawflowers, and more
[00:17:05] A quick recap on annuals vs perennials
[00:18:32] The best perennial flowers to grow for blooms year after year
[00:21:22] How to plan your flower garden so you have blooms all year long
[00:25:48] Brooklyn’s favorite ‘cut and come again’ flowers
[00:27:16] How to make the best soil mix for your flowers
[00:29:30] When to use fertilizers on your flowers
[00:31:04] Where to get the best potting mix, compost and fertilizer for your garden
[00:32:41] Where to order your garlic for this season
[00:35:03] Why you want to fertilize your flowers (and some signs that they need it!)
[00:36:12] Determining how much light your flowers need
[00:37:30] Maria shares her experience with her first garden and reading seed packets
[00:41:17] How to transplant your flowers and harden them off
[00:44:27] How to pinch flowers, what is it for, and when you should do it
[00:48:04] What should you do with your flower’s first bud?
[00:48:25] What is deadheading and how to do it properly
[00:51:03] Brooklyn’s growing tips for peonies
[00:52:43] How to grow flowers from corms and bulbs
[00:57:33] Brooklyn’s top five favorite flowers (and greens) to grow
[00:59:34] A little heartwarming story about Mama Failla and her garden gifts
[01:03:22] Maria shares her newfound interest and joy in flower gardening

Have you ever wanted to start your own cut flower garden?

Follow Brooklyn:

Ya Grandma's Garden and Houseplants on Clubhouse

The Cool Choice

Petal and Herb Farm

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tree History: Finnish Mythology and Tree Worship

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how the trees around you might hold stories of spirits and ancient traditions? Join me, on this enchanting journey into the heart of Finnish mythology, as I chat with the incredibly talented Nina, an illustrator and researcher from Finland. Nina's profound connection to nature, rooted in her upbringing in a forestry village, brings an enlightening perspective on tree worship and the animistic beliefs that celebrate trees as living entities with their own spirits or 'väki.

In this episode, we dive deep into the rich tapestry of Finnish folklore, exploring how the relationship between humans and nature is woven into the very fabric of their mythology. Nina shares fascinating insights into the concept of spirit trees—those special trees that families adopt to symbolize their connection to the land. You’ll learn about the rituals surrounding offerings to these trees, which serve as a beautiful reminder of our bond with the environment.

As plant lovers and plant parents, we often seek ways to connect with nature, and this episode offers practical tips on how to foster relationships with trees in our own communities. From hugging trees to making thoughtful offerings, Nina encourages us to embrace acts of reverence that deepen our connection with the natural world. Plus, we touch on the resurgence of interest in folklore amidst modern environmental concerns, highlighting how these ancient beliefs can guide us in our gardening practices and home-based wellness.

Join us for this joyful living exploration of Finnish mythology and the healing power of nature. Whether you're looking for watering tips, battling plant pests, or simply seeking a mindful gardening experience, this episode is packed with insights to enhance your plant parenthood journey. Tune in to discover how you can cultivate a deeper relationship with the trees around you and bring more joy into your life through holistic plant care.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:26] Meet Niina and her life growing up in Finnish forests!
[03:39] How she went from “weird” folklore kid to researcher
[04:50] Why Finnish mythology centers on “animism” and not on heroic gods
[05:48] A bit of Finnish history!
[07:45] What is the concept of väki?
[09:24] What does Finnish tree mythology represent in daily life?
[11:36] Why spirit trees are seen as guides, healers, and places to seek advice
[12:41] What is the story of "The Giving Tree”?
[13:03] How are these beliefs practiced socially vs individually?
[15:45] Experience rich and antioxidant-packed Manukora honey!
[17:28] Start your seed starting season with Espoma Organic’s premium gardening products!
[19:58] How Finland’s month names followed seasons
[21:54] What are some tree-centered traditions tied to birth, death, and life cycles?
[23:40] Offerings and sacrificial trees!
[25:33] What “tree spirits” are and how they’re imagined in Finnish lore
[27:41] Hunting rituals and making offerings to forest deities
[28:31] Favorite stories about Mielikki and Tapio
[30:07] Is there a resurgence of interest in Finnish folklore and old names?
[31:40] Tree hugging, forest bathing, and tourists seeking Finnish woods!
[32:33] What are some practices to start building your own relationship with trees?
[34:28] Modern rituals: offering, gratitude, and everyday connection
[35:01] What is Niina’s personal relationship with trees?
[36:48] Where to find Niina online and how to get her illustrated tree folklore book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 322: From Plant Care to Nature Therapy: A Solo Heart to Heart
Growing Joy Episode 298: Tree Communication 101: Science, Spirit, and Synchronicity with Rachael of Our Infinite Nature
Little Book Of Finnish Tree Magic (Finnish Mythology With Fairychamber) by Niina Niskanen

To learn more about the vast world of Finnish mythology,

Website
Instagram
All her products
Courses

Follow Niina:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how passive hydroponics works and how to get started!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leca vs Pon: Which Is Better for Indoor Plants? Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

What if you could grow 300+ indoor plants without hauling watering cans to the shower every weekend… and without even dealing with soil?

In this episode of the Best of Growing Joy series, we’re revisiting one of the most amazing approaches to plant care: passive hydroponics, often called semi-hydro. My friend Kay from @inrootedlove is back for what we’re calling Passive Hydro 2.0, and we’re diving into the real-life details of growing plants this way. We talk about LECA vs Pon, root pruning, reservoirs, fertilizer concerns, and what happens when life gets busy and you forget about your plants for a while.

If you’ve experimented with LECA, are curious about Pon, or want to better understand passive hydroponics for indoor plants, Kay is the perfect person to learn from. This conversation will help you troubleshoot common issues, understand the method more deeply, and grow your plants with greater confidence.

In this episode, we learn:

What Kay's Plant Number is
How Kay manages to keep 200+ plants in her home happy and healthy with NO grow lights
The home characteristics Kay looked for when buying a home so her plants could thrive [9:00]
What Maria secretly dreams of for the next home (it's not what you think) [10:00]
What is Semi or Passive Hydro [10:55]
Reasons for why you should try Semi or Passive Hydroponics [12:52]
Kay's experience having small children and a large plant collection [12:37]
Maria's main takeaways from a year of experimenting with semi-hydro: what she is doing great and where she still needs help [13:50]
How do net pots work when roots start to grow out of the pot [15:43]
How to handle orchid roots in LECA [17:0]
How to handle aroid roots in LECA [17:20]
Root pruning [17:50]
The story behind Kay's gorgeous Albo Monstera [19:30]
Is it bad for plants roots to touch the water in a Semi Hydro or Passive Hydro set up? [20:00]
When to repot your plant in semi hydro [21:00]
What happened when Maria forgot about her plants in LECA for 2 months [22:40]
How can you avoid root rot when using semi hydroponics or passive hydroponics? [24:25]
Nutrient troubleshooting deep dive [27:25]
Kay elaborates on how she uses Azomax to manage pests in her large collection [31:19]
What are the signs of a healthy plant in semi hydro [34:30]
What does a healthy root look like in LECA
How dry can you let your reservoir get before you kill your plant [37:16]
How to gage water levels with opaque pots [37:50]
What's an appropriate transition time for a plant to go through transplant shock? [41:26]
Kays product she uses to help plants transition more efficiently [42:15]
LECA VS PON: their differences, pros and cons [43:58]
What PON lechuza is made up of [44:20]
What plants Kay chooses to put PON in over LECA [45:00]
Why Kay doesn't put all her plants in PON [45:01]
What plants Kay plants in PON [45:20]
Why Kay grows anthurium in PON [46:48]
Does a PON set up look different than a LECA set up? [47:26]
Why fertilizing with PON will look very different than fertilizing in LECA
Are there any plant your shouldn't put in passive hydro? [49:10]
How Kay uses PON completely different on her arid plants to help better replicate their natural environments [49:37]
My Raphidophora tetrasperma propagation experiment

Mentioned in our conversation:

Episode 77 Semi or Passive Hydro 101 with Kay! (Maria and Kay's first episode together)
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects, and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Heating Mats for plants (Kays Amazon Affiliate Links to the ones she uses) Large Option and Small Option
Maria's youtube video on her first passive hydro set up
Maria's youtube video on her 8 month passive hydro update
Kay and Maria's youtube video potting up in LECA VS PON tutorial
Kevins Green Pets (Kay's friend who intro'd her to Anthurium's in PON)

Have you experimented with LECA or Pon yet?

Follow Kay

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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What is Forest Bathing: Exploring Forest Therapy with ANFT

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

I'm getting certified as a forest therapy guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)! Every single time, though, people’s response is the same. "Oh my God, that sounds so cool. But what is that?" I get that the words "forest therapy" or "forest bathing" sound vague. Some think it’s like hiking or yoga in the woods, but many can be mistaken.

I spent years focused almost entirely on houseplants. But the deeper I got into plant care, the more I started to see the bigger picture. Plants aren't just decoration, and nature isn't just a backdrop. There's something real happening when we slow down and actually be in it. So I invited Amos Clifford, the founder of ANFT, and the top forest therapy guide and trainer, Nadine Mazzola, to talk about what this practice really is!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:54] Why forest therapy feels so accessible and meaningful to me!
[03:05] What is forest bathing?
[06:32] How did Nadine become a forest therapy guide?
[08:26] The story behind how ANFT was founded!
[12:07] How forest therapy slowly gained traction
[13:13] Why forest bathing is gaining cultural relevance
[15:16] The Productive Garden
[16:37] How everyone carries stories about nature
[17:18] What actually happens during a forest therapy walk?
[21:03] Why participants often experience anxiety at the beginning of forest therapy
[22:01] How forest bathing helps regulate the nervous system
[25:40] My first forest bathing experience and the challenge of slowing down
[26:57] Why having a forest guide matters
[32:00] What’s the science behind forest bathing?
[32:42] Amos on the global boom in forest therapy research
[35:19] Chronic stress and “salaryman” overwork in Japan
[38:59] How forest therapy differs from other wellness practices
[41:32] How forest bathing practices differ across the world
[44:55] Why ANFT guiding focuses on sensory invitations
[48:32] Inside the rigorous forest therapy guide training!
[53:05] The relational philosophy of forest therapy
[55:54] Why is all medicine relational?
[59:05] How forest therapy addresses our disconnection from the world
[1:03:16] Where to find Nadine’s work and her book Forest Bathing With Your Dog
[1:04:18] What is Amos’s next chapter for ANFT and forest therapy?
[01:10:02] Where to find Amos' work, the ANFT global guide map, and Forest Bathing Finder
[01:12:50] How my upcoming digital forest therapy sessions will work!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li
Forest Bathing with Your Dog by Nadine Mazzola
Your Guide to Forest Bathing: Experience the Healing Power of Nature by Amos Clifford
Guide Directory - Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)
Forest Bathing Finder

For a deeper dive into the science of forest bathing,

Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube

Follow Nadine:

Follow Amos:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn
X

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: The Productive Garden by Stephanie Hafferty

Grab The Productive Garden at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy YouTube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to measure light for your indoor plants!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Guide to Measuring Light for Your Indoor Plants: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to part two of our Understanding Natural Light series. We’re bringing this conversation back as part of our Best of Growing Joy episodes because it’s one of the most helpful discussions we’ve ever had about indoor plant lighting.

This episode is a replay of my conversation with Leslie Halleck, a dear plant friend of mine and a horticulture and lighting expert. If you’re a plant parent trying to understand the light in your home, this conversation is a must-listen because the number one mistake I see plant lovers make is misunderstanding their light.

Most people think they have bright light for their plants when they actually don’t. Our eyes are not great at judging how much light indoor plants really receive, which is why so many plants struggle indoors.

So in this episode, we dive into how to measure light for indoor plants. We talk about window directions, the difference between brightness and light volume, and how to use simple tools like a light meter to understand what your plants are actually experiencing. We also break down why plants think about light in energy or calories, not just how bright a room feels to us.

And make sure you grab the free Understanding Natural Light download that goes with this series. It walks you step by step through how to measure light in your home so you can stop guessing and start choosing the right plants for your space.

In this episode, we learn:

What the most important colors of light are for growing plants
How to use a free app to get a better understanding of your indoor lighting environment
What is the difference between LUX, Footcandles and PAR
What micromoles are
What DLI (Daily Light Intergral) is
The results of my homework and how many “aha” moments I had about the ACTUAL light in my apartment
How drastic the difference in light is within only a few feet from your window
What area of your apartment is probably low light that you never knew about
Whether or not you can put plants in a bathroom with no windows
Whether or not you can put plants in an office with no windows
Citrus under lights, pests

Mentioned in our conversation:

Lux Light Meter
PAR meter
Soltech Solution Aspect Light (Use code bloom15 for 15% off!)
Free Understanding Natural Light Download
Leslie’s Book, Gardening Under Lights; The Complete Guide for Indoor Growers

Do you actually know how much light your plants are getting?

Follow Leslie

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2026 Garden and Houseplant Trends: My Main Takeaways from Northwest Flower and Garden Festival

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

This is my third year attending the Northwest Flower and Garden Show in Seattle, and I come back with all the plant tea! Every year, this festival just keeps getting better. The only way I can describe what it feels like is that I walked into a convention center and forgot I was in one. In front of me, there were 20 full garden landscapes installed on the concrete floor. The lights are dimmed, and you can hear birdsongs and smell mulch and something floral. I gave a talk on my plant parent personalities and co-hosted the House of Plants pop-up with Costa Farms. But I always leave with more than I came for because every year, the garden installs and what vendors are selling tells me something real about where gardening and houseplants are headed. So here are my main takeaways from the 2026 Northwest Flower and Garden Festival!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:05] What the Northwest Flower & Garden Show (Festival) is
[05:15] How the display gardens work!
[06:11] What are the biggest 2026 garden trends?
[07:50] My 3 favorite whimsical garden installs!
[14:09] Why you should do whimsy/storytelling in your own gardens!
[14:32] What are the newest houseplant trends in 2026?
[16:36] Why plant parents are craving low-maintenance plants
[18:14] How Espoma Organic helped bring me to the NWFG!
[20:41] Ripe Tomato Revolution by Frank Hyman
[22:45] Krystal (Plantswithkrystal) on diverse plants, terrariums, and ponds
[24:48] Justin (Costa Farms) on variegation trends and golden monstera
[25:20] What’s the one thing plant parents still get wrong?
[26:42] Zach (Soltech) on bold statement plants and grow lights
[30:04] Kamili (Plantblerd) on evergreen favorites and the lure of “unicorn plants”
[32:48] Farmer Nick on variegation overload and the limits of “rare plant” culture
[37:18] Cassidy (Succulents and Sunshine) on why rigid watering schedules don’t work
[41:52] Claudia (In the Garden with Claudia) on houseplant energy at a gardening show

Mentioned in our conversation:

Northwest Flower & Garden Festival
Costa Farms
Relish Gardens’ The Jewel Box: A Moment Preserved
West Seattle Nursery’s Where Stories Take Root
Hello Garden Designs’ The Garden Maker’s Atelier
Krystal @plantswithkrystal: Website | Instagram
Justin from Costa Farms: Website | Instagram
Zach from Soltech: Website | Instagram
Kamili Bell Hill @plantblerd: Instagram
Nick Cutsumpas @farmernick: Website | Instagram
Cassidy @succulentsandsunshine: Website | Instagram
Claudia @inthegardenwithclaudia: Instagram

For my favorite plant installs at the NWFGS 2026,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: Ripe Tomato Revolution by Frank Hyman

Grab Ripe Tomato Revolutionat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to measure the natural light in your home!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Natural Light for Indoor Plants: What Plant Parents Get Wrong: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 5 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Natural light for indoor plants is one of the most misunderstood parts of plant care. Most plant parents think their homes are bright enough for houseplants… but the truth is, we often overestimate how much light our plants are actually getting.

So we all know that the concept of bright indirect light is kind of a disaster. It’s one of the most confusing things in indoor plant care, and most plant parents wildly overestimate how much light they have in their homes.

That’s exactly why I’m so excited to bring back this two-part series on natural light for indoor plants from the Best of Growing Joy collection.

In this episode, I’m joined by my dear friend, horticulturist and lighting expert Leslie Halleck, author of Gardening Under Lights, one of the best resources for understanding grow lights and indoor plant lighting. But before we even talk about grow lights, we need to understand something even more fundamental: how light actually works for plants.

In this conversation, Leslie and I get into the nitty-gritty of what light really means for houseplants, why the phrase “bright indirect light” causes so much confusion for plant parents, and how to actually measure light for your plants at home.

There’s also a free download in the show notes that walks you through three days of measuring the natural light in your home, so you can finally understand what your plants are really getting.

In this episode, we learn:

How Leslie came to be the lighting expert she is now
Measuring and understanding NATURAL light 101
The difference between the volume of light vs the brightness of light
What PAR is and why it is important for understand our natural light in our apartments
The most brilliant metaphor for light that will make even the science inept person understand light, photons and photosynthesis
How the direction your window faces affects the amount of light in your apartment, and a good rule of thumb to live by
What the heck “bright indirect light’ actually is!
Practical steps to understanding “bright indirect light” for your specific surrounding
How many feet away from your windowsill does “bright light” turn to “medium light” and then turn to “low light”
Why we overwater our plants (spoiler alert… it’s often because of your lighting conditions)
If sunbeams that move throughout your apartments make a different for your plants
Why experimenting with plant placement and light is crucial

Mentioned in our conversation:

Soltech (Use code bloom15 for 15% off!)
Gardening Under Lights; The Complete Guide for Indoor Growers

Are you sure your plants are actually getting enough light?

Follow Leslie

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Low Maintenance Gardening with Continuous Vegetable Gardening

Tue, 3 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Are you tired of the boom-and-bust cycle of traditional gardening? Imagine a world where your garden is a source of joy and sustenance all year round! Join me, in this enlightening episode of Growing Joy with Plants, where I chat with the incredibly knowledgeable gardening expert, Charlie Nardozzi. Together, we dive deep into the realm of low maintenance gardening and explore innovative techniques that not only simplify your gardening experience but also promote sustainable practices.

Charlie takes us on a journey through his childhood, sharing his cherished memories of gardening with his Italian grandparents. His passion for plants blossomed into a successful career as a horticulturist and author, and today, he’s here to help us shift our gardening mindset. Forget the traditional methods that often lead to plants dying or battling plant pests; it's time to embrace low maintenance gardening strategies that yield continuous harvests!

In this episode, we discuss the concept of a continuous vegetable garden that allows you to enjoy fresh produce throughout the growing season. Charlie introduces us to the wonders of perennial vegetables and self-sowing plants, which can transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem with minimal effort. We also touch on the ecological benefits of diverse planting, ensuring that your garden not only flourishes but also contributes positively to the environment.

Throughout our conversation, Charlie shares invaluable tips on mindful gardening, including how to effectively manage scale insects, rid of gnats, and tackle common plant diseases. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your journey into home-based wellness, this episode is packed with practical advice on watering tips, humidity for plants, and propagation tips that will elevate your gardening game.

So, if you're ready to cultivate a joyful living space filled with abundant blooms and delicious harvests, tune in to this episode of Growing Joy with Plants! Let’s dig into the world of low maintenance gardening together!

In this episode, we learn:low

[01:27] How Charlie Nardozzi became a continuous vegetable garden expert
[04:56] What “continuous gardening” really solves
[05:50] What are self-sowing vegetables?
[07:51] How I used basil for succession planting!
[08:28] Manually scattering seeds vs true self-sowing
[09:40] What perennial edibles are most gardeners overlooking?
[13:00] Growing wine cap mushrooms as a perennial!
[14:08] What mulch and organic matter do wine caps need to fruit?
[14:49] Manukora
[16:32] Other ways to grow mushrooms at home!
[17:02] How your hardiness zone changes what counts as a perennial
[18:28] What are some of the best self-sowing edibles to start with?
[19:34] When to let volunteer tomatoes grow and when to pull them
[20:26] Where seed saving and self-sowing overlap
[22:10] What Charlie’s garden actually looks like now
[23:19] No-dig raised beds and mimicking nature for less work
[24:08] What are Charlie’s favorite plant combinations for a bed?
[26:14] Can you grow a mostly perennial food garden?
[27:22] Why Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes) are an underrated perennial staple
[29:05] Making garlic and potatoes “perennial” through selective saving
[30:36] Practical tips for saving seeds, curing garlic, and overwintering tubers
[32:16] Why labeling matters and how to use mystery seeds
[32:39] Creating a polyculture bed
[33:43] Where to find Charlie, his book, and what he's got coming up!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Charlie’s gardening books mentioned:
- The Continuous Vegetable Garden
- The Complete Guide to No-Dig Gardening

For Charlie's low-maintenance gardening guide,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
Pinterest
Other books
Webinars

Follow Charlie:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for simple, science-backed ways to bring nature into your office!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Biophilic Design for Plant Parents: Indoor Plants for Wellness at Work: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Hands down, without a doubt, incorporating indoor plants into my office has been the single best thing I’ve done for my mental health during the workday. And at this point, plant friends, if you or someone you love is working without plants in the workplace, we need to talk.

Because this is not just about aesthetics.

This is about biophilic design and workplace wellness. It is about the science that proves how plants and productivity are connected. Study after study shows that having office plants can reduce stress, increase focus, support creativity, and help regulate mood. Bringing nature indoors is not a trend. It is a practical, research-backed way to support your well-being while you work.

We are more screen addicted than ever. Most of us spend the majority of our day indoors, in offices or at home, staring at computers. That constant directed attention leads to fatigue.

So I’m bringing back an episode from the archives of Growing Joy Best Of series, recorded during the pandemic when many of us were redesigning our work-from-home spaces. And it feels even more relevant now. Creating a workspace filled with indoor plants for office wellness is one of the simplest ways to practice home-based wellness and bring small moments of calm into your day.

Most of the world spends the majority of their life at work. So in today’s episode, I’m sharing the science behind biophilic design, the connection between plants and productivity, and simple strategies to help plant parents and plant lovers transform their workspace into something that feels energizing, restorative, and joy-filled.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:07] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on #plantywfh spaces
[04:39] Check out Maria’s Planty WFH space tour
[05:03] What to expect from this episode on work from home setups and biophilic design
[06:50] The AMAZING and unbelievable benefits of engaging with plants and biophilic design, according to 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design
[07:27] What is biophilia, the idea behind it, and the important figures behind this wonderful hypothesis
[09:24] The psychological role of plants in our creativity
[10:09] How being around nature and scenery affects patient recovery, as studied by Dr. Ulrich in 1972 to 1981
[11:13] A review of direct versus involuntary attention based on studies by Stephen R. Kellert and Rachel Kaplan
[13:41] Biophilic Pattern #1: Visual Connection with Nature
[13:54] Planty WFH Tip #1: Put your desk near a window
[14:15] Planty WFH Tip #2: Put plants within the eyeline of your desk
[14:33] Planty WFH Tip #3: Have a green wall in your office
[14:56] Planty WFH Tip #4: If you can’t have real plants, pictures of plants will do!
[15:09] Biophilic Pattern #2: Non-Visual Connection with Nature
[15:26] Planty WFH Tip #5: Play nature sounds like the one-square inch forest silence in the Olympic National Park, bird songs, or waves
[16:36] Planty WFH Tip #6: Have different plant scents nearby, or you can use a diffuser like Maria!)
[16:53] Biophilic Pattern #3: Non-Rhythmic Sensory Stimuli
[17:09] Planty WFH Tip #7: Set up bird feeders or pollinator-attracting plants, or take care of rare-blooming plants for a nice surprise
[17:39] Biophilic Pattern #4: Thermal and Air Flow Variability
[17:59] Biophilic Pattern #5: Presence of Water
[18:07] Planty WFH Tip #8: It’s your humidifier’s time to shine! Maybe a tiny fancy plug-in fountain?
[18:40] Biophilic Pattern #6: Dynamic and Diffuse Light
[18:52] Planty WFH Tip #9: Install a grow light with a timer, and have a more sustainable work hours setup!
[19:12] Planty WFH Tip #10: Reduce your blue light intake and light candles after a long day of work
[19:33] Biophilic Pattern #7: Connection with Natural Systems
[19:47] Biophilic Pattern #8: Biomorphic Forms and Patterns
[19:56] Did you know there are interesting and precise angles in nature?
[20:35] Biophilic Pattern #9: Material Connection with Nature
[21:07] Planty WFH Tip #11: Add accents in your home office like wood grains, fossil textures, and bamboo rattans
[21:30] Planty WFH Tip #12: Try a natural color palette of greens and browns
[21:50] How Maria and Billy managed their storage during their move
[24:52] Biophilic Pattern #10: Prospect
[25:04] Why it’s important to change the focus of your eyes every once in a while
[25:18] Biophilic Pattern #11: Refuge
[25:19] Why Maria recommends a planty screen-free space
[26:10] Biophilic Patterns #12: Mystery and #13: Risk and Peril
[26:20] The biggest rule of thumb of biophilic designs for Maria
[27:06] If you can’t have real plants, download the Bloom and Grow Radio’s free and gorgeous watercolor of prickly pear cactus in various states of bloom!
[28:03] Planty WFH Tip #13: Envelop your space in plants (if you can!)
[28:32] Maria’s planty WFH tips and ideas based on her own WFH setup
[30:04] The best plants for low-light home offices
[31:13] Are you blessed with a high-light office situation? Maria recommends these plants that love abundant light
[31:36] Planty WFH Tip #14: Install grow lights to incorporate more plants
[32:44] Planty WFH Tip #15: Tiny space? Go vertical!
[34:21] Maria’s biggest takeaways from 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design and her top advice on #plantyWFH setups
[36:26] Finding joy and awe in your #plantyWFH as a small break from your work day

Mentioned in our conversation:

Check out the full blog post here!
Get the free download with 9 Tips for Greening Up Your Work From Home Office Space
Check out Maria's #plantywfh office tour on youtube!
Growing Joy YouTube video Houseplant Tour: My Restorative Plant Corner // Why Plant Care Truly is Self Care
Growing Joy Episode 108: How To Use Plants To Create Restorative Environments With Anne Meore From NYBG
14 Patterns of Biophilic Design by William Browning, Catherine Ryan, and Joseph Clancy
Hoh Rainforest Audio
Biophilia by Edward O. Wilson
Frederick Law Olmsted
View Through a Window May Influence Recovery from Surgery by Roger Ulrich
Stephen R. Kellert
Attention Restoration Theory: Exploring the Role of Soft Fascination and Mental Bandwidth by Rachel Kaplan
What Was That Like Podcast by Scott Johnson
Maria's planty wfh set up on IG

If you could redesign your workspace using biophilic design, what would you add first?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

I share it in the show notes and blog.

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I'm Pregnant After Loss: Exploring Seasons of Grief and Joy

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I’ve been waiting a very long time to write these words. I’m pregnant!!! And we’re having a baby boy! His nickname is Polpettino (which means ‘little meatball’ in Italian) because my husband Billy is fourth-generation Irish, and this baby is going to come out the most Irish kid you've ever met, so he's getting to be Italian while he's still in there. And we love him so much already. But before we get to the joy, I need to take you through the full story. Because this pregnancy didn't just happen. It was fought for. It was grieved for. It’s pregnancy after loss, after two years of grief, fear, therapy, IVF, and learning how to hold joy and sorrow in the same body. Welcome to my pregnancy journey!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:39] OMG, Plant friends, I’m pregnant with a baby boy!
[05:04] How I moved through seasons of grief, waiting, and hope
[06:26] Fear, numbness, and how this episode serves as my exposure therapy
[07:49] Sharing your personal stories of grief with me
[09:01] Why I reject the polished version of pregnancy that social media portrays
[10:08] My first pregnancy and a missed miscarriage before Christmas
[15:23] Manukora
[16:59] Espoma Organic
[19:12] My second pregnancy and how that loss hit me differently
[20:17] Why I think nature is brutal
[21:10] How we decided to move forward with IVF!
[21:36] How I found out I had endometritis
[23:22] How do you treat endometritis? (Please share this with every woman in your circle!)
[24:30] The patience and waiting for the IVF process itself
[26:07] What my fears are while pregnant with my third child
[28:47] My first trimester and what that meant for my work and identity
[29:27] How I still ran Growing Joy while sick
[31:11] Coming out of winter!! Spring is here! I'm finally ready to plan for our future <3
[32:11] Growing Joy redefined and how I imagine motherhood inside this plant community
[33:27] The micro and macro of seasons and how time reshapes everything
[34:16] Four Christmases later…
[36:15] What's coming next? Gender reveal, house renovation, and what Growing Joy means now!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Submission form for your own "Winter"
Growing Joy Episode 294: I Found 22 Ducklings on My Roof: A Nature-Curious Story of Trust and Transformation

For the full story of my pregnancy journey,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to find your zone and plan your garden with confidence!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Understanding Frost Dates: Beginner Gardening Guide

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

When I first started gardening, the second someone mentioned hardiness zones or frost dates, my eyes would immediately glaze over.

I had no idea what my USDA hardiness zone was. I didn’t know how to find my last frost date. I didn’t understand what “Zone 6B” or “Zone 10A” even meant for my plants. I had lived in the same place my entire life and somehow never once looked at a zone map. I didn’t think it mattered.

Now, after years of gardening (and now living in South Florida in zone 10B), my hardiness zone and frost dates are second nature to me. But whenever I talk to new gardeners and say, “Oh, I’m in zone 10B,” I see that same glazed-over look. And I get it. Words like USDA hardiness zone, frost dates, and microclimates sound technical and overwhelming. They’re not exactly things we learned in school.

But understanding your gardening climate is one of the most important things you can do as a plant parent.

Knowing your hardiness zone tells you what plants can survive your winters. Knowing your first and last frost dates helps you time your seed starting and planting correctly. And understanding microclimates can help you push your zone just enough to grow something you didn’t think was possible.

So in this Best of Growing Joy replay, I’m bringing back my conversation with Rochelle Greayer of Pith + Vigor. This episode was recorded when I had just moved to the Catskills and was planning my very first outdoor garden. We break down what hardiness zones actually mean, how to find your frost dates, what those little A and B letters stand for, and how to use all of it to confidently plan your first garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:46] What Maria has in store for fellow novice gardeners like her this summer!
[05:40] How Rochelle went from flying aircraft and satellites to a full-time garden designer
[08:34] What Rochelle loves about garden design—and Maria’s luxury spa biophilic experience
[10:00] The many careers you can get into if you want to pursue a plant profession
[11:26] Do plants really clean the air in your apartment? Maria discusses this hot topic circulating in the plant community
[13:10] The topics that Maria wants to understand about outdoor gardens
[13:49] What are hardiness zones? What are the pros and cons of the USDA Hardiness Zones?
[17:23] The difference between the USDA hardiness zones and the American Horticultural Society (AHS) Heat Zones
[18:39] What does a plant’s hardiness mean?
[19:20] Once you know your hardiness zone, how do you apply that information to your outdoor garden?
[21:11] Does hardiness matter for annual plants?
[21:58] How do frost dates differ from hardiness zones? What are frost dates actually for?
[23:10] Why it is important to know frost dates—beware of last frost!
[25:54] What’s more important between hardiness zone and frost dates?
[29:48] How to plan your garden with your hardiness zone and frost dates information
[31:02] Frost date hack: you can extend your growing season inside!
[32:31] Understanding how a plant supports itself during growing season
[35:06] What are the Sunset climate zones?
[36:58] Listener question #1: How much does microclimate affect your predicted garden zones? What is a microclimate?
[39:31] How do you know if you have a microclimate in the garden?
[41:06] Listener question #2: What methods can be used to push gardening zones, if a plant is hardy just outside your gardening zone?
[41:43] Why it’s important to pay attention to the environments in your garden
[44:44] Listener question #3: Have the zones changed because of climate change?
[46:49] Rochelle’s favorite piece of advice for those who want to try out garden design
[48:57] Rochelle’s gardening course for homeowners looking into improving their gardens
[50:26] The cool history behind Pith + Vigor’s name
[53:23] Maria’s plans for this seed season and how she’s applied this conversation to her garden planning

Mentioned in our conversation:

What’s your USDA hardiness zone, and what are you planting this season?

Follow Rochelle

Classes

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

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Check out the full show notes and blog here for Erika's secret!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Growing a Plant Business, A Marriage and A Community of Plant Parents with @mrstannertheplanter

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a passion for plants into a thriving business? Join me as I sit down with Erika, the incredible wife of Tanner the Planter, to explore their inspiring journey in the plant business. From their unexpected meeting during a lunch break to co-owning the flourishing plant shop, Famous in Oregon, which opened its doors during the pandemic, Erika shares the heartfelt story behind their love and entrepreneurial spirit. This episode is packed with insights on how to cultivate joy and wellness through plants, and you won't want to miss it!

Erika opens up about the challenges they faced transitioning from separate careers in education and party rentals to becoming plant business partners. With a focus on community and customer relationships, she emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and valuing their time as they navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Together, they balance their strengths—Erika shines in customer care while Tanner excels in operations—creating a harmonious dynamic that fuels their passion for plants.

Throughout our conversation, we also touch on practical topics that every plant parent can benefit from, including watering tips, how to get rid of gnats, and the best strategies for repotting plants. Plus, we dive into the world of plant pests, discussing how to deal with scale insects and other plant diseases that can threaten your beloved greens. Erica even shares some of their exciting future plans, including a new product line and Tanner's upcoming book, which promises to be a must-read for plant lovers everywhere.

This episode is a joyful exploration of love, partnership, and the healing power of nature. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your journey into the world of gardening, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your favorite plant, settle in, and let's grow some joy together!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:30] Meet Erika from Tanner the Planter and Famous in Oregon!
[05:49] How did Erika and Tanner first meet and start dating?
[07:08] Erika’s background in education and administration
[11:21] Erika’s first experience with entrepreneurship
[13:36] How their plant business actually runs today (storefront, live sales, shipping center)
[15:15] The Wild & Free Garden
[17:14] Live selling plant shop
[21:02] Where did the name "Famous in Oregon" actually come from?
[23:50] How did they start and scale content to millions of followers?
[27:55] Turning customer data points into education, content, and book!
[29:22] How Erika and Tanner's strengths/weaknesses help the business
[31:27] The team that runs the day-to-day operations
[33:23] How did their plant shop look for the first two years?
[35:01] Brick-and-mortar slowing down (and why online live sales now carry the business)
[37:43] What do sourcing plants, freight logistics, and dealing with growers look like?
[42:50] Steve's Leaves as their first supplier!
[45:10] What are some of their struggles? (QuickBooks, payroll, HR, legal, taxes)
[47:16] What makes the plant shop business worth it?
[48:26] What is their vision for the future of the business?
[49:19] Why they're turning down reality TV opportunities
[50:03] What makes their partnership successful?
[52:30] Pilates, health, and evolving together beyond the business
[57:01] Erika’s advice for couples working together!
[58:56] As the author's wife, what was it like experiencing Tanner's book launch?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Ever wonder what makes a successful plant business?

Follow Erika and Tanner:

Website
Facebook
TikTok
Instagram
YouTube

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: The Wild & Free Garden by Stephanie Rose

Grab The Wild & Free Garden at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for a beginner-friendly breakdown of LECA, reservoirs, and more!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Hydroponic Growing for Indoor Plants: A Beginner’s Guide for Plant Parents

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever been scrolling Instagram before and seen a picture where it looks like plants are planted in Cocoa Puffs, like little brown balls, or gravel? Maybe as you've been scrolling, you've seen the words semi-hydroponics, passive hydroponics, or LECA.

Well, today’s episode is a deep dive into the art of growing plants hydroponically, but specifically through semi-hydroponics, a popular soil-free growing method that uses an inorganic growing medium instead of traditional potting mix.

We'll dive into what that means in the episode. This is a way-back conversation with Kay from @inrootedlove as part of the best of Growing Joy series because more and more plant parents are becoming curious about hydroponic growing for their houseplants, and I thought this would be a really interesting discussion to revisit for anyone considering their own transition away from soil.

I’ll also share a little bit about my personal experience growing in LECA at the end of this episode. It’s been several years since I recorded this interview, and I’ve had a long semi-hydroponics journey since then, so I’ll give you an honest update before we wrap.

In this episode, we learn:

What is “semi-hydro” aka “passive hydroponics”?
How Kay became the LECA Plant Lady she is today
How Semi-Hydro works
What are LECA balls
What materials do you need to have a LECA setup?
How does a beginner make their first LECA setup
How expensive is this hobby?
How to fertilize
What products Kay uses in her home
Pest management for a semi-hydro setup

Mentioned in our conversation:

Are you curious if semi-hydro (aka passive hydroponics) could simplify your plant care routine?

Follow Kay

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Buy Nothing Garden: 4 Ways To Build a Dream Garden for No or Low Cost

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to transform your garden into a thriving sanctuary without breaking the bank? Join me, as I chat with the incredible Stephanie Rose, also known as the Garden Lady. Stephanie's journey into gardening began during a challenging time in her life, marked by illness and isolation. Her latest book, "The Wild and Free Garden," is a testament to her philosophy of mindful gardening—a perfect fit for those looking to create a buy nothing garden that flourishes with minimal financial investment. Together, we explore how a few seeds and a lot of passion can lead to a garden that not only beautifies your space but also nurtures your mental health and overall well-being.

Stephanie shares her invaluable insights on cultivating a joyful living space through plants, emphasizing a low-cost approach that encourages plant lovers and plant parents alike to embrace a more relaxed and intuitive gardening style. We delve into the therapeutic benefits of gardening, discussing how it can serve as a powerful tool for healing in nature. Whether you're struggling with plant pests, plant diseases, or simply trying to keep your plants thriving, Stephanie's wisdom is bound to resonate with you.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the importance of community in gardening. Discover how local resources like seed libraries and community gardens can enhance your gardening experience and how bartering and sharing economies can help you build a supportive network of fellow plant enthusiasts. Stephanie encourages listeners to connect with their local gardening communities, explore grants for neighborhood gardening projects, and ultimately foster deeper connections that cultivate a sense of belonging.

Join us as we dive into practical tips on dealing with scale insects, getting rid of gnats, and understanding humidity for plants. Whether you're looking for watering tips, repotting advice, or propagation tips, this episode is packed with actionable insights that every plant parent will appreciate

In this episode, we learn:

[01:50] Join my Growing Joy in 2026 masterclass!
[03:01] Meet Stephanie Rose!
[08:37] Why do many people misunderstand the accessibility of gardening?
[11:00] What does “wild and free gardening” mean?
[12:15] Finding patio pavers on Craigslist and building a garden backward
[13:49] How leaf color, size, and growth habits teach garden placement
[14:47] Manukora Honey
[16:29] Espoma Organic
[18:20] Houseplant control vs. outdoor gardening
[19:53] How Buy Nothing gardening is a response to waste culture
[23:06] How personalization creates emotional attachment to spaces
[24:33] What is the modern day sharing economy?
[25:23] Buy Nothing community, plant swaps, and hyper-local abundance
[29:43] Why Stephanie’s gardening book goes far beyond thrifted junk projects
[33:28] Reclaimed greenhouses and patience as a design principle
[34:43] How does the concept of bartering apply to gardening?
[36:47] How bartering helped me make a lifelong friend
[39:06] How grants can fund personal and community garden projects
[41:40] How to search for funding for your garden!
[43:46] Finding real-life plant communities beyond social media
[48:10] Where to find Stephanie, her book, newsletter, and resources!

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Wild & Free Garden by Stephanie Rose
Crescent Garden
Neighbourhood Small Grants
Nextdoor
Bunz
Growing Joy 246: What is Regenerative Gardening and Permaculture? with Stephanie Rose of Garden Therapy

For Stephanie's buy-nothing gardening tips,

Follow Stephanie:

Website
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
YouTube
X

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the ultimate beginner-friendly seed starting guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ultimate Begonia Care Guide for Indoor Plant Parents: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 5 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

So what if instead of feeling mysterious, kind of weird, and sometimes dramatic, begonia care was actually much simpler than it seems? Begonias are such a beautiful and diverse family of plants, with so many stunning varieties, yet they’re often misunderstood. While they can be disappointing for some plant parents, the truth is that indoor begonia care can be surprisingly easy when you understand what they need.

That's why I am bringing a very old episode of Growing Joy back from the archives in this best of Growing Joy series where we are joined by Marc Hachadourian, otherwise known as @orchidmark. And he is the head honcho at New York Botanical Garden.

Marc joined me to break down why Begonias look the way they do, where they come from, and how we can keep them thriving indoors. From Angel Wings to Rex Begonias, this conversation covers practical watering tips, the importance of humidity for plants, and how small adjustments in holistic plant care can help plant lovers trade begonia fear for confidence and curiosity. And honestly, it’s making me want to go out and buy another angel wing polka dot begonia right this very minute!

In this episode, we learn:

Marc's love of Begonias
The Begonias (and other plants) that were featured in American Gothic
The wide variety of Begonias available to plant parents
Marc's famous Houseplant Hospital and Humidity Hacks
General care guidelines for light, soil, and watering of Begonias
Where Begonias grow in the natural world
Troubleshooting answers: how to deal with leggy Begonias and water damage!

Mentioned in our conversation:

What seed have you always wanted to grow but felt too intimidated to try?

Follow NYBG

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

here are the full show notes and blog for Dr Dreher's expert advice.

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tending to Hope and Healing in Nature

Tue, 3 Feb 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever felt the weight of the world lift as you dig your hands into the soil? Join me, in today's episode of "Growing Joy with Plants" as I sit down with the incredible Diane Dreher, a professor emeritus and author whose journey through gardening has shaped her understanding of healing in nature. With a passion for plants that was nurtured by her grandfather, Diane shares her inspiring story of how she has cultivated her love for gardening despite the challenges of a transient lifestyle, thanks to her father's Air Force career. Together, we explore the profound connection between nature, gardening, and personal well-being, revealing how healing in nature can transform our mental health and foster a sense of community.

Throughout our conversation, Diane emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of engaging with the outdoors, highlighting how simple acts like mindful gardening can alleviate stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. Her research in positive psychology introduces us to the empowering concept of 'active hope,' which encourages us to set goals and create pathways to achieve them. We discuss the alarming disconnection from nature and each other, a problem that has only grown with our reliance on technology, and how this contributes to feelings of isolation among plant parents.

Diane also shares insights from her latest book, "Pathways to Inner Peace," which offers various strategies for reconnecting with nature and fostering a deeper sense of belonging and purpose. Through personal anecdotes and scientific studies, we illustrate the healing power of nature, community, and mindfulness, encouraging listeners to cultivate connections that not only enhance their well-being but also inspire hope. Whether you’re struggling with plant pests, looking for watering tips, or seeking advice on repotting plants, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone on their plant parenthood journey.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of holistic plant care, joyful living, and the essential role that plants play in our mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to enrich their home-based wellness routine through the healing in nature. Tune in now, and let’s grow joy together!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:59] Join my 2026 Growing Joy live community experience!
[03:04] Meet Dr. Diane Dreher (hope researcher, positive psychology coach, and nature scholar)
[05:54] What’s the difference between wishing and active hope
[07:15] How doom-scrolling quietly erodes motivation and creativity
[08:04] Why hopelessness is really a symptom of disconnection
[09:28] The science behind nature walks and creative thinking
[12:00] Healing through nature is free and still underused!
[13:15] Lao Tzu, water, bamboo, and the strength of flexibility
[14:13] How Daoist philosophy shaped modern psychology and leadership
[14:54] What is forest bathing?
[15:34] The Continuous Vegetable Garden by Charlie Nardozzi
[17:31] The hospital window study that changed how we view healing
[18:18] Forest medicine, immunity, and cancer-fighting cells
[20:30] Why Pathways to Inner Peace was written
[20:49] How smartphones reshaped anxiety, loneliness, and attention
[22:50] Habits to break to reconnect with nature
[27:42] Why joy and longevity are tied to purpose
[27:59] How awe regulates the nervous system and expands hope
[30:16] Why awe and hope live in the same emotional space
[31:52] Simple ways to cultivate awe and connection daily!
[32:04] #1 Mindful presence
[32:47] #2 Mindful breathing
[34:52] Why cooking with herbs is a collaboration with nature
[36:16] The biophilia hypothesis and mirrored growth
[37:46] Community as medicine for modern isolation
[38:10] Meditation, compassion, and quieting the inner critic
[41:27] A pivotal U-turn that changed Diane’s life path
[45:01] Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset in real life
[45:18] Where to find Diane online

Mentioned in our conversation:

Inner Gardening: A Seasonal Path to Inner Peace by Diane Dreher
Pathways to Inner Peace by Diane Dreher
Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner
Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li
Growing Joy Episode 322: From Plant Care to Nature Therapy: A Solo Heart to Heart
Join my 2026 Growing Joy live community experience

If you're needing a little more hope and light in your life,

Follow Diane:

Website
Facebook
LinkedIn
Bsky
Books
Meditations

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: The Continuous Vegetable Garden by Charlie Nardozzi

Grab The Continuous Vegetable Gardenat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the ultimate beginner-friendly seed starting guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Ultimate Seed Starting Guide: Everything You Need to Know For Starting Seeds Indoors: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you’re new to gardening, seed starting indoors can feel scary and overwhelming. I know it did for me. For a long time, I stuck to buying seedlings because starting seeds felt like too much. The equipment, the space, the timing, the fear of doing it wrong. All of it can feel intimidating, especially for new plant parents.

In today’s episode, we’re bringing back a favorite from the Growing Joy archives all about starting seeds indoors for beginners, featuring the ultimate seed-starting expert, Joe Lamp’l of joegardener.com. Joe is a longtime garden mentor and friend of mine, and in this conversation, he completely demystifies seed starting basics. We break down the why behind the how, making seed starting feel approachable, doable, and genuinely fun.

Some of the most flavorful tomatoes I’ve ever grown came from seed. When you grow vegetables from seed, you’re not limited to what’s available at the garden center. You get access to incredible varieties you’ll never find as seedlings, and that’s one of the most rewarding parts of gardening.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00:10] Maria shares her favorite experiences and benefits of seed starting
[00:02:11] Where to get the best seeds for your spring and summer gardens this year
[00:06:20] Joe demystifies seed starting and why you shouldn’t be nervous about starting your own garden!
[00:07:24] What Joe does for a living and where you can check out for more of his gardening tips
[00:09:39] Why Joe emphasizes understanding the why’s of gardening and plant parenthood
[00:10:17] Maria shares her own experience with growing seeds and why she didn’t give it a ‘real shot’ prior
[00:11:12] Joe talks about the rewarding feeling of starting from a seed versus seedling
[00:12:43] The sense of ownership that seed starting instills in us
[00:13:31] How growing your own garden expands your food choices
[00:14:26] What Maria learned about seed starting versus seedlings when she grew her own tomatoes
[00:16:47] Joe answers the question we’re all thinking about: how much do we need for a successful seed starting setup?
[00:16:56] Breaking down the materials, the costs, the alternatives, and the conditions you need for seed starting
[00:22:14] What kind of soil is ideal for seed starting?
[00:24:10] Joe’s recommendations for seed tray sizes, compartment depth, and seed tray materials
[00:28:06] When is the best time to start on your seeds? What is the most important date you need to know when growing your own seeds?
[00:30:20] Where Maria is sourcing her seeds from for this gardening season
[00:33:55] Do seeds have an expiration date? Joe emphasizes the importance of buying seeds from a good and established company
[00:35:40] Do we need to be looking out for non-GMO seeds?
[00:36:19] Is it possible to grow the seed of a fruit that you just ate? Joe discusses the difference between hybrid and open pollinated non-hybrid
[00:38:17] Now that you’ve got your seed starting setup, how do you put your seeds in the soil?
[00:39:01] What is the ideal light situation for seed starting?
[00:39:38] The step-by-step process of seed starting, what you should expect when you’ve planted your seeds, and the most intensive part of the process according to Joe
[00:43:10] The process of thinning and why Maria finds it SO frustrating
[00:45:38] Is there a right and only way to germinate your seeds? For Maria’s mom, a damp towel in a Ziploc bag is the way to go
[00:46:30] How to check if your seeds are still good
[00:47:50] How does cold stratification work and why do some plants need it? Joe explains the what’s, the why’s, and the how’s of this process
[00:49:46] What you can learn from Joe’s Master Seed Starting class
[00:50:38] The importance of building an engaged and active community of seed starters
[00:54:57] An exciting offer from Joe and Maria on how to be a better seed starter!
[00:57:41] What Maria is excited about with her seed starting this season!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Take the Master Seed Starting Course
Growing Joy Episode 06: Living, Potted Christmas Trees with Joe Lamp’l
Growing Joy Episode 72: Fall Garden Plants and Projects with Joe Lamp’l
Growing Joy Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier and My MOM
Cultivating Place Podcast by Jennifer Jewell

What seed have you always wanted to grow but felt too intimidated to try?

Follow Joe

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blog for Cydian's guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can Water Quality Affect Your Plants?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Did you know that the quality of water you use can be just as crucial for your plants as it is for your health? 🌱 Join me on this enlightening episode of Growing Joy with Plants as I chat with Cydian, the brilliant mind behind Pure Water Northwest and a true water quality expert. Together, we explore the often-overlooked yet vital topic of water quality and its profound impact on both our well-being and the health of our beloved plants.

Cydian's journey into the world of water quality began with a personal story that many can relate to - his daughter’s health challenges and his experiences managing properties plagued by poor water quality. This episode is packed with insights that every plant lover and dedicated plant parent should hear! We dive deep into the differences between legal and health standards for drinking water, revealing that just because water is legally deemed safe, it doesn't mean it's healthy for you or your plants.

Throughout our conversation, we unravel the complexities of the hydrologic cycle, discuss various contaminants that can affect water quality, and emphasize the importance of customizing water treatment solutions to fit your unique needs. If you’ve ever struggled with plants dying or battling pesky plant pests, this episode is for you! We also touch on how water quality impacts plant health, particularly focusing on the effects of chlorine, salts, and pH levels that can wreak havoc on sensitive plants.

You'll walk away with practical solutions, such as the benefits of reverse osmosis for improving water quality, as well as tips on understanding local water reports. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant parenthood journey, this episode empowers you to take charge of your water quality for healthier living and joyful gardening.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of water quality and plant care together!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:19] How did Cydian Kauffman become the water quality expert?
[04:29] EPA’s Legal water limits vs. healthy water
[05:14] Why eczema, dry skin, and brittle hair can start with your tap water
[07:55] What’s the hydrologic cycle?
[08:21] Microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and “forever chemicals” in everyday water
[09:27] What’s the standard practice for tap water treatment across United States?
[10:14] Why almost all municipal water uses chlorine (and what carbon filters really do)
[11:53] Hard vs soft water
[12:30] Why water that is too soft can damage pipes and plants
[13:22] What’s the ideal hardness/softness of water?
[14:23] pH and alkaline
[15:15] Espoma Organic
[16:58] The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture
[20:39] What are the three biggest water issues affecting skin, appliances, and health?
[22:05] Forever chemicals explained
[25:52] What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
[27:32] Why salts/sodium in tap water can lead to leaf burn and root stress
[30:27] Manukora honey
[31:15] How salts cause leaf burn through osmotic pressure
[35:00] How to find what’s in your city’s water
[37:05] Other ways to fix water quality issues (carbon filters, softeners, reverse osmosis)
[40:36] What does structured water or “water coherence” mean?
[42:46] Where to find Cydian online + how he water consults remotely
[43:43] Real-world water success stories that changed lives

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 317: Discover Coherent Water with Mario Brainovic of Analemma Water
The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor by Gerald Pollack
EWG Tap Water Database
Safe Drinking Water Act: Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR) | US EPA

If you want to check your area's water quality,

Follow Cydian:

Website
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
LinkedIn

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture by Brandy Hall

Grab The Complete Guide to Home Permacultureat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for practical, beginner-friendly ideas to get started!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Low Waste Plant Parenthood: Sustainable Plant Care Tips for Joyful Living: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

What if low waste plant parenthood began with just one houseplant? In this episode, I’m joined by urban farmer and plant coach Nick Cutsumpas (aka Farmer Nick) to explore how sustainable plant care can become a powerful gateway to mindful gardening and environmental action.

As part of the Best of Growing Joy series, we revisit this meaningful conversation from the archives to look at plant parenthood through a holistic lens, one rooted in intention, awareness, and joyful living. Nick shares how caring for plants, even in a small apartment, can support low waste living and regenerative habits without perfection or pressure.

This episode breaks down holistic plant care in a realistic, approachable way, offering plant parents simple shifts they can make to care for their plants, their well-being, and the planet.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:02:26] Introducing Nick Cutsumpas and episode key ideas
[00:07:18] What Nick does, what started his plant journey (mothers DO know best!), and how plants served as his ‘saving grace’ when he moved into the city
[00:10:38] Check out Nick in Netflix’s new show The Big Flower Fight!
[00:11:14] What is regenerative environmental action? Nick explains sustainability vs regenerative
[00:13:22] Are houseplant people practicing regenerative methods with their plants? According to Nick, to see is to believe when it comes to taking care of our environment
[00:15:01] How Maria realized she could be doing more sustainable practices
[00:15:22] Maria’s current idea obsession: plant blindness — Nature Not Furniture!
[00:16:32] What Maria thinks of ‘zero waste’ and her reservations with the movement
[00:17:17] Nick shares why he thinks plant blindness is similar to waste blindness
[00:17:37] Why Nick strives for low waste consumption vs zero waste, how we as consumers can apply low waste consumption to the products we buy
[00:19:45] Why the time to be more conscious is NOW more than ever and how taking care of plants reminds us that we can take action
[00:20:47] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on low waste
[00:21:45] Low Waste Beginner Tip #1: Reuse everything
[00:22:46] Do you have tons of bubble wrap from your online orders? Save them for your next plant cutting gift!
[00:23:50] What is ‘waste’? For Nick, it’s everything that ends up in a landfill
[00:24:38] Maria’s lightbulb moment on her waste consumption: New York’s composting system
[00:25:11] The negative effects of plastics in our environment and how we can be smart and responsible with our plastic consumption
[00:26:54] Why we should be cautious about greenwashing, waste segregation, and biodegradable vs compostable materials
[00:28:24] Nick’s sustainability influences
[00:29:13] Low Waste Tip #2: Buy quality over quantity (Yes, you save more money this way!)
[00:30:12] Nick’s sustainability progress: he hasn’t bought anything new in more than a year! The secret? Thrifting!
[00:31:52] The eco-friendly furniture and mattress stores that Nick recommends
[00:33:56] How the pandemic enabled more waste production
[00:34:48] Why the most impact can be achieved through collective action; ‘10% is better’
[00:35:14] The BEST recycled and sustainable wall planters and the BEST plant kits to give this Holiday season!
[00:38:56] Nick reveals the most common mistakes we all do when it comes to composting
[00:39:54] How to REALLY begin your low waste journey
[00:40:39] Why you need to wash your recyclables
[00:41:22] Low Waste Tip #3: Find bulk stores and bring your own jars
[00:41:50] How Nick manages to do zero-waste grocery shopping
[00:42:25] What is ‘produce paralysis’? What is Nick’s proposed solution to packaging waste?
[00:44:04] Low Waste Tip #4: Avoid single-use plastic in the produce section
[00:45:24] Nick’s low waste hack: Put the jar in warm water for 10 minutes to remove the adhesive label, and reuse the jar for drinking or plant propagation!
[00:46:47] Low Waste Tip #5: Don’t be shy to ask if you can use your own containers for your consumables!
[00:47:39] Maria weighs in on the different straws from her own experiences (make sure you clean them!)
[00:49:28] What do we do with our plastic nursery pots? a. bring them to a nursery, b. cache, c. make a tent for your drainage hole
[00:53:38] Low Waste Tip #6: Grow something new in your used nursery pots
[00:54:06] The company that Nick trusts to recycle his plastics
[00:55:31] Propagating your plants can also help your recycle and upcycle
[00:56:30] Low Waste Tip #7: Choose sustainable soil options
[00:57:44] Low Waste Tip #8: Know your plant number! (we’re serious!)
[00:59:00] Your plant consumption should be healthy AND environmentally-responsible
[01:00:28] Low Waste Tip #9: Buy your plants from your local businesses
[01:01:46] Plant shops that Nick and Maria recommend
[01:04:05] Listener Question #1: Can you compost perlite?
[01:04:49] Listener Question #2: Are there alternatives to plastic nursery pots and stickers?
[01:06:28] Why you should support CSA
[01:07:47] Why low waste and sustainable living is important to Nick
[01:09:09] Our responsibility to our environment as plant parents!
[01:10:24] Maria’s realizations and future commitment to the low waste living movement

Mentioned in our conversation:

Which small low-waste swap could your plants inspire you to try this week?

Follow Nick

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Exploring the Intersection of Black American History, Culture, and Botany Through Trees

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever stopped to consider the stories that trees could tell if they could speak? In this episode of Growing Joy with Plants, I’m thrilled to welcome the incredible Beronda Montgomery, a renowned botanist and author, as we dive deep into her groundbreaking new book, When Trees Testify. Together, we explore the profound connection between humans and plants, particularly how trees bear witness to history, including the often-overlooked narratives of black American history. This conversation is not just about botany; it’s about understanding the emotional and historical significance that trees hold in our lives.

Beronda shares her enlightening journey from studying the intricate world of botany to uncovering the rich tapestry of stories that trees represent, especially in relation to African American history. We discuss the themes of land trauma, the importance of storytelling in understanding plant life, and how trees serve as living witnesses to the past. You’ll hear about Baronda’s transformative visit to a plantation that ignited her passion for exploring the historical significance of trees, and how these majestic beings can guide us toward healing and wellness rooted in nature.

As plant lovers and plant parents, we often seek ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with our green companions. This episode emphasizes the need for holistic plant care, mindful gardening, and the joy of nurturing plants as a form of home-based wellness. Beronda’s insights on the intersection of botany, personal history, and cultural heritage will inspire you to reflect on your own experiences with plants and how they contribute to your mental health and joyful living.

Join us as we unpack these vital themes and learn how to better care for our plants, whether it’s dealing with pesky plant pests, understanding humidity for plants, or mastering watering tips to keep our green friends thriving. Let’s dig into the stories that our plants hold and recognize the rich narratives they embody.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:01] Do you want to join my 2026 Growing Joy class experience?
[02:53] Meet my plant friend Beronda Montgomery!
[05:23] Why Beronda’s work extends beyond botany into history and activism
[09:23] Why When Trees Testify matters and what sparked its creation
[11:29] What is land trauma?
[14:27] What happened during their visit to the McLeod Plantation?
[15:25] The Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening
[16:51] Espoma Organic
[22:03] What is plant communication/tree communication?
[23:02] What are “witness trees” and their part in the collective history?
[25:06] How an enslaved botanist shaped the pecan industry
[28:23] How reclaiming wisdom can help heal land trauma
[32:29] Why is the Willow Tree chapter the most personal to write for Beronda?
[33:46] Uncovering the Elaine, Arkansas massacre through plants
[35:57] How trees help identify forgotten sacred spaces
[36:17] Why trees matter globally as historical indicators
[37:17] What does "Sankofa" mean?
[39:03] Why Apple trees have such a great impact on history
[42:58] Life at Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute and what’s next for Beronda
[45:27] Where to find Beronda’s work, events, and future talks

Mentioned in our conversation:

To learn more about how Beronda explores Black American history through botany,

Follow Beronda:

Website
Instagram
Books
Bsky

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by The American Horticultural Society

Grab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardeningat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the complete African violet care guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

African Violet Care Guide for Plant Lovers - Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

African violets often get a bad reputation as fussy, old-fashioned houseplants, but what if they’ve just been misunderstood? In this African violet care guide, we’re bringing back a favorite episode from the Best of Growing Joy series to change the way you think about caring for African violets.

Lisa from Houseplant Guru joins us to bust common African violet myths and explain why these so-called “grandma plants” are actually some of the most rewarding indoor flowering plants you can grow. African violets bloom indoors with far less effort than many houseplants, including hoyas.

We cover everything you need to know about African violet care, from light and watering to repotting and reblooming, so you’ll feel confident growing African violets again even if you’ve struggled with them before.

In this episode, we learn:

Where did African violets originate?
How do African violets grow outdoors?
What is a gesneriad?
How to care for African violets (watering, light, soil)
Best watering practices for African Violets
When to repot African violets
How to Fertilize African violets
Bloom Cycles: How to have your African violet stay in bloom

Mentioned in our conversation:

What African violet myth are you ready to let go of after this episode?

Follow Lisa

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Plant Care to Nature Therapy: A Solo Heart to Heart

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to transform your relationship with nature and unlock the secrets to true wellness? Join me in the first episode of Season 11 of "Growing Joy with Plants," where I take you on a reflective journey through the past year of my life as a plant care educator, podcaster, and fellow plant lover. This episode is packed with insights on how nature therapy can elevate your mental health, helping you reconnect with the natural world while nurturing your beloved plants.

As I share my heartfelt gratitude for each of you amazing listeners, I dive into the exciting transitions I experienced in 2025. From doubling the number of podcast episodes to launching my very own digital course, this year has been a whirlwind of growth and learning. But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing; I’ve faced challenges that tested my resilience, and through it all, I’ve discovered the profound connection between caring for our plants and our personal well-being.

Looking ahead to 2026, I’m thrilled to announce a fresh focus on self-care and the healing power of nature. We’ll explore how nature therapy can enhance your home-based wellness journey, moving beyond just plant care to encompass a holistic approach to joyful living. I’m also excited to share that I’m pursuing certification as a forest therapy guide! This endeavor will allow us to delve into the significance of forest therapy and its incredible benefits for mental health.

Join me in upcoming classes designed to help you reflect on the past year and realign your intentions for the new one. Together, we’ll cultivate joy through nature and deepen our connection with the world around us. So grab your favorite houseplant, find a cozy spot, and let’s embark on this journey of growth and healing!

Join us in the Growing Joy in 2026 2 class experience! https://growingjoywithmaria.com/2026

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] A big intention shift for 2026 and a new chapter for Growing Joy!
[02:30] A trip down memory lane for 2025! (doubling content, launching courses, etc.)
[03:25] What went into making the Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass
[06:57] How I may relaunch the Growing Joy Garden Society
[07:37] Personal transitions, health challenges, and putting down roots in Florida
[08:43] Why I feel like I’m outgrowing the constant “how to water plants” content
[09:20] Why I want to focus on “self care through plant care” content in 2026
[10:20] How to water ourselves via caring for houseplants
[11:01] Why connecting with nature matters more than how you do it
[12:41] What’s staying the same and what’s expanding in the podcast
[13:20] Why plants have been my anchor through hard years
[16:34] Becoming a sound bath practitioner and using it to create healing experiences
[17:08] The big announcement: training as a forest therapy guide!
[17:41] What is forest therapy? (aka forest bathing)
[19:12] How forest therapy awakens the senses and calms the nervous system
[21:14] Remembering we are part of nature (not visitors to it)
[22:11] Creating a podcast mini-series about forest therapy with the help of ANFT
[23:33] Why deeper connection with nature supports planetary health
[25:00] Introducing “Growing Joy in 2026,” a Lunar New Year class series!
[26:08] Reflecting, releasing, and composting lessons from 2025

Mentioned in our conversation:

Interested in learning more about forest therapy?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the full snake plant care guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Snake Plant Care: Find Joy with Thriving Sansevieria: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 8 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I’ve been on an eight-year campaign to bring more attention and love to the plant we’re doing a deep dive on today, as you’ll find out. Because this plant, the snake plant (otherwise known as the san), is often touted as a low-light plant. But it wants to soak up the sun, plant friends. It deserves so much more than it gets.

So today, we’re revisiting a favorite episode of mine with guest Chris Satch, which is a deep dive on snake plants, finally giving them a full episode to learn more about them: from their African roots to why they wrinkle, flop, or sometimes even bloom. Get ready for a joyful, myth-busting deep dive into the care structure and secret strengths of one of my favorite plants.

Alright, plant friends. If today’s episode convinces you to let your snake plant finally bask in some well-deserved sunshine, just wait until you see how much happier (and how much chubbier) those leaves become when you put them in the light where they deserve to be.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:39] Why Maria LOVES snake plants
[04:55] Why snake plants are the most giftable plants
[06:06] Are snake plants Dracaena or Sansevieria?
[09:32] Where do you find snake plants in nature?
[10:06] Are snake plants low-light plants?
[11:08] The structure of a snake plant
[13:43] How snake plants photosynthesize
[18:02] How much light do snake plants need? Can you burn them?
[19:16] How often should you water snake plants?
[21:22] What your snake plant looks like when it needs watering
[23:24] How do you get a snake plant to flower?
[24:13] Do snake plants need fertilizer?
[26:23] Where to get sustainable hanging planters
[29:12] The best giftable planty products this season
[32:14] Chris’ confession about the best potting media for snake plants
[34:49] Maria’s confession about her first snake plants
[35:57] How to divide and repot snake plant pups
[38:00] How tall should a pup be before you separate them?
[41:23] Why do snake plants droop? How do you strengthen their leaves?
[43:33] Troubleshooting floppy snake plant leaves
[46:06] How do you get snake plants to be fuller?
[47:33] Chris’ favorite snake plant species
[52:28] Why you should wipe the dust off your snake plant leaves
[54:05] What life lessons can we learn from snake plants?

Will you finally move your snake plant into brighter light?

Follow Chris

Classes

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for all the kid-friendly plant activities and tips to get growing together!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Holistic Plant Care Projects for Kids: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 1 Jan 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I’m so excited to bring you today’s child-friendly episode with a dear friend of mine, Joe Dombrowski. You might know him as @mrDtimes3. He’s the classroom teacher who went viral several years ago and was featured on Ellen for doing a joke spelling bee with his kids. But Joe is actually a massive plant parent, and we became friends a couple of years ago because he listened to the podcast.

When I learned that he was a teacher, I thought it would be so fun to do an episode together on child-friendly holistic plant care activities you can do with kids, whether they’re crafts or science-based activities, like teaching science, or just keeping your kids engaged and hands-on in the classroom or at home.

I figured it would be a fun time to re-release this episode as part of the Best of Growing Joy series in December, when you probably have some kiddos home for vacation and are looking for a few things to do with them. Maybe one of these really creative plant projects that Joe talks about will help you out during your time off.

In this episode, we learn:

Joe and Maria remember their trip to the Amazon Spheres together
Joe's opinion on kids going back to school
[12:25] Project 1: Seed Germination in a Bag
[19:50] Project 2: Sweet Potato Experiment and understanding the scientific process
Project 3: Pothos Propagation 3 Ways
Project 4: Fairy Gardens and Terrariums
Project 5: List of Interactive Plants for Kids
Joe's list of his personal favorite plants in his collection
Joe's most recent plant parent win

Which plant project are you excited to try first with the kids?

Follow Joe

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A Day in the Life of a Plant Consultant Helping Plant Parents Fight Pests (and the Scariest Scale on Plants Infestation You've Ever Seen)

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how a single pothos plant could change your entire life? Join us in this inspiring episode of "Growing Joy with Plants" as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Richard, affectionately known as Lord Fierce, the visionary founder of Plant Daddy NYC. We explore the vibrant tapestry of the plant community, recalling our first encounter at PlantCon in New York City and the influential figures who helped shape their passion for plants!

Richard's journey from a luxury gym employee in Los Angeles to a dedicated plant consultant in the bustling streets of New York City is nothing short of remarkable. He shares how his childhood memories of gardening with his mother ignited a lifelong love for plants, leading him to create an urban jungle in his home. As Richard reveals the transformative power of plants, he discusses the pivotal moment when a humble pothos plant sparked his passion and set him on the path to becoming a plant consultant.

Throughout this episode, Richard dives deep into the nuances of plant care, emphasizing the importance of understanding plants not just through academic knowledge but through hands-on experience. He recounts his evolution from a hobbyist to a sought-after plant consultant, detailing the educational journey that took him through self-study and practical experience at a local plant store. With insights on common challenges like dealing with scale insects, getting rid of gnats, and managing humidity for plants, Richard equips you with the tools to tackle plant pests and diseases effectively.

As he shares his wealth of knowledge on watering tips, repotting plants, and propagation techniques, listeners will gain valuable insights into holistic plant care and mindful gardening practices. Richard's passion for joyful living through plant parenthood shines through as he discusses the creativity and resilience required to thrive in the world of plant styling and maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your journey as a plant parent, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice that can enhance your home-based wellness.

Don't miss out on the chance to learn from Richard's experiences and discover how plants can bring healing in nature to your life. Tune in to this episode for an uplifting exploration of the joys and challenges of being a plant consultant, and let the green journey begin!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:15] Meet Richard “Lord Fierce,” the NYC plant doctor behind Plant Daddy MD!
[05:26] Growing up with plants in a Vietnamese immigrant household
[07:13] How did Richard develop his love for plants?
[10:18] What did his plant collection start as, and what has it grown into?
[12:13] Why he decided to chase “difficult plants”
[13:35] Reverse-engineering a UC Berkeley syllabus for self-education
[14:51] Learn how to make plant care foolproof with Espoma Organic’s premium products!
[17:01] Experience honey with superpowers and save up to 31% plus $25 in free gifts at Manukora!
[19:02] Why real plant expertise requires dirty hands
[21:21] When did he start charging for his service?
[23:03] Building an “ICU” for sick plants behind the scenes
[24:29] When house calls turned a hobby into paid work
[26:03] How job loss turned his life around
[29:16] Learning entrepreneurship from everyday resilience
[33:04] A day in the life of a NYC plant doctor
[35:39] How he treats pest infestations for his clients
[37:49] Corporate installs, repotting, and office plant styling
[38:43] How he rescued a 14-foot fiddle leaf fig with bonsai techniques
[40:56] The wildest plant call yet: a “ghost cactus” mystery (exoskeleton of scales)
[45:08] The unglamorous reality of professional plant care
[45:32] What’s inside a plant doctor’s kit
[46:13] The signature Plant Daddy MD look
[46:31] Where to find Richard, book him, and follow his work

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 250: The Business of Horticulture with Leslie Halleck
Growing Joy Episode 272: Beneficial Insects For Effortless Houseplant Pest Management with Jamie of DMV Beneficials

Interested in learning how Richard made the career switch to plant doctor?

Website
Instagram
TikTok
Services

Follow Richard:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for all the winter-prep tips!

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Defying Gravity: How Air Plants Grow, Bloom, and Inspire Wonder: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Air plants don’t get nearly enough love in the houseplant community. They’re an incredible low-maintenance, low-light-tolerant option, and one of the most fascinating plant species out there. They completely defy gravity, hanging from trees without soil. I appreciate them on an even deeper level now that I live in Florida, where I see air plants thriving in their natural habitat every single day, clinging to trees, bark, and branches on my walks. They’re whimsical, a little alien-looking, and endlessly fascinating. I think you’re really going to enjoy nerding out about them with me.

So today, in the Best of Growing Joy series, we’re bringing back my dear friend Josh, the Air Plant Man, from an episode way, way back in the feed.

Josh is a landscape architect turned Tillandsia expert, and he is truly air-plant-obsessed. Not just with caring for them, but with designing sustainable, beautiful ways to showcase these plants through his creations. This episode is a fantastic beginner’s guide to air plants, and I hope you walk away knowing something new about them by the end.

In this episode, we learn:

Josh’s upbring and how he connected with plants initially
Why outdoor gardeners say they can’t keep houseplants
What an airplant is, genus, family, and why it is special
What are trichomes
How Airplants get their nutrients
To fertilize or not to fertilize?
What airplant “blushing” is
How airplants bloom and how to care for them when they do
How to propagate airplants from their seeds
Airplant Care 101
Debunking watering plant myths
Everything we need to know about Airplant Pups
How to separate pups from their mother plant
What to know about the sexy and instagram friendly Xerografica Airplant
Josh’s top 5 recommendations for more uncommon airplants for the planty collector

Which winter houseplant tip are you excited to try first?

Follow Josh

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

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Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

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Check out the full show notes and blog here for Ceilidh's guide!

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Botanical Printing: Transform Your Plants Into Stunning Fabrics for Joyful Living and Mindful Gardening

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how the vibrant colors of flowers can transform your wardrobe? Join us in this episode of Growing Joy with Plants as we dive into the enchanting world of botanical printing with Ceilidh, the visionary founder of the sustainable clothing line BillyNou. Together, we explore the art of natural dyeing, where the beauty of plants meets the creativity of fashion. Ceilidh shares her journey as a designer living in the picturesque Provence, France, and her passion for harnessing the power of non-toxic flowers to create stunning botanical prints on fabric.

As we unravel the secrets of botanical printing, Ceilidh introduces various dyeing techniques, including the mesmerizing methods of bundle dyeing and immersion dyeing. Discover which flowers yield the most vibrant colors and learn how to safely incorporate these natural pigments into your own fabric creations. This episode is an invitation for all plant lovers and gardening enthusiasts to connect with nature through the colors and textures of their gardens.

Throughout the conversation, we touch on the therapeutic benefits of engaging with plants and the mental health advantages of home-based wellness activities like mindful gardening. Ceilidh emphasizes the importance of using non-toxic materials, making this a perfect episode for plant parents who are passionate about holistic plant care and joyful living.

Join us as we embark on this colorful journey of botanical printing! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from Ceilidh and explore how you can use flowers from your garden or local markets to create beautiful, sustainable pieces of art. Listen now and let your creativity blossom & grow!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:12] Who is Ceilidh and how did she start BillyNou?
[05:07] How a Steiner/Waldorf education shaped her creativity
[09:06] What is a natural dye?
[12:48] Which fabrics give beginners the best results?
[15:08] How to rinse and prep fibers correctly
[15:30] Wind River Chimes
[17:09] The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa Ziegler
[18:40] Can you dye denim?
[21:38] What makes bundle dyeing the ultimate beginner technique?
[22:56] What are the best flowers to use as dyes?
[24:11] How to dye a denim jacket
[24:37] How to lay out flowers before rolling
[26:43] How to steam your bundle safely at home
[29:06] How modifiers shift the colors
[29:53] Why pH-neutral soap matters
[31:37] Biggest mistakes with bundle dyeing
[32:07] Which flowers don’t work well as dyes (and why)
[33:04] Dyeing with medicinal herbs for symbolic meaning
[35:05] Best food scraps for dyeing
[36:25] Where to find BillyNou’s clothes, tutorials, and workshops
[38:11] Inside her Creative Floral Retreat in Provence

Mentioned in our conversation:

Excited to get started with your botanical prints?

Follow Ceilidh:

Website
Shop
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa M Ziegler

Pick up The Cut Flower Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for all the winter-prep tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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How to Prep Your Houseplants for Winter: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

As we move into the winter season and you notice the days are getting shorter, you might also notice that your plants start looking a little sleepy. Maybe they start growing a little slower. Maybe they have some leaves die back, and this episode is created to help you not panic and learn that the plants are moving into a cozy season just like we are.

So this is an old episode that we're bringing back in the Best of Growing Joy series, a solo episode where I give you the ins and outs of why our plants kind of experience this quiescence this cozy season and give you some of my tried and true tips to make sure that your houseplants are happy all winter long, from adjusting your light and humidity to finding peace in your own personal dormancy.

I hope this episode gives you all of the cozy vibes and sets you up for success as we enter the dormant season for our plants and hopefully ourselves.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:28] The effect of light on the growth of plants
[06:52] How winter impacts your plants
[07:34] Why leaf drop isn’t necessarily bad
[07:55] Do some people experience more light in winter?
[09:15] What is quiescence and how does it affect plants?
[10:09] Are all plants dormant during the winter season?
[10:50] Is preemptive pruning really necessary?
[11:30] Supplementing high-light plants with grow lights during the winter
[13:14] How should you water your plants during winter?
[14:29] Which is better? Watering routine or plant care routine?
[15:47] Beware of the one-size fits all suggestions on plant care
[16:41] Why you shouldn’t assume your plant is dead
[18:19] Things to keep in mind with plant shopping during winter
[21:30] Where to get seeds for your spring garden
[22:52] The best gardening products that are safe for you, for your pets, and for thea planet
[24:21] How important humidity for plants is in the winter
[26:03] Using a humidifier in your household
[29:03] How to protect your plants from drafty windows during winter
[30:40] How to clean your humidifiers
[31:46] When can you stop watering your plants?
[32:42] How to deal with pest outbreaks during winter
[34:21] How can you apply this concept of quiescence to yourself?
[37:08] The rule of 10% less in adapting acquiesce in your life

Mentioned in our conversation:

YouTube video My Home Grow light Tour!
YouTube video Moisture Meter and Hygrometer Review
Grow Lights
Hygrometers
Radiators
Humidifiers

Which winter houseplant tip are you excited to try first?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blog here for more!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Food Preservation for Plant Parents: Transform Your Gardening Journey into Sustainable Joy and Wellness

Tue, 9 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how a simple vegetable garden can transform into a thriving source of joy, health, and sustainability? Join host Maria Failla in this inspiring episode of Growing Joy with Plants as she welcomes Jeremy and Staci, a passionate husband-and-wife duo who have dedicated over 21 years to the art of gardening and food preservation. Discover their incredible journey from planting seeds in their backyard to becoming experts in preserving the bounty of their harvest, all while nurturing their six children and creating a legacy of wellness rooted in nature.

In this enlightening conversation, Jeremy and Staci share their motivations for growing and preserving food, highlighting the dual goals of providing high-quality produce and reducing grocery bills. They dive deep into practical methods of preservation, including canning, freezing, and freeze-drying, while emphasizing the importance of planning and understanding the yield of different plants. Their insights not only address the challenges of plant care but also touch on the broader benefits of food security and cost savings.

Listeners will be inspired by the couple's agritourism farm in Missouri, where they cultivate not only food for their family but also a welcoming space for others to learn about gardening and preservation. Jeremy and Staci encourage aspiring plant parents and gardening enthusiasts to start small and experiment with preservation techniques, offering practical tips that can lead to joyful living and holistic plant care.

As you tune in, you'll gain valuable knowledge about the intersection of gardening and mental health, the joy of sharing your harvest, and the importance of nature mindfulness in our lives. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just beginning your journey into plant parenthood, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice to help you grow joy with plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:02] Meet Jeremy & Staci Hill from Gooseberry Bridge Farm!
[03:09] Why food quality pushed them deeper into homesteading
[04:15] When did they start getting into preserving their garden harvests?
[04:54] What it means to be a “you-pick flower farm”
[05:13] A peek at their 12-acre property and flower fields
[09:02] Regular garden vs a preserver’s garden
[10:22] How they calculate yearly needs: experimentation + family habits
[12:05] How cooking every meal changes your relationship to food and waste
[14:54] Espoma Organic
[16:35] Vibrant Harvest by Sandra Mao
[17:59] What are the other benefits of homesteading/preserving?
[20:06] Things you need to consider with homesteading
[23:27] How to preserve okra
[24:29] One crop many ways vs many crops one way
[26:41] Freeze-drying vs canning
[28:57] Salting
[29:43] Fermenting & pickling (kimchi, sauerkraut, and probiotic pickles)
[32:23] Modern tools that make preserving easier
[33:18] Canning
[35:34] Dehydrating
[41:58] DIY root cellar: the “extra fridge turned to 50°F” trick
[43:05] Where to find Jeremy & Staci, their book, and their farm online

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Preserver's Garden: How to Grow a Garden for Fermenting, Canning, Pickling, Dehydrating, Freeze Drying, and More by Staci and Jeremy Hill
Growing Joy 202: How to Can and Ferment Vegetables and Fruits from Your Garden with Stephanie Thurow
Growing Joy 195: Homesteading for Beginners with Michelle Bruhn and Stephanie Thurow
Gooseberry Bridge 2026 Farm Memberships
Gooseberry Bridge You-Pick Flowers

Enjoy your harvest more with preserving made easy,

Follow Staci & Jeremy:

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: Vibrant Harvest by Sandra Mao

Grab Vibrant Harvestat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how you can have a lasting Christmas memory with a living tree!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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The Joy of a Living Christmas Tree: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 4 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Did you know that you can have a living Christmas tree in your home that can be planted and live long after the ornaments come down? I didn't know this until seven years ago when I interviewed Joe Lamp’l, otherwise known as Joe Gardener, all about how to have a living Christmas tree indoors that you plant in later years.

It was a fascinating episode, and it is Part 2 of our Christmas Tree Series that we've brought back from way deep in the archives. Please remember this was like the fourth or fifth episode of the podcast, so sound quality might look a little different, but it's such great content, and you might be curious about adding a temporary houseplant Christmas tree to your collection that then can live on in perpetuity, that you can visit in years to come. I hope you love this episode and it gets you into the holiday spirit!

In this episode, we learn:

What a Living Christmas Tree actually is
What the options are for using your tree after the holiday season
The entire process from selection to replanting of a Living Christmas Tree
Average length of time for a Living Christmas Tree to be indoors
The secret to preserving moisture in your Living Christmas Tree
The experiment that might cause me to get two trees this year…
The importance of mulch
Proper technique for replanting your tree
Using your tree as an heirloom

Curious about living Christmas trees?

Follow Joe:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn more!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Explore the Healing Plants of the Sonoran Desert

Tue, 2 Dec 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, today let’s talk about the Sonoran Desert, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. As a former New Yorker turned Florida plant parent, I will never forget the first time I visited Arizona and that surreal feeling of standing in a place so unlike anywhere I’d ever been. And lucky for us, I have invited a new plant friend and someone who knows the Sonoran Desert ecosystem like the back of her hand. She’s called Sonoran Rosie, and she’s a herbalist, maker, and desert explorer who has dedicated her life to studying, honoring, and creating with the plants of the Sonoran Desert. Let's get started!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:30] How Rosie became “Sonoran Rosie”
[04:14] What makes the Sonoran Desert so unique?
[04:58] The 4 biomes of the Sonoran Desert
[07:22] How Sonoran plants survive extreme temperature and rainfall swings
[08:21] Ideal springtime desert temperatures
[09:06] What is summer like in the Sonoran Desert?
[10:11] What a monsoon is like in the desert
[11:44] What is creosote (chaparral), aka the plant behind the desert rain smell?
[13:14] What are the medicinal properties of creosotes? (especially for skincare!)
[14:43] Wind River Chimes
[16:22] The Preserver's Garden by Staci and Jeremy Hill
[18:13] What do different seasons look like in the desert?
[19:52] When is it best to plant tomatoes in the desert?
[21:55] What is Rosie’s favorite spring desert plant?
[23:04] What are keystone plants, and how important are they for desert wildlife?
[25:39] How to make poppy tinctures
[26:58] What are Rosie's favorite summer desert plants?
[30:35] How Rosie harvests & preserves prickly pear fruit
[31:53] What are Rosie’s favorite fall desert plants?
[34:24] Jojoba (nut, oil, and skin-loving powerhouse)
[37:34] Why harvesting agave destroys the whole plant
[39:24] Why Brittlebush is Rosie’s favorite desert plant to work with
[40:08] How Rosie's business began with a single creosote spray
[42:17] Are there any Sonoran plants that we could have as houseplants?
[43:17] Where to find Sonoran Rosie’s book and products

Mentioned in the conversation:

Seasons of the Desert book by Sonoran Rosie
The Sonoran Collection

Which desert plants have healing properties?

Follow Sonoran Rosie:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: The Preserver's Garden by Staci and Jeremy Hill

Grab The Preserver's Garden at quarto.com and wherever books are sold and enjoy your garden bounty longer!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what’s really behind your favorite natural scents and how plants use them to survive!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christmas Tree Extravaganza Part 1/2 - Cut Christmas Trees: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

I am so tickled to bring you this episode, a very special episode in the Best of Growing Joy series. This is the fifth episode I ever published in my over 300 episodes on this podcast, but I figured the timing is perfect for me to bring back this oldie but goodie that even if you've been a real devout listener of the podcast, you might have missed because it's so far down the feed. It's perfect for the Best of Growing Joy season—all about Christmas trees and why you should get real cut Christmas trees instead of a fake Christmas tree.

This was an interview I did back in 2017 with Mary Jeanne Packer. Back then, she was with the Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York, and she busted a lot of myths about real versus artificial trees, sustainable practices, and how, if you choose to get a real tree, you could keep it fresh all season long. It was a delightful little conversation and gets you in the spirit for having that beautiful, fresh Christmas tree and that scent in your home.

In this episode, we learn:

Why cut Christmas Trees are actually better for the environment than an artificial tree
The various ways to recycle your cut tree after the holidays
Best practices for having Cut Christmas Trees, from selecting it, to taking it home, how to position and properly care for it and how to properly recycle it after the season.
Myth Busters! Are chemicals and Sprite needed to feed your Christmas Tree? Listen to find out!
Shopping local to celebrate the holiday spirit.

Next time you smell a rose, basil, or the forest after rain… which VOC fact will you think about first?

Follow Christmas Tree Farmers of New York:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Discover Coherent Water: Boost Plant Vitality and Enhance Self-Care with Nature for Plant Parents and Lovers

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Did you know that the water we drink and use in our gardens isn’t in its most natural, optimal form? That simple idea cracked open one of the best conversations I’ve had in my 300+ podcast episodes, plant friend! I talked to Mario Brainovic, the CEO of Analemma Water, to learn about coherent water: what it is, why it matters, and how it affects both our bodies and our plants. This conversation inspired me and made me rethink the water in my glass, my bathtub, and my watering can. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:31] Meet Mario Brainovic, CEO of Analemma Water
[05:55] What is coherent water?
[09:36] Coherent (structured) vs. incoherent water
[13:56] Why everything has sacred geometry, including water
[15:17] Espoma Organic
[17:40] Why the water we drink influences everything
[19:06] Water memory, emotions & frequency
[21:24] First plant studies: measuring biophoton emissions
[24:06] The basil drought-resilience experiment
[26:58] Soil study: restoring dead soil with coherent water
[31:51] How coherent water connects plants (and humans) to circadian rhythms
[33:47] First human study: brainwave harmonization in real time
[38:45] Biological age study: rejuvenation of 1–12 years
[40:13] Why sunlight charges coherent water
[42:43] Benefits of drinking coherent water
[44:15] NAD+ study: the molecule of longevity significantly rises
[45:20] How to make your water coherent: the Analemma wand
[48:25] Rainwater vs. coherent water
[49:58] How to use the wand for houseplants
[51:30] Why coherent water increases nutrient density & light emission
[52:46] Important tip: keep test plants far apart (energy fields!)
[53:58] Mario’s orchid resurrection story
[58:45] 30%+ improvement in heart rate variability after a bath
[59:22] Can you use Analemma for coffee or tea?
[01:00:06] What’s the easiest Analemma bath hack?
[01:00:48] Where to learn more about Analemma + 10% discount code “GROWINGJOY”

Mentioned in our conversation:

For the full list of the positive impacts of coherent water,

Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube

Follow Analemma:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what’s really behind your favorite natural scents and how plants use them to survive!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Plants Communicate: VOCs, Mycorrhizae & the Hidden Language of Plants: Best of Growing Joy

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Plant friend, I'm so excited to bring you this Best of Growing Joy series, a throwback episode to 2020. In the pandemic, I let my plant nerd freak flag fly extremely high. New York Botanical Garden had only in-person classes at the Botanical Garden in the Bronx, and in the pandemic they brought those classes online. I took every class they had to offer: soil science, plant science 101, and this class on tree communication with a professor I loved, Dr. Elle Barnes. She gave this fascinating class on the secret world of plant communication, particularly trees.

This is the replay of the episode I did with her after taking her course because I was so fascinated. I found her entire course incredible and awe-inspiring and wanted to bring a sliver of it to our community. A couple years later, I wanted to bring it back in case you might've missed it way down the feed.

In this conversation, Dr. Barnes and I explore the wild world of the "wood wide web" and how plants use fungi and VOCs—volatile organic compounds—to communicate. It's gonna blow your mind. You're never gonna look at trees the same. So buckle up.

In this episode, we learn:

How and why plants communicate with each other
The “fake news” that VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are all bad for us
How plants use VOCs to communicate with each other and themselves
The above ground plant communication system
If plants ACTUALLY clean the air, and how and why we might have been mislead with this notion
If VOCS are all bad
The difference between a VOC that comes off of a plant and one that comes off of a carpet
The truth about the scent of fresh cut grass (and why it smells that way)
What the scent of a rose actually is (it's a VOC!)
How plants use VOCs to attract pollinators
Maria's OBSESSION with The Overstory
How plants and animals have evolved together
“The enemy of my enemy” theory when it comes to how plants attract certain pollinators
The “Wood Wide Web” and the underground plant communication system
How fungi help trees and plants communicate with each other
Dr Barnes' most “mind blowing” fact about trees and VOC
Why Monstera are conditioned to look for darkness and not light
VOCs and the Ozone

Mentioned in our conversation:

Dr. Barnes's first episode on Growing Joy: Mind Blowing Facts from Intro to Plant Science
The Science of Tree Communication Course at NYBG
The Overstory (Maria's absolute favorite book)

Next time you smell a rose, basil, or the forest after rain… which VOC fact will you think about first?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Propagate Anthurium From Seed - New Houseplant Propagation Guide

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

If you’ve been hanging around the planty corners of the internet lately, you’ve probably noticed something: there’s a particular surge in interest in Anthuriums in our community over the last couple of years! These beautiful and dramatic houseplants are so beautiful, and more and more plant parents in our Growing Joy community have been asking about them. So when I met the Cass, aka plantaddicted_cass, the Anthurium Queen, at the Southeast Plant Show, I knew instantly that I wanted to bring her story to you. She radiated joy. She lit up when she talked about her plants. And she’s here to share with you her obsession with anthuriums, how many thousands of plants she now grows, propagates, sells, nurtures, and laughs about. Time to prop!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:12] Meet Cass aka the Anthurium Queen
[04:17] How she uses humor to heal and share with the world her passion for plants
[05:14] How she fell in love with Anthuriums
[07:19] Plant fails and the messy truth behind her collection
[08:12] Experimenting with soil mixes and learning the hard way!
[09:01] How Cass’s plant hobby became a business
[11:09] What are some anthurium care tips?
[11:46] Easy Anthuriums for beginners!
[13:22] Why Bird’s Nest Anthuriums might surprise you!
[13:57] How to understand Anthurium light needs
[15:09] Wind River Chimes
[16:50] Manukora
[18:27] How to keep Anthuriums happy and lightly moist
[19:04] Cass’s “muscle milk” fertilizer secret
[20:20] How to propagate Anthuriums from seed
[24:32] Harvesting the berries and collecting seeds
[25:23] How to germinate fresh seeds in moss or tree fern fiber
[26:24] When and how to separate the seedlings
[27:23] Potting up baby Anthuriums for the first time
[28:25] What is Cass’s “tote life” growing system for high humidity?
[29:57] How to acclimate seedlings to room conditions
[32:38] What are the biggest mistakes people make when trying this at home?
[33:15] How to rehab struggling Anthuriums and check for pests
[34:26] What is Cass’s favorite airy substrate mix?
[35:45] Where can you find Cass online?
[37:11] Upcoming Anthurium Society and plant expo events!
[39:42] Maria’s wrap-up: Cass’s story proves plants can truly transform lives
[40:02] Try Palm Street with Maria’s link for up to $55 in coupons
[41:16] Free resources for plant parents and how to connect with Maria online

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 219: How to Care for Alocasias, Ep 219
Enjoy up to $55 in new user savings on Palm Street!
International Aroid Society
The BIG Plant Expo

For Cass's anthurium propagation tips,

Instagram
Facebook
TikTok
Cass's Coloring Book

Follow Cass:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get $150 off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook. Promo runs until December 2nd.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to explore all five projects and get the step-by-step guides, photos, and links mentioned in the episode!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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5 Plant Holiday Crafts that Make Amazing DIY Holiday Gifts: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

What if your holiday gifts didn't just look beautiful, but they kept growing long after the season ended and reminded the giftee of you and what an amazing person you are? In this Best of Growing Joy episode, it's a little short for you, but it's packed with really fun DIY plant holiday crafts that you can start doing now so that you can gift them over the holiday season to your loved ones and to your coworkers!

This is an episode I released a couple of years ago, where I went over five creative, affordable, and joy-filled plant DIY projects that are super fun to do yourself, so you get to gift yourself a moment of zen, fun, and calm while you create these pieces. Then you get to gift them to the people that you love and spread your planty love and planty joy to them!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] What are some affordable DIY plant-themed holiday crafts ideas?
[04:58] #1 Thrifted propagation station
[08:10] #2 Windowsill herb garden
[10:30] #3 Stylish Kokedama
[15:07] Looking for unique and soothing chimes as a holiday gift?
[16:35] Looking for the best plant genetics and tailored care for your garden?
[18:52] #4 Succulent Wreath
[25:06] #5 Personalized Terrarium
[31:20] Accompany your DIY crafts with my book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to Make a Living Succulent Wreath – Succulents and Sunshine
Michaels Greenery Terrarium
17″ Living Wreath Sphagnum Moss Form
Greening Pins
Growing Joy Ep 168 Grow Your Own Tea: Intro to Herbalism With Juliet of Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine
Growing Joy Ep 178 The Mushroom Miniseries: Mushrooms 101
Growing Joy Ep 183 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Functional Mushrooms In Your Garden
Growing Joy Ep 191 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Mushrooms Indoors

Which DIY plant gift are you excited to try first this holiday season?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here to learn more!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Poisonous Plants and Their Lore

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

We all love plants, right? We give them names, talk to them like they’re our friends, and basically treat them like family. However, a lot of plants out there can actually really hurt you. That’s what we’re going to talk about today with my longtime friend and fellow plant podcaster Jane Perrone, host of ‘On the Ledge’ podcast and author of ‘Atlas of Deadly Plants.’ We’ll talk about poisonous plants, their chemistry, history, and their complicated relationship with us! Let's get right to it!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:39] How Jane became “Head of Inspiration” at Scribehound Gardening
[07:11] Jane’s evolving plant passions
[11:45] Her first book Legends of the Leaf… and its comeback story
[13:58] Behind Jane’s new book: The Atlas of Deadly Plants
[15:06] Espoma Organic
[16:48] The Water Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson
[18:36] What makes a plant poisonous?
[19:29] The tragic tales of Victorian children
[20:07] What’s the Manchineel tree?
[22:31] Why ancient medicines like ayahuasca, peyote, and tobacco made the list
[26:11] What are the two plants classified as biological weapons?
[28:48] How do plants classify as a biological weapon?
[32:39] How Arthur Conan Doyle experimented with poison on himself!
[34:04] Lords and Ladies: the plant of ancient Europe
[37:42] The real-life dangers of giant hogweed!
[39:28] Lily of the Valley
[42:45] The dark myths behind witches’ “flying ointments”
[44:57] How women’s herbal knowledge became demonized as witchcraft
[47:52] The deadly elegance of strychnine and why it’s easy to detect
[49:23] How modern toxins have replaced plant poisons
[49:58] Where can you find Jane’s books and Scribehound's written works?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Which common plants in your area are poisonous?

Follow Jane:

Website
Instagram
Podcast
TikTok
YouTube
Books
Shop

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson

Grab The Water-Smart Gardenat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to discover how aquatic plants can bring life and joy into your space!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

At Home Hydroponic Gardening 101: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 6 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

If you want to grow fresh herbs, greens, edible flowers, maybe even vegetables, right in your apartment, but you don't want to deal with soil, hydroponics is the answer to your prayer. There has been so many incredible advancements in hydroponic growing that has made this. Former industry that was really reserved for large scale growers, totally available to apartment dwellers.

Now, this throwback episode in the Best of Growing Joy series is a conversation that I had back in 2019 with Rob Laing. He is the author of Ditch the Dirt, a book all about hydroponic gardening, and he's also the founder of Farm One, which is a hydroponic vertical farm growing high-end produce for Michelin star restaurants in New York City.

Since the interview, Rob has actually sold the company and you can now find Farm One in Brooklyn, New York. It's not just an indoor farm now, but it's also a brewery, a cocktail bar, and an event space. So if you're in the New York City area, you should definitely go check it out!

In this episode, we learn:

How and why Rob created Farm.One
What is Hydroponic Gardening
Hydroponic Vs Aquaponic Vs Semi Hydro Gardening
What a basic hydroponic set up looks like for a DIY plant parent
Existing systems that one can buy to just plug and grow
Materials needed for a basic hydroponic set up
Why you need a “bubbler” for your hydro set up
Nutrients- what is important and what isn’t
Why EC and PH are important for your water supply (and what they are)
How to test your water
Pre-made Hydroponic Set Ups you can buy

Mentioned in our conversation:

Amazon Storefront for the Hydroponic Materials

Do you want to learn more about aquascaping?

Follow Rob:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blog here for Martha's tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Rainwater Harvesting 101: Learn to Garden with Less Water

Tue, 4 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

In a time where it feels like the weather is getting more and more volatile no matter where we live, making sure that you can capture rainwater is so important for so many people around the world. That's what this entire episode is about. And to help me with this topic is my plant friend Martha Retallick, author of Water Harvesting 101, who’s mastered the art of collecting and reusing rainwater after years of living through droughts in Tucson, Arizona. In our conversation, she shared how to redirect, collect, and reuse water for free! Let's start collecting, plant friends!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:21] Who is Martha Retallick?
[06:37] What is gardening in Tucson like?
[07:02] Why rainwater beats tap for plants
[09:01] What is water harvesting and its 3 pillars?
[11:00] The benefits of water harvesting
[13:06] What are some drought-tolerant natives (mesquite, palo verde, ironwood)
[14:17] Redirecting rainwater 101
[14:29] Basins vs bowls
[15:43] Wind River Chimes
[17:22] American Horticultural Society Weekly Planner
[19:13] Overflows & berms
[20:31] Flat yard? Start with basins
[22:37] Starter cisterns: rain barrels
[25:07] Is stored rainwater potable?
[25:34] Stepping up to cisterns
[27:27] Calculating your water budget
[29:53] Common mistakes with cisterns and irrigation
[30:36] Drought fallback: plant nitrogen-fixing beans
[32:34] Low-tech gauge to check water level
[33:19] What are the fall crops Martha likes to grow?
[34:56] What counts as gray water
[35:42] Two-way valve (redirect washer water to trees)
[37:06] What to look out for when harvesting water for your landscape
[38:01] The importance of “varying your flavors of water”
[38:40 Where to find Martha’s book and free cheat sheet!
[39:17] Reflections on water usage

Mentioned in our conversation:

Oasis Soap Bar
Water Budget Calculator | Watershed Management Group
Water Harvesting 101 Book by Martha Retallick
Growing Joy 275: Water Saving Techniques for Your Garden with Noelle Johnson

To help you get started with water harvesting,

Follow Martha:

Website
Instagram
Newsletter
Research
LinkedIn
Podcast

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: Weekly Planner by the American Horticultural Society

Grab your Weekly Planner at quarto.com and wherever books are sold and fill your days with botanical beauty!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to discover how aquatic plants can bring life and joy into your space!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aquatic Gardening Made Simple: Beginner Tips for a Sunken Garden: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever dreamed of turning a simple fish tank into a lush underwater jungle? Or maybe you're like me, and you have a partner who isn't really into houseplants but is fascinated by those YouTube videos about turning aquariums into these swaying underwater jungles?

You or your partner are gonna love this Best of Growing Joy Replay Episode when, a few years ago, I sat down with Karen Randall. She's the author of Sunken Gardens and an aquatic gardening expert, and we break down everything you need to know to start your first planted aquarium. You'll gain the confidence to create a thriving mini ecosystem underwater right on your countertop!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:06] Introducing Karen
[03:33] What to expect from this conversation
[05:20] How Karen became the plant lady she is today
[07:40] The importance of knowing your plants’ natural habitat
[08:42] Why are planted aquariums becoming popular again?
[10:33] Basic houseplants vs. aquatic plants
[12:04] How do you trade aquatic plants?
[13:33] What are aquatic plants and how do they grow underwater?
[15:04] The different types of aquatic plants
[19:48] How are emersed and submersed aquarium plants different
[21:24] The basic requirements for a planted aquarium with live plants
[23:43] What does ‘cycled’ mean?
[25:57] Why do you need to let your plants settle in the aquarium before introducing fish?
[28:43] Where to get bacteria that your aquarium needs
[30:04] Three uses of filters in your aquarium
[33:07] How to prep your plants for winter
[34:51] Learn from a horticulturist!
[37:06] What water to use in your aquarium
[38:31] How to figure out the water you have at home
[39:52] Troubleshooting your aquarium water
[42:03] Why do you need to change the water in your aquarium?
[43:17] Using fertilizer in your aquarium
[45:08] What type of substrate works best for your aquarium?
[50:23] Aquarium lighting and the basics
[53:26] The most important lighting factor for your aquarium
[56:56] Karen’s aquarium supply recommendations
[58:26] How to transition to a bigger tank
[01:00:11] Are CO2 systems worth it?
[01:03:14] How do you select plants for your aquarium?
[01:05:24] Top 5 best aquatic plants for beginners
[01:11:41] Maria’s plans for her own planted aquarium

Mentioned in our conversation:

Do you want to learn more about Sunken Gardens?

Follow Karen:

Planted Aquarium Website
Facebook
Vivarium/Terrarium Website
Planted Nano and Betta Tank Facebook Group

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leave the Leaves: Think Before You Rake

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Happy Leave the Leaves Month, plant friends! Did you guys know that was a thing that plant parents celebrate in October? It's actually one of the simplest, most low-maintenance, and laziest things that you could do to increase the diversity in your yard and save the planet!

And the perfect person to talk to about that is none other than my plant friend, David Mizejewski, a naturalist from the National Wildlife Federation, and a total plant nerd. He made a compelling argument for why we should all leave our leaves with intention. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:03] How David became the ultimate “nature geek” and advocate for wildlife-friendly gardening
[04:17] Why October is officially “Leave the Leaves Month”
[05:19] How did David land his dream job working with wildlife?
[06:45] The connection between native plants, birds, and pollinators
[07:44] Why conventional lawns are one of the worst habitats for wildlife
[09:02] Sustainability goes mainstream: rewilding and native plant buzz
[11:09] What is the role of leaves in biodiversity?
[11:38] Yard ≠ lawn
[14:05] Use leaves as free mulch/fertilizer in beds
[14:46] Wind River Wind Chimes
[16:26] Manukora Honey
[18:00] How leaves naturally retain moisture, suppress weeds, and feed soil
[19:26] How bagged leaves release methane in landfills and worsen climate change
[23:12] What’s hiding in your leaf litter?
[24:58] How some moths, fireflies, and birds depend on fallen leaves
[28:44] Why you should ditch the leaf blower and use a rake instead
[30:00] Under-leaf all-stars: isopods, earthworms, and other recyclers
[31:29] How fireflies and other amphibians depend on leaves
[34:01] How Bumblebee queens overwinter beneath leaves
[38:31] How to “leave the leaves” the right way: raking, composting, and layering
[43:00] What to do when your garden beds are full
[45:33] How to get your town or HOA on board with sustainable yard practices
[47:37] How small local actions fight climate change
[48:44] David’s Halloween costumes and wildlife fun facts
[49:51] Take the pledge + NWF “Leave the Leaves” hub
[51:31] Where to follow David, NWF, and Garden for Wildlife

Mentioned in our conversation:

Attracting Birds, Butterflies, and Other Backyard Wildlife by David Mizejewski
Videos featuring Naturalist David Mizejewski
Book David – Naturalist David Mizejewski
Growing Joy 308: Groundcovers That Work: Low-Maintenance Plants for Every Garden with Kathy Jentz

For David's wildlife-friendly gardening practices,

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
TikTok
LinkedIn

Follow David:

Follow National Wildlife Federation:

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
X

Follow Garden for Wildlife by NWF:

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get 25% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for expert tips on making your Hoyas grow successfully!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hoya Care Guide for Plant Lovers: Growing, Blooming, and Busting Myths with Doug from Vermont Hoya: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What is it that makes hoyas so irresistible that buying your first hoya often leads to having 40 in the few months to follow? In this listener favorite of the Best of Growing Joy series, I am bringing back a conversation with Doug Chamberlain of Vermont Hoya. Doug is one of the most beloved Hoya experts online, and we dive into their dazzling diversity, surprising care quirks, and intoxicating flowers.

Doug makes a very strong argument that every person in the world should care for Hoyas and know all the specifics that you need to know in order to get your Hoyas thriving and ideally blooming. So whether you're new to Hoya or you're already knee-deep in gorgeous leaves and peduncles, this conversation is going to leave you inspired to grow joyfully and with confidence.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Doug's Plant Parent History and introduction to Hoya and his Ideal Hoya Setup
[11:11] Where hoyas live in nature
[14:00] Why are hoyas called “the wax plant”
[15:20] Where Hoya got its name
[15:40] General Care Guidelines for All Hoyas
[16:29] Doug's Setup Up (and humidity hacks)
[19:50] What does a sunburn look like on a Hoya leaf?
[21:00] Best Watering Practices for Hoya
[24:00] Words of encouragement from Doug when you have a hoya fail
[25:30] If Hoyas like to be potbound
[26:26] How to pot up a hoya
[27:50] Best potting mix for a Hoya
[32:00] What is a peduncle?
[33:50] What is bud blast?
[34:27] Why does a hoya bud fall off before it blooms?
[35:15] How to get your hoya to bloom
[38:00] How frequently does a Hoya bloom
[39:00] Is there a hack to force Hoya to flower?
[39:30] 5 Easiest Hoyas to Care for
[44:20] Rarer Hoya's for Advanced Plant Parents
[47:10] Matchmaking for the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personalities!
[53:00] How to fertilize hoyas
[54:00] Propagation tips
[57:00] Tips for stimulating leaf growth

Mentioned in our conversation:

See photo gallery for names and pictures of all Hoyas mentioned
KLN Concentrate Rooting Hormone

Struggling to keep your Hoya blooming all year round?

Follow Doug:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here for Ara's easy-to-follow guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Indoor Houseplant Trellis 101: How to Train Your Vines

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered why your hoyas or pothos sometimes send out those long and wild tendrils that seem to have a mind of their own? I certainly have a windowsill full of hoyas doing this right now. There really isn’t a super “secret” technique. Most of our houseplants are just natural climbers that grow up trees in search of light and use those tendrils for support. So I invited over my new plant friend, Ara from Propagation Diaries, to share her best tips about everything you need to know about indoor houseplant trellises, whether it be choosing the right style and material or getting it secure in your pot and training those vines without breaking a leaf! Let's tidy up!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:45] Ara’s plant care journey
[03:35] How Ara fell in love with Hoyas!
[06:59] What trellising really does for your houseplants
[08:22] What are the benefits of trellising a houseplant?
[09:44] Spotting tendrils: your sign it’s time to add a trellis
[10:34] Getting even light exposure by growing vertically
[11:30] How (and when) to attach your plants to the trellis
[12:06] Creative trellis hacks
[13:05] What are the different types of trellis?
[15:03] Espoma Organic
[16:49] Choosing the right material and shape for your plant’s needs
[18:10] Best practices for establishing a plant with a trellis
[20:34] When to add a trellis
[23:20] How do you upgrade to a bigger trellis without hurting your plant?
[24:35] What’s the #1 mistake people make when trellising Hoyas?
[26:44] What’s the mysterious “counterclockwise rule” for trellising Hoyas?
[27:46] How to gently guide delicate Hoya tendrils
[28:25] Tips to get a hoya to bloom (light, humidity, and airflow)
[30:54] What type of hoyas should you get?
[31:54] Pest prevention tips for your hoya
[34:10] Where can you find Ara’s aesthetic trellises and accessories?

Mentioned in our conversation:

A little nervous about installing your trellis and tying your plants?

Follow Ara:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to actually make them work for your plants!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grow Lights for Plants with Leslie Halleck: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that brightness has nothing to do with how much energy your plants actually receive from light? In this episode, I’m joined by horticulturist and author Leslie Halleck, who literally wrote the book Gardening Under Lights. Together, we’ll break down the science of indoor grow lights in a simple, approachable way—so you can confidently choose the right setup to keep your plants thriving all winter long (and beyond).

In this episode, we learn:

What Leslie’s personal grow light set up is
What photosynthesis is
Why light is important for plants
What the different colors of light do for plants and why “full spectrum” grow lights are so important
Lumens vs PAR vs Kelvin = how to measure light
What the best choice of grow lights for indoor houseplants are
Defining “bright indirect” for a grow light
Patreon Plant Friend and listener Questions!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Leslie's books: Gardening Under Lights and Plant Parenting: Easy Ways to Make New Houseplants
Soltech Solutions: soltechsolutions.com
Modern Sprout: modernsprout.com
Bloom and Grow Amazon Grow light Storefront: http://bit.ly/growlightep

Wondering if your plants need grow lights this season?

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the show notes and full blog here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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The Beginner’s Guide to Starting a Garden from Scratch

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Where do you even start if your dream is to turn that blank slate into a gorgeous garden? You’ve just moved into a new house. The keys are in your hands, you’re staring at your front door and also at a lot of lawn and maybe some unappealing landscaping. Good thing, plant friends, that I got to dive into this question with ecologist, writer, and new author Becky Searle (@sow_much_more), who just wrote Grow a New Garden! The book is all about how garden design can work with instead of against nature, so you can create the most low-maintenance, balanced garden possible. Let's get started!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:49] How Becky’s background in ecology shaped her gardening style
[03:45] Writing Grow a New Garden during lockdown
[06:03] Becky's different homes and the changes to her garden
[07:37] What’s the one rose that follows Becky to every home?
[09:16] Propagating roses: soil vs. water cuttings
[11:23] Native vs. diverse plantings: what really helps pollinators prosper?
[12:47] Why is biodiversity important?
[14:28] How I let nature lead instead of controlling it
[15:24] Give your plants the best with Espoma Organic's chemical-free soils, fertilizers, and plant foods!
[16:36] Move from overwhelm to action with the Square Foot Gardening Planner!
[18:05] Why you shouldn’t design a garden like an interior space
[19:09] How to survive the pest invasion phase?
[20:46] What steps should you take to get your garden functioning as an ecosystem?
[24:18] How to track light and shade before you plant
[25:41] The LEGO hack to visualize sunlight throughout the year
[27:25] What to build first? (sheds, ponds, greenhouses, and compost areas)
[28:37] Why potted plants help you “test-drive” your design
[29:39] How to choose the right plants for your soil, light, and climate
[31:28] What are plant communities?
[32:55] Becky’s favorite combo: rudbeckia, grasses, and alchemilla mollis
[34:37] Common beginner mistakes in garden design
[38:38] Where should you look for inspiration to design your garden? (beyond Pinterest)
[40:46] Why talking to local gardeners beats Googling every question
[42:16] Becky’s advice for first-time homeowners starting their first garden!
[43:19] Where can you find Becky and her book Grow a New Garden?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Grow a New Garden by Becky Searle

For beginner gardening tips from gardening expert Becky Searle,

Follow Becky:

Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Square Foot Gardening Planner

Pre-order The Square Foot Gardening Planner (coming October 21, 2025) at quarto.com or find it wherever you buy gardening books — and start transforming your blank space into a flourishing garden.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the philosophy and basic care principles that make Bonsai a beautiful, lifelong practice!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Intro to the Art of Bonsai: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 9 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What if caring for a tiny tree could teach you patience, presence, and even a new way of looking at life? That, plant lovers, is the magic of the art of Bonsai. It is a very specific practice that requires very specific care that I often get questions about. And so today I've decided to re-release an old episode where I interviewed Bonsai master, Bjorn from Eisei-en Bonsai.

You might know him from his incredible YouTube videos all about Bonsai basics: what makes Bonsai different, their growing media, how you care for them, the fascinating history, and the philosophy behind Bonsai. I am so excited to re-release this episode because I just gifted my husband his first Bonsai, so I can't wait to send him this episode so he can support his bonsai that he's keeping in his office.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:04:44] How Bjorn became the bonsai expert he is today
[00:05:35] How long does a bonsai apprenticeship take? What are typical duties for a bonsai apprentice?
[00:07:31] Bjorn shares his experience in Japan and being an apprentice
[00:09:16] How to properly pronounce ‘bonsai’ and what it means
[00:09:40] What is a bonsai? How do you classify a tree as a bonsai tree?
[00:10:56] Can you turn any tree into a bonsai?
[00:11:54] Apical dominance vs lateral dominance
[00:14:14] How to measure bonsais and the different bonsai size classifications: shohin and chuhin
[00:16:03] Where did bonsais originate from?
[00:17:43] How do you differentiate between indoor bonsais and outdoor bonsais? What are great plants for both types?
[00:19:29] How much light do bonsais need?
[00:20:25] The basic bonsai potting mix: pumice, lava rock, and akadama (yes, it’s Japanese!)
[00:22:01] How much fertilizer does your bonsai need? What kind of fertilizer should you apply to your bonsai?
[00:23:26] Bonsai and teabags: how to ‘tea’ your bonsai when adding fertilizer
[00:24:19] Why growing bonsais is about practicing control
[00:25:00] How to take care of sick bonsai trees and what the long-term goal is for growing bonsais
[00:26:02] What bonsais can teach us about patience & wellness
[00:26:20] Where to get the best soil mixes for all plant needs
[00:27:36] How to keep deer and wildlife from your garden
[00:29:27] Do you want your bonsais to bloom?
[00:30:51] How often should you water bonsais? Bjorn gives us the how-to and why’s on watering bonsais
[00:34:32] Bonsai and shade cloths: where should you place your bonsai? What is a bonsai’s ideal light situation?
[00:36:20] Bonsai pruning 101
[00:37:32] Plant nerd facts: what are the growth hormones auxin and cytokine and what do they do?
[00:40:05] Why are bonsai trees in small and shallow pots?
[00:41:20] How much of a bonsai tree’s roots should you prune?
[00:42:48] Why spring is the best time to prune your bonsai
[00:43:41] Root galls and how to properly remove them
00:45:58] How do you prune bonsai shoots? When and how do you use copper or aluminum wires to shape your bonsai?
[00:49:32] The concept of mochikomi
[00:50:28] The biggest mistakes people make when it comes to bonsais
[00:52:08] Bjorn’s recommendations for beginner bonsai growers
[00:55:39] Where to get the best bonsais online
[00:56:43] Winterizing your bonsai tree
[00:58:27] What is the best bonsai tree pest treatment?
[01:00:10] Why everyone should try bonsai!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Knoxville Bonsai Society
Brussels Bonsai
Eisei-en Bonsai's YouTube video Sekka Hinoki from Simple Material
Bloom and Grow's YouTube video Top 5 Bonsai Trees (Indoor and Outdoor Options) with Bjorn from Eisei-en Bonsai

Ready to learn the art of bonsai & how a tiny tree can grow your joy?

Follow Bjorn:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here for my time-friendly tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Digital Detox: What 3 Days in Nature Taught Me (and How You Can Recreate It at Home)

Tue, 7 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Interested in joining Maria on a retreat like this? Join the waitlist! http://growingjoywithmaria.com/retreat

Three days with no phone, no laptop, no social media notifications buzzing in my ear. It’s just me, the forest, and goats that became some of my best friends! And I achieved all of this when I visited Hemlock Neversink in Castskills last month to commit a full digital detox. I swapped screen time for barefoot hikes, yoga, forest bathing, goat cuddles, painting under the trees, and even a little moss-gazing. And my nervous system hit reset in a way I didn’t even realize I needed.

So I really encourage you to try it, but you don't have to run away to the woods for three days to feel these benefits. I'm going to share what I learned during my retreat and how you can create your own digital detox at home, even if you've only got 15 minutes. Let's plunge in!

Interested in joining Maria on a retreat like this? Join the waitlist! http://growingjoywithmaria.com/retreat

Here is a referral link for the Opal app (not sponsored): http://growingjoywithmaria.com/opal

Get 15% off a stay at Hemlock Neversink of your own with code GROWINGJOY at http://growingjoywithmaria.com/hemlock

In this episode, we learn:

[03:28] 3 days, no phone, no social media (my digital detox in Hemlock Neversink!)
[03:59] Behind the scenes: burnout, grief, and moving to Florida
[06:30] How life changes (and Florida's climate shift) increased my digital consumption
[09:00] What makes Hemlock Neversink the perfect nature reset?
[10:03] Themed retreat days: release, realign, reimagine
[10:55] How does time in nature reset your nervous system? sympathetic vs. parasympathetic nervous system
[11:24] What is Attention Restoration Theory?
[13:47] Goat hikes! Meet my new goat best friend!
[15:22] Give a gift that celebrates their love with every gentle breeze with Wind River Chimes!
[17:11] Find rooted joy and gentle beauty in your everyday life with A Year of Garden-Inspired Living by Linda Vater!
[18:37] Painting in nature, crafts, and screen-free creativity!
[21:29] How I released stress through daily yoga, hikes, and massage
[22:42] Restoring with books, moss gazing, and barefoot grounding
[25:36] How addicted are we really to our phones?
[29:58] My interview with Ryan, Hemlock’s Director of Wellness and Spa!
[31:35] Why is the nature component so important for healing?
[34:23] What are some interesting guest transformations at Hemlock?
[37:22] Why intentional resets in nature are so powerful
[38:27] What are the most popular activities on Hemlock? (dance hikes, sound baths, breathwork)
[42:00] How do you build your own retreat at home? (+Hemlock discount for you!)
[50:56] Here’s my gratitude meditation through a song!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Want to do a digital detox but don't have the time?

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: A Year of Garden-Inspired Living by Linda Vater

Preorder A Year of Garden-Inspired Living at quarto.com today or pick it up wherever books are sold, and let the seasons bloom in your life.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Erin’s smart DIY solutions!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DIY Plant Decor for Joyful Living: Vertical Gardens, Grow Shelves & More with Erin Harding: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 2 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Are you running out of space for your plants? Growing your plant collection can be quite the challenge when all your countertops, tablespace and even floorspace have been populated with your plant babies. Don’t fret any longer, plant friends, as we got the most beautiful and mess-free DIY plant decor projects for you to make the most out of your vertical space at home! In this episode, learn alongside me as Erin Harding of @houseplantclub and @cleverbloom gives us step-by-step tutorials on three amazing yet easy DIYs for your vertical garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:25] Maria’s eureka moment for this episode!
[01:53] Updates on country living and hummingbirds
[05:06] Welcome, new Garden Party members!
[06:57] The easiest way to compost your food scraps
[11:06] Who is Erin and how did Clever Bloom and Houseplant Club get started?
[15:14] On the importance of evolving with your plant collection
[18:26] Erin and Morgan’s brilliant first and second books
[22:12] How Erin curated her personal aesthetic and developed her passion for DIY
[24:56] Why accessibility and variety encourage people to DIY
[27:22] Why you should use vertical space for your plants
[31:40] How to make a modern beaded macrame plant hanger
[35:15] The best and most stylish grow lights for your home
[37:14] Where to get humidifiers for your home and for your health!
[39:37] Different ways to customize your macrame plant hanger
[44:41] Step-by-step tutorial of DIY air plant driftwood piece
[48:03] Watering your air plants in your DIY driftwood plant accessory
[50:09] What is a kokedama and how does it work?
[52:04] What are ideal plants to use in a kokedama?
[53:38] How to make your own kokedama
[55:59] Bringing natural beauty into your home through DIY projects
[01:00:12] Erin’s favorite DIY project in her latest book
[01:03:20] Where to find Erin (and Morgan!) online
[01:04:53] A friendly reminder for this fall season

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to plant a room: and grow a happy home, by Morgan Doane and Erin Harding
Growing Joy Episode 16: Mounting Epiphytes And The Creation Of Cleverbloom.Com

Love DIY projects and houseplants?

Follow Erin:

House Plant Club Instagram
Clever Bloom website
Clever Bloom Instagram
Planting Pink Etsy
Planting Pink website
Planting Pink Instagram

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blog for Lindsay's step-by-step!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alocasia Propagation Tutorial: How to Propagate an Alocasia Corm

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, if you’ve hung around the plant community for any amount of time, you know some sub-groups go deep, and one of the most passionate is the Alocasia lovers/enthusiasts. These people are ferocious about their alocasias, and one of their most controversial topics is corm propagation.

If you’ve never heard of it, I hadn’t either until Instagram kept showing me those little plant “nuggets.” So I called in backup: my friend Lindsay Sisti, aka the Alocasia Queen behind All The Plant Babies and the author of the book The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation. She’s been here before in our Fluval Stratum episode. She breeds both Alocasias and Anthuriums and has made it her life's work to create new species and perfect propagation techniques. Let's dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:30] Meet Lindsay Sisti, aka the “Alocasia Queen”!
[04:15] What are some facts about Alocasia?
[06:02] Why is Alocasia popular?
[08:41] Plant anatomy 101: leaves, stems, rhizomes, roots, stolons, and corms!
[15:18] Manukora's premium New Zealand Manuka honey
[16:55] Do corms ever appear above the soil? Leaf-litter vs. pots
[21:58] When is the right time to go “corm spelunking”?
[26:52] Step-by-step: how to harvest Alocasia corms safely
[30:09] Snapping corms, clean hands, and why scissors are optional
[34:20] Should you peel corms before planting? (The “onion layer” trick)
[37:33] Which medium works best (perlite, sphagnum, fluval stratum, or water?)
[40:41] How deep should you plant the corms in the media?
[41:26] How long does it take for corms to sprout?
[43:09] The “puddle method” in water
[45:38] Hardening off: acclimating cormlings
[49:41] Common mistakeswith corms
[55:17] Can a rootless Alocasia be revived?
[56:20] Where to find Lindsay, her book, and her propagation resources

Mentioned in our conversation:

For all corm propagation methods,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get 25% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Scott's top care tips and design ideas!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Monstera Care Guide: Swiss Cheese Plant Propagation Tips & Styling Secrets for Stunning Growth- Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The monstera might just be the most iconic houseplant of all time. Those bold, split leaves show up everywhere in logos, restaurant décor, and home goods, making it instantly recognizable. But bringing a monstera home and helping it thrive so it grows big, beautiful, and full of those signature splits takes a little know-how. Today, we’re revisiting one of my very first 20 episodes of Growing Joy in our Best of series with my plant friend Scott Cain, an Australian plant enthusiast with over 200 plants, including an incredible monstera collection. He’s the creator behind Boys With Plants on Instagram and Tropical Loco, and in this episode, we dive into care tips, design ideas, and strategies to help your monstera flourish. If you’ve got a monstera, listen in because your plant is about to get a whole lot happier.

In this episode, we learn:

How family traditions inspired his current collection
Scott breaks down the 200 plants that fill his apartment that are featured on his Instagram account, @tropicaloco
How Scott has turned Instagram friends into #plantfriendsIRL
His care secrets for dealing with the Australian summer/winter
Why people who work from home should have plants
Monstera care 101: light, watering, fertilizing
Moss poles, what they are and why/if we need them
Aerial roots, what they are and can we trim them?
What fenestrations are
What the difference is in deliciosa/borsigiana/adansonii/obliqua
Scotts pruning practices for his Monstera collection
How to take cuttings of your Monstera to make your plant look more full
Troubleshooting for yellow and brown leaves
Why the Monstera is such an sought after plant
What’s up with variegation
How and why he created @boyswithplants and why he is letting us know that he is the creator
How to get featured on @boyswithplants
The scoop on the new Boys with Plants Book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Want your monstera to grow beautiful leaves?

Follow Scott:

Personal Instagram

Scott's Graphic Design Company

Etsy shop

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Groundcovers That Work: Low-Maintenance Plants for Every Garden

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What if I told you that the most dominant plant in your garden isn't the rose that you love or the towering sunflower, but the little clover, the little guys creeping along the ground? They're called groundcovers, and they fight weeds, save water, prevent erosion, and can even replace your lawn. I had an amazing conversation with Kathy Jentz, author of “Groundcover Revolution,” and we talked about how these humble plants can change your space and make it much more eco-friendly and beautiful.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:52] How Kathy became the plant lady she is today
[02:44] Kathy’s background before she became a full-time plant lady
[04:47] Why Kathy ditched turf for groundcovers
[06:41] Why else should you think about groundcovers?
[08:11] Clovers and pollinators
[09:26] Bee lawns and flowering yards for pollinators
[10:01] Is there a trap crop groundcover for birds?
[12:04] Why artificial turf is bad for soil and trees
[13:54] Can kids and dogs play on groundcovers?
[15:15] Give your groundcover the best start with Espoma Organic’s lawn soil and Bio-tone starter!
[16:50] Protecting tree roots and trunks with groundcovers
[17:35] How tall do groundcovers get?
[18:29] How to choose the right groundcover for you using Kathy’s charts
[19:59] Mixing turf and groundcovers for family yards
[21:39] What is Kathy’s “patchwork” groundcover method?
[23:02] Step-by-step: converting a lawn with the lasagna method
[26:52] Plugs vs. seeds (pros, cons, and budget tips!)
[29:02] What are some mulching tricks + annual flowers for your groundcover?
[30:54] How to sow groundcover seeds for a full summer lawn
[32:42] Are there any groundcovers that require the cold?
[33:37] What are Kathy’s favorite groundcovers?
[35:52] Common mistakes rookies make with groundcovers
[37:47] Where to find Kathy, her book Groundcover Revolution, and her Garden DC podcast?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Ready for low-maintenance garden plants?

Follow Kathy:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn
YouTube
X

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Kevin's simple starter guide!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grow Bag Gardening Secrets from Epic Gardening’s Kevin Espiritu: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

I'm thrilled to be sharing this planty conversation with my #plantfriendIRL, Kevin Espiritu from Epic Gardening! Kevin and I recently met IRL in San Diego and clicked immediately. He is a wonderfully curious Botanical Bro who has the most incredible Urban Gardening setup in his home in San Diego. Our journeys to plant parenthood are very similar but revolve around different passions: indoor (mine) and outdoor (his). Today we talk about our different interests, the similarities and differences between indoor and outdoor gardening, and grow bag gardening for those of us who might want to try gardening outdoors! I hope you find it inspiring to grow your own food in your outdoor space! Kevin's book, Field Guide to Urban Gardening, was just released and would be the perfect companion for anyone curious to learn more about urban gardening and growing your own food!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:40] Kevin's somewhat unsuccessful intro to growing food, and how he became the amazing gardener he is now
[13:09] Differences in our experiences growing indoor and outdoor plants
[22:47] Outdoor container gardening 101- it's the growing season Plant Friends! Let's learn this together!
[24:24] Best plants to start with
[29:47] Best pots, soil and fertilizer to use as a newbie

Mentioned in our conversation:

Buy Kevin's book: Field Guide to Urban Gardening
Visit my Amazon Storefront for the items mentioned

Want to grow basil, tomatoes, or herbs right on your balcony?

Follow Kevin:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Earthing Explained: The Science of Grounding for Better Sleep, Less Pain, and More Energy

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

You've probably heard the phrase, “Go touch grass.” It's usually thrown around online when someone needs to log off and reconnect with reality. But the act of touching grass, literally putting your bare feet or hands on the earth, is scientifically proven to reset your mood. It's known as earthing (or grounding), and it's been proven to reduce inflammation, boost your energy, improve sleep, and even help your body heal. So I specifically sent Dr. Gaétan Chevalier an email to have him on the show to explain everything we need to know about earthing. With 15 years of experience, he’s one of the leading experts in this field, and he’ll explain how our bodies literally need that natural connection to the Earth’s energy.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:49] Meet Dr. Gaétan Chevalier!
[03:23] How Clint Ober introduced earthing in 2003
[07:46] What is earthing?
[09:09] The Earth as a living battery
[12:20] Why is inflammation the root of disease, and how does grounding help?
[19:01] The natural cure for jet lag: 30 minutes barefoot
[19:34] Are earthing and grounding the same practice?
[20:45] How modern life disconnects us from the Earth’s charge
[24:17] What are the benefits people report from daily earthing?
[25:18] Grounding as a bioelectrical reset for the immune system
[28:30] Can grounding be measured? How testers work
[32:28] Grounding houseplants and even cut flowers
[34:12] Grounding indoors
[35:57] PMF devices vs. grounding
[37:00] What are the two things needed for a good home ground system?
[39:29] Why hugging a tree bark won’t ground you (but leaves might)
[40:06] What is the Schumann Resonance?
[42:40] How grounding shields you from electrical “frenzy”
[44:30] Can grounding help offset EMF and cell phone exposure?
[46:59] Where can you learn more about grounding?

Mentioned in our conversation:

To learn more about the benefits of earthing,

Website
Instagram
Facebook Group
Research
Courses
Video Testimonials

Follow Earthing Institute:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: Revered Roots: Ancestral Teachings and Wisdom of Wild, Edible, and Medicinal Plants by LoriaAnn Bird

Grab your copy of Revered Roots at quarto.com and wherever books are sold, and let your next garden walk become a sacred walk with your 'plant teachers'.

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Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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Check out the full show notes and blog to see Lisa’s top low-light plant picks and care tips.

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Low Light Plants for Beginners and Advanced Plant Parents with the Houseplant Guru: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 03:09:43 +0000

Today I welcome Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, otherwise known as the “Houseplant Guru,” to the show for an enlightening conversation about how to care for plants in low-light environments and what the best beginner, advanced, and interesting low-light-tolerant plant choices we can make. We discuss how to truly understand if we have low light and several hacks to capitalize on the light we have, and she suggests some really interesting plants besides your normal pothos, dracaena, and snake plants we know so well. Lisa is the author of Grow in the Dark: How to Choose and Care for Low Light Houseplants and Houseplants: The Complete Guide. I love her books, and I love her!

In this episode, we learn:

How Lisa became “The Houseplant Guru”
How to measure low light with no fancy tools
How to “hack” your way to capitalizing on all the hacks you have
How low light affects your plant care routing
Watering for a low light plant
Phototropism
How Variegated plants are affected by low light
Standard low light plants
Lisa’s 5 more rare and unknown low light plants for advanced plant parents looking for something new!
Patreon Plant Friends and Listener Questions!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Got a dim corner calling for plants?

Follow Lisa

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

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Backyard Transformation: How a First-Time Gardener Nailed It on the First Try

Tue, 9 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, I have to tell you about someone who has completely blown my mind this gardening season! Her name is Lily, and she happens to be my brother's girlfriend, which means I've had a front-row seat to watch her absolutely blossom as a first-time gardener. She nailed it on her first try, and I mean that she has had the most incredible success I think I have ever seen from a beginner. In this episode, you're going to hear about how she and my brother were pretty much harvesting and eating from her garden every single day for the entire summer!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:40] Meet Lily and her garden obsession!
[04:15] What childhood memories inspired Lily’s love for gardening?
[06:16] When did Lily decide to start her first backyard garden?
[06:53] Why did Lily start almost everything from seed?
[09:54] Lily's creative dining room seed-starting setup
[15:00] Refresh your fall garden with ease using Espoma Organic
[16:25] Bring your farmhouse garden dreams to life with The Vintage Farmhouse Garden
[18:46] How did Lily handle pests, heavy rains, and a mosquito invasion?
[22:01] Exploring composting to solve the pear tree problem
[22:58] What surprised Lily the most about gardening?
[24:26] How to freeze tomatoes and preserve the harvest for winter
[25:30] Ice cube tray preservation tricks
[26:06] My ramp butter memories from the Catskills
[27:33] Is canning worth a full day's work?
[28:45] Garden harvest tour: What did Lily grow?
[31:30] Adding a pollinator garden with pest-deterring plants
[33:26] Which medicinal and edible flowers should you try growing?
[36:36] How to use AI in growing plants
[37:17] Lily’s biggest lessons: labels, sunlight, and spacing
[39:04] How gardening brought peace, joy, and connection to Lily’s life
[40:14] Southern tomato pie: Lily’s star garden recipe
[41:25] How Lily used garden-fresh rosemary and pears in her baking
[42:34] Lily’s favorite ways to use her bounty
[43:44] What will Lily focus on growing next year?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 202: How to Can and Ferment Vegetables and Fruits from Your Garden with Stephanie Thurow
Growing Joy Episode 195: Homesteading for Beginners with Michelle Bruhn and Stephanie Thurow

Gardening for the first time?

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Vintage Farmhouse Garden: Your Guide to Creating a Vintage-Inspired Outdoor Space by Rhonda Kaiser

Grab your copy of The Vintage Farmhouse Garden at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for garlic growing tips from an expert!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Never Buy Garlic Again: Garlic Tutorial: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 4 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Garlic is a staple in so many savory dishes, but if you've only ever cooked with the sad grocery store bulbs, it's time to see garlic's true potential by growing your own. The depth of flavor and variety that homegrown garlic offers blows store-bought out of the water. Lucky for us, plant friends, growing our own garlic at home is so easy! In this episode, homesteader extraordinaire Jill Winger walks us through an easy how to grow garlic tutorial, select varieties, grow, harvest, and store your own garlic for a steady supply of flavorful garlic all year long.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:09] Garden Society shoutout
[05:17] What led Jill to embrace homesteading?
[07:01] Check out Jill’s blog and podcast!
[09:29] How Jill's garden has evolved over the years
[11:23] Jill’s early years of homesteading and its long-term evolution
[13:18] Why homesteading involves continuous trial and error
[13:54] How long has Jill been growing garlic?
[14:59] Homegrown vs. store-bought garlic
[15:57] How to select the right garlic to grow
[16:08] Choosing a reputable garlic seed source
[17:24] Softneck vs. hardneck garlic
[24:05] What else is needed to grow garlic besides cloves?
[25:37] When is the best time to plant garlic?
[26:41] Why garlic is low maintenance
[27:28] What steps should be taken to prepare garlic for planting?
[28:32] How deep should you plant the clove under the soil?
[29:21] Why garlic doesn't rot or freeze despite delayed stalk growth in winter
[30:32] What’s the next step after planting garlic?
[32:39] How does the harvest timing affect the taste and texture of garlic scapes and bulbs?
[33:52] How do you know the garlic is ready to harvest?
[35:03] How do you “cure” fresh garlic?
[37:01] Tips for storing garlic for a long time
[38:35] Common garlic growing issues and how to address them
[39:36] Jill’s favorite garlic recipes
[41:35] How did Jill’s homestead slowly evolve?
[43:48] How reconnecting with nature and sustainable living creates a natural ecosystem

Mentioned in our conversation:

Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe
How to Braid Garlic
How to Plant Garlic
How to Braid Onions
Lomi Tabletop Composter
Territorial Seed Garden Garlic Catalogue
Upcoming Book by Jill Old-Fashioned on Purpose
Growing Joy Episode 123 How To Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles And Other Animals In Your Garden With Brie The Plant Lady

Think you want to grow garlic this coming season?

Follow Jill:

Website
Podcast
Instagram
Twitter
YouTube

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Dogs + Houseplants: How to Keep Your Pup Safe (and Your Plants Intact)

Tue, 2 Sep 2025 06:00:44 +0000

If you love your dog as much as you love your monstera or other houseplants, you’ve probably run into this dilemma: how do you keep your plants alive without putting your pup at risk? This has been a problem for plant parents who are also pet parents. Some plants are toxic, some dogs are curious nibblers, and sometimes it feels like your plants and your pets are destined to clash. To figure this out, I talked with Dudley, the plant lover behind Pablo’s Plants on Instagram and TikTok. His brand centers on his golden retriever, Pablo, and he’s here to share with us how to keep both plants and pets safe at home.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Can dogs and houseplants really live in harmony?
[02:06] What does Dudley’s plant setup look like
[02:53] Who is Dudley (aka Pablo’s Plants) and his golden retriever (Pablo)?
[06:45] Who handles the plants better: the cats or Pablo?
[08:18] How do you actually train a dog to “leave it”?
[09:38] Which common houseplants are secretly toxic to pets? (Lilies, pothos, philodendrons)
[12:10] Living with toxic plants: know your pet's personality
[13:20] Bitter apple spray and other deterrent tricks
[14:53] Wind River Chimes
[16:39] Non-toxic plants for pet parents
[18:07] Dudley’s gardening journey
[19:15] Pablo's one toxic plant incident!
[23:06] How did Dudley’s plant business evolve?
[25:59] The hoya love-hate relationship
[28:24] Fragrant orchids (coconut-scented orchids)
[29:31] What does Pablo’s Plants look like today?
[31:55] Craziest deals buyers have taken during auctions on Whatnot & Palmstreet
[33:05] How plant shows turned into a global friend network
[34:57] Plant show strategy: shopping vs. selling vs. networking
[36:16] Where to find him next: PlantCon NYC & IAS Miami
[39”02] Where to shop Pablo’s Plants and join his “coffee & swiping” lives
[40:13] Visit growingjoywithmaria.com/palmstreet and save on your first purchase!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For more pet and plant care tips,

Follow Dudley:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to create your own unique terrarium world!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Food Preservation 101: Canning and Fermenting Guide for Plant Parents: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:54 +0000

If you’re an edible gardener, chances are you’ve found yourself staring at a heaping bowl of tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, or carrots, wondering how on earth you’re going to eat them all before they go bad.

In this Best of Growing Joy replay, I’m revisiting my conversation with Stephanie Thurow, a certified master at food preservation and bestselling author of several books on canning and fermenting. Stephanie shares everything you need to know to get started with home canning while making the whole process feel safe, approachable, and fun.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:06] How Stephanie got into canning and fermenting
[07:42] What's the strategy behind the timing of canning?
[09:53] Difference between canning and fermenting
[11:53] Is fermentation a shelf-stable process like canning, or does it require refrigeration?
[13:37] Why is it advised to consume a spoonful of fermented food each day, such as sauerkraut?
[14:31] What is the storage setup for Stephanie's canned and fermented goods?
[15:22] Materials you need for water bath canning
[16:43] Why is a rack required when using your 4th burner pot for canning?
[19:00] Where can you find premium, handcrafted wind chimes that are perfect for gifting?
[20:32] Where can you find potting mixes, composts, and fertilizers for indoor and outdoor gardening?
[23:05] Steps to prepare for a canning session
[28:28] Common mistakes beginners make when canning
[31:11] What are the basic requirements for fermenting vegetables?
[32:16] Why “The Cottage Garden” is your ultimate resource for understanding the history, evolution, and stunning modern interpretations of cottage garden design
[33:47] Difference between dry salting and brining in fermentation
[35:44] Are there any precautions or cleanliness practices to follow during fermentation?
[36:25] What do you need to know about fermenting basics?
[38:31] What is the recommended timeline for fermenting different types of foods?
[39:36] Common troubleshooting tips for fermenting to avoid issues like mold?
[40:24] Should you follow recipes?
[41:01] Where can you find trusted online recipes for fermentation and canning recipes?
[42:15] What are Stephanie's favorite fermentation and canning recipes?
[46:12] Unique or unusual items Stephanie has tried pickling
[49:12] Where can you find Stephanie’s books online?
[51:30] How do you break the seal on the tightly sealed jars?
[52:35] Where can you find Stephanie on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Ever thought about making your own tiny ecosystem?

Follow Stephanie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Cultivating Abundance and Gratitude in the Garden

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 06:00:39 +0000

What do a theater kid, a Venus flytrap, and a million TikTok followers have in common? Abundance… and my new plant friend Brian from Redleaf Ranch! Brian is the viral TikTok gardener you've probably come across if you spend any time in plant social media. He's the guy who makes you say "abundance!" out loud, and he’s here to talk about his approach to abundance and gratitude, plus how he used gardening as a tool for personal growth and community building.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:42] Meet Brian from Redleaf Ranch!
[02:47] How long has Brian been a theater kid and a plant person?
[04:09] Why carnivorous plants have super tall flowers
[05:06] Growing abundance: winter squash, potatoes, and food that preserves well
[06:20] How Redleaf Ranch began
[09:01] The “vision” moment that made Brian feel at home in the soil
[11:24] Redleaf Ranch + Redleaf Exotics
[14:48] Extend your growing season with Espoma Organic
[16:23] Learn 75 plant facts with the book Plants with Superpowers by David Domoney
[21:21] What Kevin from Epic Gardening taught us
[22:53] Plant blindness to plant awakening
[25:43] How “abundance!” became Brian’s signature catchphrase
[29:24] Why abundance is a mindset, not just volume
[31:34] How to find abundance during dark times
[34:58] What is his mindfulness practice?
[36:29] Why hand watering the garden is Brian’s meditation
[37:49] Content creation vs. market farming
[42:28] Strategic content creation with seasonal boundaries
[42:49] What’s next for Redleaf?
[44:17] Nature's rule: plants live/thrive in community
[45:46] Where to find Brian and his book "Gardening for Abundance" and connect with Redleaf Ranch

Mentioned in our conversation:

Interested in adapting the abundance mindset?

Follow Brian:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: Plants with Superpowers by David Domoney

Pick up Plants with Superpowers at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to create your own unique terrarium world!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Terrariums, Vivariums & Paludariums: Plant Lovers Guide to Mindful Gardening Indoors: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 06:00:56 +0000

What if your next plant project wasn’t just a container of soil and greenery—but a living, breathing world? In this Best of Growing Joy episode, we revisit a wonderful conversation I had a couple years back with terrarium expert Patricia from Doodle Bird Terrariums to explore the captivating art of creating terrariums, paludariums, and vivariums—miniature ecosystems that blend plants, animals, water, and even mist into magical displays. Because let's be real, in times like these, we need a little more whimsy in our lives. So get ready to get inspired to build your own thriving little universe, no matter your experience level.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:47] The magic of terrariums
[05:22] How Patricia became the plant lady she is today
[06:33] Why Patricia loves terrariums
[07:03] How terrariums can have restorative effects on people
[09:02] What are the differences among terrariums, vivariums, and paladariums?
[11:56] What are the benefits of growing plants in terrariums?
[12:32] What are common terrarium problems and how do you solve them?
[14:36] How do you put isopods in your terrarium?
[15:55] Maria’s first terrarium story
[17:45] How different is it to set up a terrarium, a vivarium, and a paladarium?
[18:39] What materials do you need for a basic terrarium?
[20:30] Open terrariums vs closed terrariums
[21:45] Where can you source terrarium containers?
[23:25] Which plants are NOT recommended for terrariums?
[25:56] Can you use beneficial insects in an open terrarium?
[27:19] How much soil is needed in terrariums?
[31:22] How to plant up a terrarium
[32:21] Patricia’s recommended drainage layer setup
[34:06] How do you water a terrarium? What water should you use for terrariums?
[36:21] How often should you open a closed terrarium?
[37:23] Patricia’s most recommended plants for terrariums
[39:38] How do you set up a vivarium?
[42:03] Can you use driftwood in a vivarium?
[42:58] The best starter pets to put in a vivarium
[45:05] Bigger plants to use in a vivarium
[46:42] How to feed your vivarium animals
[48:19] Where to get tiny and cute terrarium figurines
[49:18] What is the biggest must-know when installing paladariums?
[51:16] Do you clean the water in paladariums? Do you change it?
[52:47] The most common terrarium care mistakes and questions
[57:26] Where to find Patricia online
[59:26] Maria and Billy’s terrarium plans!
[01:00:08] Thank you so much for the pre-orders, plant friends!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 19: Terrarium 101 with @teenytinyterra
A Family Guide to Terrariums by Patricia Buzo

Ever thought about making your own tiny ecosystem?

Follow Patricia:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Get my new Houseplant SOS course here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Fungus Gnats, Failing Fiddle Leaf Figs & The Gap of Death: Fix Your Top 3 Plant Problems

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:00:42 +0000

If you’ve ever watched your fiddle leaf fig drop all its leaves, battled fungus gnats that fly into your ear, or poured water on your plant only to watch it run straight through the pot without soaking in, this is your wake-up call. I called in the big guns for this one with my plant friend Mandi from Happy Happy Houseplant. Between our two communities, these are the plant problems we get asked about the most, and she’s got science-backed fixes for each of them. We’re going to be talking about failing fiddle leaf figs, fungus gnats that refuse to leave, and that dreaded “gap of death” in your soil. So let's get to it!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:26] Get to know my “Plant SOS” mini-course!
[05:29] How Happy Happy Houseplant began
[09:51] How did Mandi grow a million-follower plant brand on IG?
[15:16] Wind River Chimes
[17:03] The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation
[27:35] Problem #1: Why people kill their fiddle leaf figs
[28:24] The #1 factor in fiddle leaf success
[31:08] How to trigger growth for fiddle leaf figs
[34:32] Fertilizing and leaf cleaning tips for fiddle leaf figs
[36:50] Problem #2: The gap of death (hydrophobic soil)
[37:30] Hydration Renew product for soil rehydration
[39:23] Large plant repotting challenges
[43:39] Problem #3: Fungus gnats
[44:12] How fungus gnats show up
[46:06] How do you treat fungus gnats?
[46:45] What are death drops?
[47:12] Does cinnamon work for fungus gnats?
[54:43] What’s the biggest surprise in Mandi’s plant journey?
[56:30] Who does Mandi look up to in the plant space?
[59:59] Where to find Happy Happy Houseplant and their products?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Having a hard time getting rid of those fungus gnats?

Check out the full show notes and blog here for Mandi's tips!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation by Lindsay Sisti

Grab your copy of The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation at quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what to expect in your first year as an orchid parent!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Garden Pests: Top Ways to Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles and Voles for Stress Free Living: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 06:00:46 +0000

When I polled our listener community about your top requests for outdoor garden-related episodes, the number one request surprised me: it wasn’t managing fertilizer, succession planting, or garden design. It was how to manage pesky garden pests! Today, I have the answer to your prayers: Brie from briegrows.com walks us through such a comprehensive list of practices and solutions for managing pests and other critters in the garden. This conversation really helps us rethink the way we approach animals in the garden, and I’m excited for you to learn from Brie as I did!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:06:05] How Brie became Brie The Plant Lady
[00:08:59] Brie shares her greatest achievement in plant propagation
[00:11:29] Maria’s experience with squirrels and deer in the garden
[00:14:15] Do we call them ‘pests’ or ‘animals’?
[00:21:03] How to use hot peppers as animal repellent
[00:24:18] Different and easy ways to use peppermint oil as animal repellent (hint: seashells!)
[00:26:49] How to prevent squirrels and chipmunks from digging holes in your garden beds
[00:30:20] Vole king bags vs chicken wire planters
[00:32:47] How to deal with moles in the garden
[00:33:21] Why you should use less mulch in the garden
[00:39:16] Do you need to worry about burrowing animals if you have raised beds?
[00:43:14] Squirrel damage vs groundhog damage
[00:45:29] Setting up a wildlife camera for better animal surveillance in the garden
[00:49:24] The best and easiest deer fence kits for your garden
[00:54:25] The different plants that help repel rabbits
[00:57:26] How often should you apply repellents to your plants?
[01:01:50] How to install hedges and streamers that keep deer away
[01:13:33] The rookie mistakes gardeners make when trying to keep animals from the garden

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Foodscape Revolution by Brie Arthur
Gardening with Grains by Brie Arthur
The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife by Nancy Lawson
Deer‑Resistant Design: Fence‑free Gardens that Thrive Despite the Deer by Karen Chapman

Have you ever tried to rebloom an orchid?

Follow Brie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out LoriAnn's guide in the full show notes and blog.

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plants Are Our Relatives: Exploring Ancestral Wisdom and the 5 Rs of Herbalism

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 06:00:34 +0000

I thought I had a pretty deep connection with plants. I mean, this podcast is literally about talking to them (and about them). But after 300+ episodes, this is the only conversation that impacted my daily interaction with plants. My guest, LoriAnn Bird, an Indigenous Métis herbalist and author of Revered Roots, introduced a concept of “plants as our relatives.” Elders. Teachers. Sovereign beings. And once you start viewing them that way, you can’t unsee it. You will realize that we all need to take care of what takes care of us. Listen in and join the conversation!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:56] What does “ indigenous plants” mean for LoriAnn?
[06:18] How LoriAnn developed her close relationship with nature
[08:51] What it means to be a Métis woman
[10:39] Being raised in a privileged Eurocentric view
[12:10] How herbalism came into LoriAnn’s life
[14:53] Gift a soothing and personalized Wind River Chime for any special occasion, and get a free engraving!
[17:06] Why the book was structured to start with relationships
[17:41] The 5 Rs of plant relationship
[24:17] Understanding our relatives: rooted, stone, and flying nations
[28:44] What's the connection between humans and birds?
[30:29] The story of “Sky Woman”
[32:03] Birth, life, death, rebirth - continuous cycles
[33:39] Honorable harvest and reciprocal foraging
[35:58] Asking permission from landowners when foraging
[38:19] How to get started with herbalism
[39:47] Your garden may already be full of medicine
[41:11] Where to get the book ‘Revered Roots’
[43:00] Meet your local herbalist!
[43:19] "Ancestral" vs "indigenous" in the book title

Mentioned in our conversation:

If you're looking to connect deeper with your plants and with the world,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what to expect in your first year as an orchid parent!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stop Killing Orchids: Orchid Care Guide: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 7 Aug 2025 06:00:43 +0000

We are joined by Chris today for another installment of our Plant Science Series featuring The Sill! Orchid 101 is near and dear to my heart because I STRUGGLE with orchids, and Chris has been my go-to resource for personal orchid care. So I knew he would be the perfect guest to have come on the show and answer your orchid care questions!

If you don’t know already, The Sill is a plant brand with two brick-and-mortar shops in NYC and an online shop that delivers nationwide. Their quality of plants and the way they ship plants is unparalleled. Their pots are some of my most treasured pots that I own and are locally sourced. They have a huge focus on education with awesome online classes and in-person classes in their stores, and they just started the Plant Parent Club! The PPC is their monthly plant subscription service. When you join their club, you get a monthly surprise plant delivery, and included in the membership is also access to all of their online workshops and free shipping on any other plants. So if you are interested in anything I’ve just mentioned, visit www.thesill.com.

In this episode, we learn:

Why Orchids have a reputation for being difficult, and why they can be intimidating
What an orchid is and where we find them in nature
The anatomy of an orchid
Myth Busting on ice cubes, level of difficulty, fertilizer
Orchid care: light and watering
Orchid bark—how necessary is it? What is it?
Is it ok to buy orchids at your local grocery store or Trader Joe’s/Whole Foods
What does a year as a new orchid parent look like (from buying an orchid in full bloom to then having the blooms die and getting the plant to rebloom)
Fertilizer: to use or not to use
Myth busting: Are ice cubes a good idea for watering?
Listener questions
Why everyone should try growing an orchid

Mentioned in our conversation:

GJ Episode 133: How To Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles And Other Animals In Your Garden With Brie The Plant Lady
GJ Episode 30: Orchid 101 With Chris
GJ Episode 84 : African Violets 101 With Lisa
Order Lisa’s book “Bloom: The secrets of growing flowering houseplants year-round”

Have you ever tried to rebloom an orchid?

Follow Chris Satch:

Follow The Sill:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4 Recipes for Your Abundant Zucchini and Cucumber Harvests

Tue, 5 Aug 2025 06:00:45 +0000

Are you looking at your basket filled with zucchini (and cucumbers) that you’ve harvested this summer? You might also be wondering what you can do with them because there’s only so much roasted zucchini and pickled cucumber one person can take. You’re in the perfect place, because in this episode, I invited one of my favorite plant people, Kaleb Wyse of Wyse Guide. Kaleb’s a modern homesteader, gardener, storyteller, and now a New York Times bestselling cookbook author!

He joined us to chat about all the ways to actually enjoy your zucchini harvests aside from your typical zoodles! These four recipes are from Kaleb’s book There’s Always Room at the Table, and they’re flavorful, comforting, and super doable. Time to cook!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:50] Meet Kaleb Wyse from Wyse Guide
[05:44] What type of gardener is Kaleb?
[06:18] Zone 5B growing conditions
[09:02] How can you find boundaries in your gardening practice?
[10:16] Kaleb's #1 advice for new gardeners
[12:21] My Floridian challenges!
[15:21] Revive your garden's late-season growth with Espoma Organic’s high-quality products!
[16:20] Kaleb’s gardening philosophy and childhood stories
[19:48] Zucchini growing tips: when and how to plant
[21:45] Eating zucchini flowers (stuffed with goat cheese)
[22:27] Growing zucchini on the ground vs. trellising?
[24:05] The inspiration behind his cookbook, ‘There’s Always Room at the Table’?
[26:55] What is Kaleb’s favorite zucchini recipe?
[28:31] How to prevent zucchini from going mushy
[29:36] More zucchini recipes!
[32:42] Using dill flower heads for pickling
[33:53] Quick pickle vs. normal pickle
[35:09] Zucchini dip as a sandwich spread
[36:16] Zucchini fritters recipe
[38:37] Does Kaleb grow his own garlic?
[39:42] Fermenting garlic and honey for health and flavor
[40:56] Zucchini loaf cake recipe
[44:27] Where to follow Kaleb and get his cookbook

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Kaleb's easy yet delicious zucchini recipes,

Follow Kaleb:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how your brain responds to plant care!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Indoor Plants Affect Your Mental Health: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 06:00:24 +0000

Today’s episode is about exactly what the title says: our brains… on plants, and what happens in our brains when we become plant people. When I was starting to move from plant killer to crazy plant lady, I noticed there were a few months at the beginning of my plant collection where I felt like the love for plants kind of took over my life. I was constantly buying new plants, going to plant shops, and researching plants on the internet. I was having so much fun with this new hobby, but for a moment, it felt like I couldn’t stop. Billy had to have a little intervention with me to slow me down and make sure we had the space and knowledge of the plants we already had. With his help (or maybe insistence), I put myself on a plant pause, which helped snap me out of that obsessive moment. But I’ve always thought about that particular phase in my life when I couldn’t stop.

Enter Dr. Caitlin Vander Weele, the answer to my “plant-iest” and “expert-iest” of dreams. Caitlin is not only an awesome listener of Growing Joy but also a neuroscientist and author with over 10 years of expertise in understanding how emotions and brain chemistry influence decision-making. She is also the founder of Interstellate, a movement that blends science and art with visual imagery to promote science education. Caitlin is really, really smart. And she is also a crazy plant lady, and this conversation blew my mind.

In this episode, we learn:

How Caitlin became a crazy plant lady
Maria gets real with Caitlin and explains the addictive behaviors she experienced early into plant parenthood.
Caitlin breaks down what exactly was happening in Maria’s brain in those first few months of buying as many plants as possible
What causes our brain to release dopamine and what it is
What compulsive behavior is
What our brain on dopamine does
What neurotransmitters, synapses and receptors are
The difference between endorphins and dopamine
Why we feel bonded to our plants: enter oxytocin
How these things are measured in our brains
4 phases of compulsive behaviors to look out for
How to cope with compulsive urges when growing your urban jungle

Looking for more reasons to justify your plant addiction?

Follow Caitlin:

Follow Stellate:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Exploring 14 Types of Pothos: From Marble Queen to Albo to Climbing Giants

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:01 +0000

Your plant parent story might have started with some humble pothos. It’s forgiving, fast-growing, and honestly, it’s probably the most underrated plant in most of our collections. But there is so much more to the pothos that you might be missing out on. So in this episode, we’re going to talk about pothos way beyond the basics with the help of my plant friend Justin Hancock of Costa Farms.

Justin started in horticultural publishing before joining Costa Farms to assist with their marketing. His role at Costa Farms now involves testing how new plant varieties hold up with different light/watering/environment conditions, and making sure the average person can be successful with them. Let’s dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Why Pothos might be the most underrated plant in your collection
[02:14] Meet Justin Hancock from Costa Farms!
[03:09] Justin’s lifelong plant passion and career path
[04:37] What Justin does at Costa Farms
[05:20] Why Pothos is having a comeback moment
[07:45] Where do pothos come from?
[08:16] Pothos or Epipremnum or... something else? What makes a pothos a pothos?
[09:17] Why pothos is called "Devil's Ivy"
[09:46] Pothos vs philodendron vs scindapsus
[11:50] How do we care for pothos?
[13:05] Indirect light and what plants actually want
[15:24] Moss poles vs. fence planks
[16:03] How to make Pothos look so lush and full
[17:35] What’s the #1 problem with pothos care?
[18:19] What are the different pothos varieties?
[20:19] How do you specifically care for variegated pothos?
[22:26] How Costa Farms discovers new varieties around the world
[24:24] How Shangri-La and Champs-Élysées came to be
[27:18] The trend of fenestrated Pothos is here
[27:49] Rapid-fire matchmaking: which Pothos fits your personality?
[29:57] What is Costa Farms and where to find their plants
[31:04] Where to follow Justin and Costa Farms online

Mentioned in our conversation:

For pothos recommendations based on your plant parent personality,

Follow Costa Farms:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for easy-care options that bloom beautifully!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

21 Indoor Plants that Bloom: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 06:00:36 +0000

Indoor Plants are celebrated for their amazing foliage, but I think we overlook another amazing ability, a specific subcategory our favorite indoor plants have — the ability to bloom! Some people say we are intrinsically connected to flowers because, way back when, they signified fruit.

Personally, I just think they are joyful as hell with their bright colors, and let's be frank, we all need a little more joy and color in our lives. To give us a better grasp of this beautiful subcategory, I've invited back Lisa of The Houseplant Guru to talk about the must-knows of houseplants that bloom and how reconnecting with this group of plants can help us reconnect to generations we might never know.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:13] Maria’s garden updates
[04:15] Introducing Lisa, a beloved Growing Joy guest
[06:38] African violets and their underrated beauty
[08:27] What are the differences in plant care between foliage houseplants and blooming houseplants?
[13:25] How long should grow lights stay on for flowering houseplants?
[14:13] How does photoperiod affect the bloom cycle of a plant?
[15:42] Can you put orchids under grow lights?
[16:59] Do blooming houseplants need fertilizer?
[20:24] What to do when your orchids don’t bloom
[25:10] How to get orchids to re-bloom
[26:26] Maria and Lisa share their thoughts about collecting plants and moving homes
[29:51] Best blooming houseplants for beginners
[30:59] Why do you need to turn your holiday cactus all year round?
[31:53] What is the trick for beautiful and healthy African violets?
[33:36] Best blooming houseplants for beginners (continued)
[36:17] Best blooming houseplants for intermediates
[38:38] Are Gerbera daisies appropriate houseplants?
[39:37] How to make blooms last longer
[40:37] Should you fertilize your plant while it is in bloom?
[41:04] Lisa’s favorite blooming houseplants
[41:44] Where to get Lisa’s latest book!
[43:27] Maria’s personal story on how blooming plants connected generations of their family
[48:17] Closing remarks

Mentioned in our conversation:

GJ Episode 133: How To Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles And Other Animals In Your Garden With Brie The Plant Lady
GJ Episode 30: Orchid 101 With Chris
GJ Episode 84 : African Violets 101 With Lisa
Order Lisa’s book “Bloom: The secrets of growing flowering houseplants year-round”

Do you think blooming houseplants are too tricky?

Follow Lisa:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Houseplant Trends, Tips & Hot Takes: Live from the Southeast Plant Show

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:00:41 +0000

This year, I had the joy of hosting a live Growing Joy popup at the Southeast Plant Show. I’ve been fortunate to attend a few plant events lately, but this one felt special in a way that’s hard to describe. The energy was electric! The people were overflowing with joy, and the plants were everything.

If you love to connect with plant people, discover trending varieties, and just soak up good vibes, the Southeast Plant Show is a must. It’s a plant parent’s dream, with over 120 vendors representing everything from tropical houseplants to handmade pots (even snakes). Here’s a compilation of my conversations with different plant vendors, influencers, and company owners! They share trending houseplants, expert tips, and juicy hot takes about your favorite plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:16] Erica Parker, founder & creator of Southeast Plant Show! Southeast Plant Show | @southeastplantshow
[05:49] Wade Richards - Plants by Wade Lee | @plantsbywadelee
[09:18] Jeannie Tejeda - @urbnflockr | Urbnflockr | TikTok
[13:17] Ben - Trapped Nursery | @trappednursery
[16:43] Ara - Propagation Diaries | @propagationdiaries
[20:03] Adam Golan - @pourednh | @pouredllc | YouTube
[23:49] Jenni - @gazinggreen
[26:35] Jocelyn Ho - Rare Plant Fairy | @rareplantfairy
[29:41] Leslie Patton - @_lottap | Not Your Average Sansevieria
[32:42] Carlos Nieto - @carlosalocasias_leafandreef | Leaf and Reef Facebook
[35:35] Colah B Tawkin - @blackinthegarden | Black in the Garden - Podcast
[39:36] Cass Marion - @plantaddicted_cass
[43:20] Davida Freeman (CPMG Studio Press) - @condoplantmama
[45:38] Lakeisha Jones - @pinkpothosatl | @pinkpothosatl | TikTok
[48:27] Jess Gaston - @live.glow.grow | liveglowgrow | TikTok
[52:00] Joshua Hite - Plant Zaddy | @infinite_hite
[53:54] Lauren (Lauren's Fairy Garden) - @stufflaurendoes_ | @stufflaurendoes_ | TikTok
[58:33] Carley Crutchfield - @theproblemplant | @theproblemplant | TikTok
[59:49] Derek Haynes - @thechocolatebotanist | The Chocolate Botanist
[01:02:37] Angelina - Palmstreet | @palmstreetapp

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy 147: How to Care For Carnivorous Plants Indoors

Special Thanks to:

Ara (@propagationdiaries) and Scott (@top_cut_plants) for coordination of the podcast

Josh (@plantzaddyclub) and Marcus (@plantdecoatl) for the production and design of the podcast lounge)

For your favorite influencers' hottest plant takes,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the best beginner tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Build Your Dream DIY Greenhouse: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:00:28 +0000

I feel like there comes a time in every plant parent's life when we start to get really curious and excited about having a dedicated space for all of our plants. If you are an outdoor gardener, the promise of a greenhouse for seed starts and overwintering plants is even more promising! I’ve had several different moments in life where I’ve Googled greenhouse kits but never crossed the finish line due to the overwhelming and somewhat intimidating aspect of installing them properly (and the price tag). Hopefully, this episode will set you up for success if you feel like you’re ready to take the leap of installing a greenhouse!

In this episode, we learn:

[11:35] Things to consider before planning a greenhouse
[12:28] Why do you need a license for your personal greenhouse?
[15:00] What direction should a greenhouse face?
[16:44] Pros and cons of different greenhouse materials
[20:29] DIY greenhouse vs greenhouse kit
[25:07] What to consider for your greenhouse flooring
[30:52] Different types of greenhouses and ventilation settings
[33:08] How to calculate greenhouse heating and ventilation requirements
[34:31] Different types of fans and vents for greenhouse ventilation
[39:16] How much does a good beginner greenhouse cost?
[43:37] How greenhouses help in pest control and management
[45:45] Troubleshooting greenhouse ventilation and humidity issues
[46:40] What is the ideal temperature for a greenhouse?
[50:12] Greenhouse #1: Amy’s apartment-deck greenhouse in cold Massachusetts
[53:27] Greenhouse #2: Tiffany’s indoor greenhouse for 200+ plants
[59:28] Greenhouse #3: Kristin’s fully-customized permanent greenhouse from a kit
[01:05:48] Greenhouse #4: Eric’s Instagrammable East Nash Greenhouse with recycled windows

Mentioned in our conversation:

Patrick's other blogs: Sublime Succulents & Self-Sustaining Ecosystem
Domino Magazine article: How a Stylist DIY-ed Her Dream Greenhouse From a Prefab Kit

Interested to learn more about greenhouses?

Follow this episode's guests:

Patrick / greenhouseinfo.com: Greenhouse Info | Email

Andi and Eric / East Nashville Greenhouse: Instagram

Kristin / Tending West: Instagram | Newsletter | Website

Tiffany / plantmahmah: Instagram | Email

Amy Lefavour: Instagram

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tree Communication: The Science and Spirit of How Trees Talk

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 06:00:32 +0000

Have you ever felt drawn to a specific tree—and wondered why? You might already be receiving messages without realizing it.

In this episode of Growing Joy, I sat down with intuitive nature expert and green witch Rachael Cohen of Our Infinite Nature to explore one of the most fascinating and overlooked topics in the natural world: tree communication. From the underground mycelial networks to intuitive connections and bioelectrical signals, this conversation will change the way you see the trees around you.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:03] Launching the Intuitive Moon Community
[04:23] Upcoming Reiki mentorship program
[05:36] How do nature and trees support mental health?
[07:51] Why we feel more “rooted” around trees than houseplants
[09:47] Can trees actually touch us back? The TikTok tree trend
[11:27] The science of tree communication: phytochemicals and warning signals
[13:21] How trees share resources underground via the mycelial network
[14:52] Wind River Chimes
[16:39] AI, bioelectricity & PlantWave technology
[19:44] How can we deepen our connection with trees?
[22:52] How different people experience tree messages (clairvoyant, clairsentient, claircognizant)
[26:22] Different ways to build a connection with a tree
[31:32] Looking up tree symbolism after following intuition
[33:51] How nature speaks before you even know what it means
[36:15] Rachael’s breathwork experience and grounding through a tree
[37:50] Where did the term “tree hugger” come from?
[39:16] A simple challenge for you
[42:36] Where can you find Rachael’s socials and her upcoming offers?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Join Rachael’s Intuitive Moon Community
Amazing Tree Touching Experience - Join the Challenge! | TikTok
Book: The Overstory by Richard Powers
Book: Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety by Rachael Cohen
Book: Everyday Plant Magic by Rachael Cohen
PlantWave
Project gives 200-year-old Dublin tree 'a voice'
Growing Joy Episode 277: What Are Flower Essences and How Can They Help Me? with Katie Hess of Lotuswei
Growing Joy Episode 294: I Found 22 Ducklings on My Roof: A Nature-Curious Story of Trust and Transformation

To discover the magical world of communicating with trees,

Follow Rachael:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for the best beginner tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small Scale Homesteading for Beginners: Best of Growing Joy Replay

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:00:41 +0000

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a homesteader? A growing number of people are turning to self-sufficiency and sustainability in their way of living. However, homesteading can seem intimidating, especially when social media portrays it as an exclusive lifestyle requiring acres of land and living off the grid. The good news is that it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing lifestyle! In this episode, learn how Stephanie Thurow and Michelle Bruhn, co-authors of the book Small Scale Homesteading and absolute BFFs, are making homesteading accessible to everyone—no matter how much land you have. They share their experiences with gardening, chicken keeping, maple sugaring, and more, all while living on less than an acre in the suburbs of Minneapolis.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:43] Stephanie & Michelle’s homesteading journey
[13:08] The challenges of gardening in different regions (know your last frost date)
[16:24] How Stephanie & Michelle’s friendship and shared interests led to their book “Small-Scale Homesteading”
[17:51] What is the role of community in their homesteading journeys?
[24:32] What is the difference between gardening and homesteading?
[26:40] What inspired Michelle and Stephanie’s move from gardening to homesteading
[30:50] Tips for transitioning from gardening to homesteading
[40:21] Michelle on seed starting
[43:36] What are the easiest seeds to save?
[44:59] How can you preserve your homegrown food?
[46:45] Fermentation vs pickling
[48:36] What is water bath canning?
[51:21] Things you should know about raising chickens!
[01:01:13] Further homesteading stories and experiences from Michelle & Stephanie

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Stephanie Thurow & Michelle Bruhn Small-Scale Homesteading: A Sustainable Guide to Gardening, Keeping Chickens, Maple Sugaring, Preserving the Harvest, and More
Can It & Ferment It: More Than 75 Satisfying Small-Batch Canning and Fermentation Recipes for the Whole Year
WECK Home Preserving: Made-from-Scratch Recipes for Water-Bath Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and More
WECK Small-Batch Preserving: Year-Round Recipes for Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and MoreFood Preservation Cookbooks by Stephanie Thurow:
Chicken Pens at Tractor Supply Co.

Ready to start your homesteading journey?

Follow Stephanie:

Follow Michelle:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here for David's list!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mindblowing Facts About Plants Outside Your Door: 11 Garden Plants with Superpowers

Tue, 8 Jul 2025 06:00:23 +0000

Did you know that some common outdoor plants have superpowers? Some can survive atomic bombing, clean up radiation, and even outsmart insects. This is Part 2 of my conversation with David Domoney, author of Plants with Superpowers, about the superpowers of outdoor plants. These plants can completely change how you walk down the street and look at nature.

Listen to Part 1 of our conversation about indoor plant superpowers here.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:19] Welcome to part 2 with David Domoney
[03:29] How did ginkgo trees survive Hiroshima?
[06:08] How do sunflowers purify radioactive and toxic soil?
[08:24] How magnolias trap beetles for pollination
[09:31] Calming lavender vs. stimulating lavender
[11:02] David’s lavender gin and tonic recipe!
[13:32] Raspberries with a surprise twist
[13:54] Bee orchid's mimicry superpower
[14:51] Espoma Organic's
[16:14] How do walnuts help our brain?
[17:23] Hedgehog Holly's shape-shifting defense mechanism
[19:24] Can blueberries help with belly fat?
[20:53] What makes rosemary so powerful for memory and wellness?
[24:03] Did Roman gladiators really chew parsley for strength?
[25:13] Curly vs. flat leaf parsley differences
[27:43] Where can you find David's socials and book?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Plants with Superpowers: 75 Remarkable Plants for your Garden and Home
Growing Joy Episode 296: How to Grow Lavender with Rebecca of Lavender Connection
Growing Joy Episode 292: 7 Houseplants with Superpowers with David Domoney

Curious to know which outdoor plant in your area has superpowers?

Follow David:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Make sure your garden plants are maintaining their superpowers by using organic gardening products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog for Rebecca's expert growing tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Lavender

Tue, 1 Jul 2025 06:00:32 +0000

Did you know that lavender comes in dozens of varieties, each with a different smell, and many with different growing habits? I did learn that from Rebecca at Lavender Connection, who owns a family-run lavender farm in Sequim, Washington, which also happens to be the lavender capital of the United States! After meeting her at the Northwest Flower and Garden Show, where her beautiful lavender scents were wafting over to my booth all day, I knew I had to have her on the podcast to share her incredible expertise.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:40] How Rebecca became a lavender expert
[06:25] Where does lavender grow natively?
[07:17] How many species does lavender have?
[09:06] English vs French vs Spanish lavender
[11:19] How to avoid killing your lavender (top growing tips!)
[12:55] Why you need well-draining soil for lavender
[15:13] Make someone’s special day unforgettable by gifting them Wind River Chimes!
[17:27] Common mistakes new lavender gardeners make
[20:12] Life as a lavender farmer: agritourism, DIY, and more
[22:17] The lavender essential oil bar experience
[24:03] How Starbucks drinks was inspired by her Lavender Connection!
[25:29] Favorite lavender varieties (including the mysterious Row 19)
[27:15] What you can actually do with harvested lavender
[29:30] What’s the easiest thing you can do with a lavender?
[30:28] Where can you find Lavender Connections?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Planning to grow your own lavender?

Follow Lavender Connection:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Bring the gift of peace, serenity, and magic this wedding season with chimes! Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for an amazing gift that can help you or your loved ones grow joy and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect option. Plus, you can engrave the wind sail on the wind chime with meaningful dates, names, or phrases!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stop Killing Succulents and Listen to This Episode Instead

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:00:58 +0000

Have you ever killed a succulent and then felt like you were completely doomed as a plant parent? That was totally me about eight years ago. I brought succulents home because everyone said they were the easiest, most foolproof plant. Yet I still managed to kill them. Naturally, I spent a lot of time thinking I was just a plant killer. However, I eventually learned that succulents aren’t fool proof. And if you’ve had your heart broken by one (or five), it might not have totally been your fault. Maybe it just wasn’t the right plant for you! Or you just needed a few key things to learn about how to keep succulents alive.

So I invited my plant friend and the succulent queen of Indiana, Abby Perry of Abby’s Garden Parties, to talk about the real reason so many people kill succulents, what they actually need, and how to figure out if they’re even the right plant for you.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:16] How Abby became a succulent expert
[07:14] The #1 mistake: overwatering
[08:47] What makes a plant a “succulent”?
[09:56] Cacti vs. succulents
[12:26] How to water succulents
[14:59] Grow lights and why succulents need strong lighting
[15:25] Wind River Chimes
[17:12] Espoma Organic Cactus Mix
[20:51] Low, medium, and high light succulent suggestions
[22:05] Does your room have enough light?
[25:19] Care tips for Strings of Things
[26:26] Color and succulents
[27:37] Etiolation: what stretching means in succulents
[30:52] Fertilizing your succulents
[32:42] How to water succulents in terrariums with no drainage
[34:01] The most common mistakes in succulent care
[35:36] Best succulents for each plant parent type
[42:15] Where can you find Abby online

Mentioned in our conversation:

Want to know the best succulents for your lifestyle and lighting situation?

Follow Abby:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Go to windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I Found 22 Ducklings on My Roof: A Nature-Curious Story of Trust and Transformation

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, I found 22 baby ducklings on my roof. Not one. Not ten. But 22 fluffy, peeping, impossibly cute ducklings on the eaves of my Florida home. The videos I made became viral on Instagram and Tiktok, and so many people DM-ed me asking for updates! To be honest, it was one of the happiest and most bizarre times of my life because it made me realize how much my relationship with nature and plants had evolved to another level. Becoming nature-curious opened my eyes to the beauty of not just plant care, but also how much it lit up the world around me.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:34] How 22 ducks changed my perspective on nature and plants
[03:57] What "nature curious" lifestyle means to me
[06:27] I used to be “plant blind”
[07:45] How I changed after moving from 500 sq ft to 5 acres
[11:26] Becoming sensitive to nature’s subtle sounds & shifts
[12:42] How I met Mama Duck (and how she learned to trust me)
[14:36] Feeding the ducklings and fostering a bond with them!
[15:14] Stop wishing for that magic stress-erasing wand and grab the next best thing: Wind River Chimes!
[17:02] Join the movement of confident female gardeners with Dovetail x John Deere Workwear!
[20:24] How I discovered the next set of ducklings… on my roof!
[22:56] The poetry of seeing ducklings fledge from my roof!
[27:53] What we can learn from nature about adaptability and change

Mentioned in our conversation:

For more duckling updates, make sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok!

For the full tale of this mind-opening duckling encounter,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Dovetail Workwear

Grab a pair today and get 10% off at dovetailworkwear.com/growingjoy. The discount is applied at checkout and promo is limited to one per person.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gardening for Better Soil

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How do you view soil in your garden? A lot of us look at soil as just the brown stuff under our feet. We usually don’t think about all of the different components that make up soil, all of the different organisms living in soil, or how it is this whole environment that our plants depend on. It is a living, breathing ecosystem that could be the answer to improving your entire garden. As gardeners, you know that soil is important so you should be feeding it, not just feeding your plants. And there's no better person to talk about that topic today than Juliet Sargeant, an award-winning British garden designer, educator, and author of Start with Soil: Simple Steps for a Thriving Garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Why soil is more than just dirt
[03:28] Who is Juliet Sargeant?
[05:31] Soil as a mix of science and creativity
[09:02] What are the different components of soil? (topsoil, subsoil)
[12:07] Air pockets in soil
[14:37] Give your plants the nutrient-rich foundation they need with Espoma Organic!
[16:08] Join the movement of confident female gardeners with Dovetail x John Deere Workwear!
[18:03] What are the essential soil elements to consider as a gardener?
[19:40] Soil testing 101: pH kits, sedimentation jars
[22:20] Too much clay? Too much sand? How to fix your soil naturally
[24:16] Should you really change your soil composition? (adapting native plants)
[29:12] What are the least invasive ways that we can improve our soil?
[30:06] What is no-dig gardening?
[34:18] What are the essential nutrients for plants?
[37:31] Where can you find Juliet online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Start with Soil: Simple Steps for a Thriving Garden by Juliet Sargeant

For Juliet's expert tips on achieving a healthier and livelier soil,

Follow Juliet:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Dovetail Workwear

Grab a pair today and get 10% off at dovetailworkwear.com/growingjoy. The discount is applied at checkout and promo is limited to one per person.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

7 Houseplants with Superpowers

Tue, 3 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that your houseplants have superpowers? Some can actually seek out darkness to find the light, some can count, and some can actually bring wealth. To help me reveal all these amazing aspects of our houseplants is my new friend, David Domoney. He’s a celebrated British horticulturist, television presenter, and author with over 30 Royal Horticultural Society medals. And his book, Plants with Superpowers, is what actually inspired me to do this episode. This is the first of a two-part series on plants and their superpowers, and I have him on twice because he is such an enthusiastic person. I love his energy so much.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:50] Why is green considered a calming color
[04:40] How did David become the lore specialist of plants?
[08:33] What inspired David to write his book?
[11:20] What is the superpower of the Venus flytrap?
[13:43] Venus Flytrap evolution and feeding tips
[14:40] Garden in comfort and style with new Dovetail Workwear X John Deere overalls, designed specifically for women!
[17:57] How plants help our world become livable
[18:22] How important is the role of soil microorganisms in the process of nutrient uptake in plants?
[19:46] What is the superpower of Mimosa pudica?
[21:33] What is the superpower of Monstera?
[22:42] Different growth patterns of plants
[28:28] What is the superpower of the Prayer plant?
[30:56] Nature as the original artist
[33:11] What is the superpower of aloe vera?
[34:54] What is the superpower of the jade plant?
[39:59] Where can you find David online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For David's amazing list of houseplants with superpowers,

Follow David:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Dovetail Workwear

Grab a pair today and get 10% off at dovetailworkwear.com/growingjoy. The discount is applied at checkout and promo is limited to one per person.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the full show notes and blog here for my sun protection tips!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sun Protection for Gardeners: Melanoma Awareness Month

Tue, 27 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

It’s Melanoma Awareness Month! Two years ago, I walked into a dermatologist’s office thinking I had a simple skin issue… then I walked out with a melanoma diagnosis at 34. As a lifelong gardener, I never expected my love of plants would overlap with a serious health scare, but here we are. I’m not a beach person nor an outdoor enthusiast. I just tend to my garden every day, really. But that little dot on my face changed everything about my relationship with the sun. I learned to love sunscreens, especially UPF clothing. So if you’re a plant parent like me who spends hours outside with your hands in the soil, I hope this becomes your gentle nudge to protect your skin the same way you protect your plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:36] Special thanks to Coolibar’s UPF50 clothing
[04:49] Why should we care for our skin as we do our plants?
[08:54] Why short, daily garden sessions still add up to major sun exposure risk
[10:21] Should you use sunscreen?
[11:45] Chemical vs. mineral sunscreens
[13:40] My favorite sunscreen brands
[15:41] Why I love UPF Clothing (especially Coolibar’s sun clothing)
[16:08] Coolibar products
[16:46] What is UPF clothing and why it’s better than sunscreens
[19:40] Gardeners Supply Company
[22:36] Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses in the garden
[24:34] How to use the UV Index when gardening
[27:04] Hydration and skin health in the garden
[27:26] Espoma Organic
[29:43] Why skin care in the garden matters

Mentioned in our conversation:

Sun protection doesn't need to be complicated!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Coolibar

Protect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Smell Your Way to Joy: The Science Behind How Plants and Aromatherapy Enhance Memory and Emotion

Tue, 20 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know the scent of plants can do more than just make your garden smell good? It can actually improve your mood, your memory, and your overall health. I’ve always thought of plant scents as just a lovely bonus in the garden, but I didn’t know there’s some wild science behind how smell connects to our emotions and even our brains. And to help me with that is Dr. Rachel Herz, a neuroscientist and expert on the psychology of scent. She explains how the smells from our plants can shape how we feel, what we remember, and how we heal.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:06] How did Dr. Herz start her career in the science of scents?
[06:18] Why smell is tied to memories and emotions
[09:01] Aromatherapy and emotional associations
[10:28] Ingesting rosemary vs. smelling rosemary
[12:27] Why do people like or dislike different smells?
[14:30] How does the human olfactory system detect and process scents?
[15:32] Wind River Chimes
[17:20] Coolibar
[21:43] What’s the role of the olfactory bulbs?
[22:36] Why is the nose a significant entry point for substances entering the body?
[25:12] Why do people often think smell is the least important sense?
[27:25] Losing sight vs smell
[30:20] Gardeners Supply Company’s
[32:48] The perception of a smell as "good" or "bad"
[35:08] Can our sense of smell be cultivated?
[36:30] Where can you find Dr. Herz and her works online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Ready to explore the healing wonders of natural fragrances?

Follow Dr Rachel:

Academic Work

Consulting

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Coolibar

Protect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Propagate Plants in Fluval Stratum

Tue, 13 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

You've tried water and soil, but have you ever rooted a cutting in a Fluval Stratum? Yes, it’s technically made for fish tanks. Yes, it looks like little black caviar. But it might just be the best thing to happen to your houseplant propagation! So in this episode, let’s break down everything I’ve learned from my conversation with my plant friend, Lindsay Sisti (@alltheplantbabies), who is a propagation extraordinaire and the author of The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation. Thanks to her, I now know exactly how and why this strange little volcanic material is revolutionizing plant propagation!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Is there a mess-free plant propagation?
[02:28] How did Lindsay become a propagation expert?
[07:31] What is hybridization/pollination of plants?
[09:26] What is Fluval Stratum?
[10:00] What is a volcanic tephra?
[12:42] What makes Fluval Stratum popular for plant propagation?
[14:47] Protect yourself this Melanoma Awareness Month with Coolibar’s sun-protective clothing!
[19:07] LECA vs. Fluval Stratum
[20:25] Practical tips for propagating with Fluval Stratum
[25:10] Can you re-use Fluval Stratum?
[26:49] What are the best plants for Fluval Stratum
[27:53] Combining Fluval Stratum with perlite
[30:50] Can Fluval Stratum be used as a growing medium in semi-hydroponic setups?
[32:27] What are the best practices for propagating plant cuttings in Fluval Stratum?
[34:52] Transferring cuttings from Fluval to potting media
[36:50] Experiments with different growth mediums (Fluval Stratum, aroid mix, tree fern fiber, sphagnum moss, and peat moss)
[39:58] Where can you find Lindsay and her resources online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Get a copy of Lindsay’s book, The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation
Fluval Stratum
LECA
Lechuza Pon
Hoya propagation tutorial with @alltheplantbabies

For Lindsay's expert tips on how to use Fluval Stratum,

Follow Lindsay:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Coolibar

Protect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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What Is Naturalistic Gardening and Why It Might Change How You Garden Forever

Tue, 6 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How do you create a natural garden? Is that even possible? I want to bring you to the style of garden that’s not only sustainable but also more resilient, and honestly, more fun. In fact, it might even be the future of gardening. Natural or naturalistic garden is an approach that’s all about working with nature instead of trying to control it. To help explain this topic, I brought on my dear friend, Kelly D Norris, a renowned horticulturalist, award-winning plantsman, and the author of Your Natural Garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:40] How did Kelly get started with gardening?
[07:46] What is a natural garden?
[09:06] What are "native plants" in natural gardening?
[13:42] How does ecological landscape design look in different settings?
[15:43] Coolibar
[17:42] Wind River Chimes
[19:30] Ecological landscape designs
[22:41] How to measure direct sunlight
[29:04] Rewilding and selecting plants
[31:18] Dovetail Workwear
[33:08] Espoma Organic
[34:27] Regional plant palettes and resources
[39:12] How does ecological gardening vary across US regions?
[40:23] How to create ecosystems for wildlife
[44:20] Tips for achieving a natural garden
[47:37] "Aesthetics of ecology" and "ecology of aesthetics"
[52:01] Where can you find Kelly and his book online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

"Your Natural Garden", book by Kelly D Norris
"New Naturalism", book by Kelly D Norris
Growing Joy Ep 274: Plant Inspired Vacations with Leslie Halleck and Marcia Castro-Rosenberg
Sun Seeker for IOS and Android
SunCalc
iNaturalist app
National Wildlife Federation
AHS Garden Network - American Horticultural Society
Membership - American Horticultural Society
American Public Gardens Association
The Bane of Beauty

Interested in taking the first steps in creating a natural garden?

Follow Kelly:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Coolibar

Protect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Dovetail Workwear

Grab a pair today and get 10% off at dovetailworkwear.com/growingjoy. The discount is applied at checkout and promo is limited to one per person.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

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Plant Mythbusters: Debunking 5 Viral Plant Hacks with The Chocolate Botanist

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever seen one of those viral plant hack videos where someone sprinkles banana peels in their soil or ices their orchid? If you’re wondering if they work, I hate to be the bearer of bad news because the answer is no. Sorry, plant friends.

In this episode, I will be separating fact from fiction with my dear friend, Derek Haynes aka The Chocolate Botanist. Derek is a plant biologist who’s not afraid to call out the myths, explain the real science behind plant care, and help us simplify things.

Let’s bust 5 of the biggest houseplant myths floating around online.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:03] Meet Derek, the Chocolate Botanist
[08:03] Fighting misinformation online
[10:37] Does banana water work?
[15:15] Simplify your plant care with Espoma Organic’s high quality products!
[18:05] Which fertilizer is perfect for you?
[20:53] Do coffee grounds work?
[25:09] Do eggshells work?
[28:36] Is it effective to water plants with ice cubes?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep. 283: From Wishlist to Whoops: 2025 Houseplant Trends, Plant Care Tips & Plant Fail Confessions From the Northwest Flower & Garden Show
Growing Joy Ep. 116: Houseplant Identification Basics from Derek from The Crazy Botanist

Get all the myth-busting goodness in one place...

Follow Derek The Chocolate Botanist:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

As we welcome the season of growing and gardening, make sure you're using nontoxic products in the garden! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why Politicians Should Be Gardeners: An Invitation to Rethink Leadership Through the Wisdom of Nature

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Why should politicians become gardeners? No, this is not a political post. No, I didn’t lose it! We will not be talking about sides. This is about healing, connection, and what we can learn from our gardens and our plants in a time where it feels like everything is falling apart.

Lately, I’ve been feeling this weight from watching the world spin in chaos and there’s disconnection, judgment, overwhelm, and division everywhere. We have a connection deficiency. And I’m starting to believe, with every fiber of my being, that if our leaders gardened, if all of use gardened, the world would be a kinder/greener place!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:06] Gardening as a healing tool
[04:21] What does reciprocity teach us?
[05:08] What are some leadership lessons from gardening?
[06:11] #1 Listening on a deeper level
[08:01] #2 Patience and long-term thinking
[10:17] #3 Cycles, perspectives, and resilience
[11:05] #4 Nurturing vs. controlling
[12:18] #5 Companion planting and community
[14:23] Lessons from mycorrhizal networks and pollinators
[16:45] Compost, death, and growth from failure
[18:24] What if we all lived like gardeners?

Want to rethink leadership through gardening?

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Growing Dahlias Made Easy: How to Grow Stunning Blooms from Tuber to Flower

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

“To know a Dahlia is to love a Dahlia.” And once you grow one, it’s like all your other flowers just kind of fade into the background. There’s just something about them. One of my most favorite flowers I have ever grown is a Dahlia called Kogane Fubuki. It was this magical pink and yellow ombre bloom that literally stopped me in my tracks every time I stepped onto my patio.

And I want you to have those magical Dahlia moments too! So I brought on Anne from The Dahlia House to walk us through every step of Dahlia care. Her story is as gorgeous as her blooms, and she generously spilled all her tips to help us get the most out of our Dahlias this year.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:36] Meet Anne from the Dahlia House
[03:07] How did Anne become the Dahlia lady?
[06:05] Anne’s current dahlia collection and other plants
[08:44] Why are dahlias popular?
[11:43] What are some tips for growing dahlias successfully?
[15:05] Show your parents you care this Mother's Day or Father's Day with a soothing Wind River Chime!
[16:53] What are ways to start dahlias indoors?
[20:16] How should dahlias be planted with regard to their "eyes"?
[21:50] How can you get your dahlias to bloom a lot?
[26:32] Tips for cutting off dahlias and extending vase life
[28:23] What are the light and water requirements for dahlias?
[30:26] Container growing and spacing
[32:17] How to choose the right dahlia variety for you
[36:02] What are some common mistakes that new Dahlia growers make?
[36:55] How to fertilize your dahlia
[38:32] Anne’s favorite Dahlia varieties and trends
[39:57] Where can you find Anne and The Dahlia House?
[40:56] Recommended flowers to grow in Jupiter, Florida

Mentioned in our conversation:

What part of the Dahlia growing process has you the most excited?

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Office Gardens Are Boosting Employee Wellness, One Plant at a Time

Tue, 8 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

With the push to get people back into offices, there’s a glaring question floating around the corporate world: how do we make the office a place people actually want to come back to? As someone who believes in the impact of plants not just on spaces but on people, this question has me wishing of a world where every office has its own green vegetable garden out back.

Does it sound too good to be true? Well, it’s already happening. In this episode, I sat down with Josh and Troy, the founders of StartOrganic, a company that helps employers give that opportunity to their employees. They’ve created office gardens for companies like PayPal, eBay, Intuit, and Apple, and what they’re doing is so much more than planting tomatoes.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:35] How StartOrganic started
[06:54] How did they end up designing gardens for PayPal?
[10:31] Scaling up with corporate programs
[12:05] What are the first steps in consulting with businesses on garden installation projects?
[14:00] What's the most unique place they’ve installed a garden?
[14:50] Make gardening fun with Espoma Organic’s all-natural products!
[16:26] What is the primary focus of StartOrganic?
[19:44] How they tailor their corporate garden programs to client needs
[22:11] PayPal’s evolving garden program
[24:56] How does StartOrganic help employees care for their corporate garden?
[26:54] Measuring the success of corporate gardens
[29:17] Heartwarming employee stories
[32:10] Can small offices start corporate gardens?
[34:42] What are the popular crops and seasonal offerings
[36:33] Where can you find StartOrganic?

Mentioned in our conversation:

How have office gardens impacted employees' well-being?

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Wishlist to Whoops: 2025 Houseplant Trends, Plant Care Tips & Plant Fail Confessions From the Northwest Flower & Garden Show

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What plants are flying off the shelves this year? If you’ve been hanging out with me on Instagram or listening to the podcast lately, you know that part of my job is traveling the country to speak at plant shows. I love getting to see what’s new, what’s trending, and honestly… just being surrounded by thousands of plants and planty people. It fills my joy tank like nothing else.

So I thought, why not bring the magic of one of these events to YOU? This episode is your virtual behind-the-scenes pass to the recent Northwest Flower & Garden Show in Seattle. I spent three days running around with my little mic, interviewing vendors, influencers, and anyone who would talk plants with me. I came home with so much planty intel, sore feet, and a heart full of joy.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:26] What I did at Northwest Flower and Garden Show!
[04:06] Andy from Andy’s Orchids
[05:30] Molly from Rancho Cacto Nursery
[07:16] Cheyenne from Chey D Plant Lady
[10:21] Gardenia Gardens and Design
[12:43] Justin from Costa Farms
[15:19] Wind River Chimes
[17:01] Gabrielle from The Lily Pad Bulbs
[18:50] Mark from Little Prince Plants
[20:15] Anne from The Dahlia House
[23:50] Cameron from Urban Jungle Plant Shop
[27:47] The Plant Farm
[29:09] Kevin from Epic Gardening
[34:27] Kamili from Plantblerd
[38:20] Jaques in the Garden
[42:54] Davida from Condo Plant Mama
[46:05] Krystal from Plants with Krystal
[48:08] Derek from Chocolate Botanist
[49:42] Tim from Greenlife TPG
[51:07] Robbie from Visit Our Garden

Vendors:

Influencers:

Plants featured:

Neofinetia-falcata Furan Orchid
Tylecodon schaeferianus
Crassula deceptor
Anthurium doc bloc x luxurians
Conophytum “monkey’s face”
The Purple Tomato
Ranunculus Sfumato
Orchid cactus-epiphyllum beavertail
Mystery lipstick cactus from The Plant Farm

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Soil & Strategy: The Two Garden Planning Secrets for Bigger, Healthier Harvests

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

How do you plan your garden? Actually, do you plan your gardens at all? After many years of gardening and speaking with many garden experts, I learned that a successful organic vegetable garden doesn’t just happen when you plant it; it starts on the day you plan it.

In this episode, I have the perfect recurring guest, Joe Lamp'l, to discuss planning your garden for the year ahead and making sure 2025 is your best gardening season yet. Joe is the founder of Joe Gardener and creator of many digital gardening courses I've taken, including Organic Vegetable Gardening Course (discount applied at checkout through clicking the link!).

In this episode, we learn:

[01:14] What is strategic garden planning?
[04:11] How can we make 2025 the greatest gardening season yet?
[08:02] Timing for starting seeds/seedlings & plant selection
[15:01] Whitney Johnson’s book “Go Forth and Forage"
[16:09] What are the most important aspects of garden planning?
[19:54] Why soil health is important
[22:33] How to improve soil health
[25:58] What are some useful garden planning tools?
[17:17] How to choose the right plants
[29:48] What is biodiverse gardening?
[31:37] Helpful local botanical centers
[34:48] What is companion planting?
[41:32] Joe’s Organic Vegetable Gardening Course

Mentioned in our conversation:

Organic Vegetable Gardening Course (Discount applied at checkout through clicking the link!)
Master Seed Starting Course
Northwest Flower & Garden Show
Xerces Society
Missouri Botanical Garden
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Giverny Gardens
Chattahoochee Nature Center
Plant Partners: Science-Based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden by Jessica Walliser
GJ Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier and My MOM

For Joe's proven and tested gardening strategies,

Follow Joe:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: Go Forth and Forage by Whitney Johnson

Grab yourself a copy of Go Forth and Forage: A Guide to Foraging Over 50 of the Most Common Edible & Medicinal North American Mushrooms by Whitney Johnson at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Live Seasonally and Celebrate the Spring Equinox

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What if the secret to a happy life is to live seasonally? Living seasonally isn’t just about eating fresh produce (but, yes, that’s delicious). It’s about noticing nature’s rhythms, then adjusting depending on the season and celebrating those small shifts that define the passage of time.

And with the Spring Equinox here, which is a time of renewal and balance, it’s the perfect moment to talk about how we can welcome the season with intention. I’m joined by a dear friend Bailey Van Tassel—a mom, gardener, author of Kitchen Garden Living, and someone who’s really committed to living a more seasonal lifestyle.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] What is the secret to living seasonally?
[03:15] What is Bailey’s journey into seasonal living?
[07:00] How Bailey reconnected with nature
[09:08] What really matters in gardening
[12:26] The science behind gardening
[13:50] How does biophilia explain our connection to plants?
[15:00] Find a moment of calm and soothe your spirit with Wind River Chimes!
[16:41] Nourish your plants and your soul this spring with Espoma Organic’s all-natural products!
[18:43] Why permaculture is useful in living seasonally
[20:09] How did Bailey’s garden evolve?
[25:55] Personal growth through gardening
[27:50] How gardening helps with anxiety and depression
[28:52] What does it mean to truly live seasonally?
[31:06] Winter vs spring in terms of energy and rhythm
[33:48] What practices can you do to honor the Spring Equinox?
[36:59] Why is it important to involve children in gardening?
[42:19] Where can you find Bailey and her book ‘Kitchen Garden Living’ on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Brie the Plant Lady
Kitchen Garden Living by Bailey Van Tassel

For Bailey's simple yet special recommendations on how to live seasonally,

Follow Bailey:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Use Plants to Heal From Grief

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Grief is so heavy that it can feel like an impossible weight to carry. But if you think about it, you can use plant care as a method to process grief and loss. Like plants, people can also grow and find resilience. They don’t rush and don’t demand. They just grow… little by little, day by day.

In this episode, I want to share the story of my dear plant friend, Wade Lee, also known as Plants by Wade Lee. His story is so much more than houseplant care. It’s about loss, grief, healing, and finding joy again, one leaf, one root, one seed at a time.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] How plants can help you heal from grief
[04:22] Wade’s story with grief and plants
[10:10] Finding solace in plants
[15:14] Find tranquility in every breeze this 2025 with Wind River Chimes!
[16:55] Learn how to grow more food with less space and effort with the 4th edition of ‘Square Foot Gardening’!
[18:08] Honoring Steven and new beginnings!
[22:32] How we connect with the spiritual realm
[25:39] How Wade secured a gardener position
[29:38] How to use plants as a therapeutic tool for grief
[33:43] Finding grace in dead plants
[36:28] At what point did Wade begin using social media?
[39:53] What are some methods for using plants to heal from grief?
[42:44] What is nature in different forms?
[45:49] Where can you find Wade on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Wade's recommendations on how to use plants as a therapeutic tool,

Follow Wade:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: All New! Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition

Get your copy of All New! Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition today at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

5 Signs You're Overthinking Plant Care (And How to Relax)

Tue, 4 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever found yourself overthinking over a yellow leaf and wondering, “Is this overwatering or underwatering? Does it need water? Is this normal?” You’re just like the rest of us, plant friend! It's something I've done many, many times, and I know it's something that people in our community do all the time. We all want to get it right, but overthinking plant care can suck the joy right out of it. But in 2025, we need as much joy and as little stress as possible. So here are 5 signs you might be overthinking your plant care and how to fix it!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:57] Common overthinking traps in plant care
[03:54] Five tips to stop overthinking plant care
[04:33] Sign #1: You Google every little thing
[09:34] Sign #2: You’re watering on a rigid schedule (and believing plant care cards)
[12:55] Alternative to a finger test
[14:10] Sign #3: You panic over every yellow leaf
[15:37] Grow healthier plants, indoors and out, with Espoma Organic’s premium products!
[18:06] Sign #4: You throw the ‘kitchen sink approach’ at small issues
[19:40] Sign #5: You think you need to be a 'perfect' plant parent
[23:34] How to relax & enjoy your plants more

Mentioned in our conversation:

Want to lessen your stress over plant care?

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Lessen you're overthinking, make sure you're using nontoxic products on your houseplants! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Houseplants for Kids: Raising the Next Generation of Plant Parents

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

“Start ‘em young.” That’s my motto. Well, it’s not really mine but I say it all the time when it comes to houseplants. And for this episode, I’m sure plant parents are gonna be happy to learn how to connect the younger generations to plants and nature at a young age.

So I want to share this conversation with my plant friend Priscille Joseph, who is a Canadian author, illustrator, and plant lover. She wrote My First ABC Book of Houseplants and she’s all about helping kids connect with nature.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:07] How did Priscrille become a plant lady?
[06:04] How ‘My First ABC Book of Houseplants’ was created
[10:46] Launching workshops with sustainable brands
[13:12] What are the ways to engage kids with houseplants?
15:22] Nurture your plant babies safely from toxic chemicals with Espoma Organic’s premium gardening products!
[16:57] Let kids enjoy a sensory experience
[17:27] Connect plants with stories
[21:39] Involve kids in hands-on activities
[22:34] Make it interactive
[24:18] Get creative with plants
[26:52] Bonus tip: give kids responsibility
[28:46] Where can you get Priscille’s book?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Download Priscille’s books:
My First ABC Book of Houseplants: Exclusive Edition
My First Abc Book Of House Plants | Indigo
My First ABC Book of Houseplants | Amazon
Free Greenhouse Scavenger Hunt Printable
Journal of Education in Science, Environment and Health (JESEH)
The Bug Girl: A True Story by Sophia Spencer

Want to engage your kids more with easy plant tasks?

Follow Priscille:

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Transformative Power of Flower Essences: What Are Flower Essences and How Can They Help Me?

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever once thought about how flowers could do more than brighten your day? What if they could actually support your emotional well-being, reduce your stress, and even spark creativity? After 270+ episodes, this is my first time ordering a guest product right after the interview. Yes, I am on the flower essence bandwagon HARD after this interview.

But who wouldn't be after talking with Katie Hess, founder and flower alchemist of Lotuswei, a company dedicated to harnessing the essence of flowers to help us live more joyful lives? She’s an amazing educator and I learned so much in this conversation.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:41] How Katie started getting into the energetics of flowers
[06:10] The ripple effect of 3%
[08:12] What is a flower essence?
[09:46] Why are bees attracted to flowers?
[10:18] The concept of botanical wi-fi/flower wi-fi
[14:01] Our disconnection from nature
[15:48] Wind River Chimes
[17:30] Plants with Superpowers
[18:31] What is the human-flower connection?
[21:45] Validating flower essence information
[23:48] How do you study flower essence?
[27:31] How is a flower’s energetic code captured and distilled?
[30:32] The dilution process and its similarity with homeopathy
[33:02] Essential oil vs flower essence
[37:32] Most popular remedies and flowers that match
[41:25] How can you experiment with and experience flower essences?
[43:36] Take the flower essence test!
[45:27] Synergistic flower essence blends
[50:30] Flower essence that fits my lack of self-belief
[51:29] Where can you order your flower essence?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Want to find out which flower essence you can get started with?

Follow Lotuswei:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: Plants with Superpowers by David Domoney

Pick up Plants with Superpowers at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Houseplant Confidence: The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Lately, I’ve been hearing so many people talk about Mel Robbins’ Let Them Theory—this idea of letting go of control, shifting your mindset, and ultimately finding peace. And you know what? I realized that I went through a similar shift when it came to my plant care journey, and I want to share it with you in this episode. I'll talk about how we think about our plants, our plant care, and how that shift in mind can bring so much joy, not just to our plant parenthood but also to our lives.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Concept of 'Let Them Theory'
[01:27] My most popular episode!
[02:54] I just launched my Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass!
[04:29] What’s the root cause of your doubt?
[07:35] Overwhelm and misinformation
[08:58] How to reframe your “plant killer” identity mindset
[09:50] How does social media affect your plant care mindset?
[12:28] How to celebrate plant care
[15:30] Add moments of serenity throughout your day with Wind River Wind Chimes!
[18:12] Pick a positive thought about
[19:01] Treat every plant misstep as a learning experience
[20:18] Take on a growth mindset
[22:21] Evolving plant parent personalities
[25:00] How to be a confident plant parent
[27:09] Develop a relationship with your plants
[31:43] Celebrate plant wins!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass
Growing Joy Episode 43: Your Brain on Plants
Growing Joy Episode 200: Common Houseplant Pest Identification and How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats, Spidermites, Scale, White Flies and Mealybugs
What's Your Plant Parent Personality?
Understanding Natural Light
Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE)

For mindset shifts and practices to help build your houseplant confidence,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Bring the gift of peace, serenity, and magic with chimes! Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for an amazing gift that can help you or your loved ones grow joy and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect option. Plus, you can engrave the wind sail on the wind chime with meaningful dates, names, or phrases!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Water Saving Techniques for Your Garden

Tue, 4 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

How can we conserve water while maintaining healthy, attractive gardens, no matter what climate you're in? Record-breaking heat waves, devastating droughts, wildfires scorching millions of acres, floods turning streets into rivers—we've seen it all this year. As climate extremes test our resilience, our gardens are feeling the impact too. How do we ensure our gardens not only survive but also grow in these unpredictable conditions? Let’s talk about water-saving techniques and strategies to keep your garden lush and sustainable with Noelle Johnson, aka the “Arizona plant lady.” She’s a horticulturist, landscape consultant, and the author of the new book, ‘The Water-Smart Garden.’

In this episode, we learn:

[02:53] How Noelle became a plant expert
[04:36] Why water conservation is important
[07:27] What does water conservation look like?
[08:27] Identifying drought conditions
[09:56] Water-saving tips for renters
[10:49] What are the plants great for different plant zones?
[13:43] Drought-tolerant plants
[15:28] Espoma Organics’ premium gardening products
[16:58] AHS Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening
[18:52] Why you should go to a local nursery
[20:34] Making soil more efficient at water retention
[23:32] How mulch and ground cover help with water retention
[26:36] What are ollas for water saving?
[30:46] What are different ways of saving rainwater? (rain barrel, swale, creek beds, etc)
[36:32] What is xeriscaping?
[40:33] How can you reduce the water your lawn needs?
[44:14] Smart irrigation controllers
[45:30] Beginner tips for water conservation
[47:20] Advanced water conservation strategies
[49:14] ’The Water Smart Garden’

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Noelle's complete list of water-saving tips,

Follow Noelle:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: American Horticultural Society Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening

Grab a copy of Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Quarto.com, or Amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plant Inspired Vacations

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Did you know you can use your plant passion as inspiration for how and where you go on vacation? I'm sure many of us have already done this on a small scale. Maybe you've been on a trip and kept taking pictures of plants that look just like the ones you have at home. Or perhaps you've insisted on visiting a local plant shop or botanical garden while on vacation (guilty as charged!). But plant friends, that can be just the beginning of how you travel and botanize for your plant passion.

And we're going to dive into everything you need to know about it today with my horticulturist bestie Leslie Halleck, who has been on the show many times, and Marcia Castro Rosenberg, listener-turned-plant-shop owner and also a dear friend of mine.

Leslie and Marcia have actually teamed up to create a once-in-a-lifetime trip called Botany & Betterment in The Amazon! It's a seven-day riverboat and jungle adventure on the Rio Negro River in Brazil this August 2025.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:40] Get to know Marcia
[07:51] Leslie’s botanizing trips
[11:32] What is botanizing?
[15:17] Support sustainable gardening with Espoma Organic’s premium gardening products!
[16:52] Bring nature back to your garden with Kelly Norris's Your Natural Garden
[18:55] What are their most memorable botanizing experiences?
[25:37] What are the botanizing basics?
[30:14] Where can you find plant keys & field guides
[34:57] On creating the ultimate Amazon trip: ‘Botany & Betterment’
[39:23] Hiring local guides for your trip
[43:50] Building community and personal growth
[49:45] Where can you find more info about Leslie and Marcia

Mentioned in our conversation:

To know more about Leslie and Marcia's botanizing adventures,

Follow Leslie:

Follow Marcia:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: Your Natural Garden by Kelly D. Norris

Grab a copy of Your Natural Garden by Kelly Norris at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Easy Houseplant Care, Houseplant Pest Control, and Motherhood and Plants

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

If you’re a plant lover, you’ve probably come across Chantel, the brilliant mind behind @channygrayhome on Instagram. Over the past few years, she has built a community of over half a million plant enthusiasts. But there’s so much more to her than her incredible follower count.

In this episode, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my chat with Channy—where we talked about her plant history, her love for DIYs, her big move from the Arizona desert to lush Iowa, and how she juggles being a plant mom and a mom to three kids.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:15] How Channy and I met at a Botanical Garden
[07:28] What has Channy’s plant journey been like?
[15:14] Add serenity to your life in 2025 and beat the winter blues with Wind River Chimes!
[16:56] Start your kitchen garden today by grabbing a copy of Kitchen Garden Living by Bailey Van Tassel
[19:10] What does pest prevention mean for Channy?
[21:12] Channy’s new plant soap for pest control!
[23:57] What does a bubble bath for plants look like?
[25:07] How to balance motherhood and plant care
[28:17] Top tips to make plant care easy and fun!
[30:06] Decorating with plant cuttings
[32:03] Lechuza pon vs LECA
[33:54] How did Channy get into DIY projects?
[35:30] Moving to Iowa and preparing for changes
[38:02] What does Channy’s family think of her plant collection?
[40:38] What it feels like to have 500k+ followers
[43:00] What are her future plans for Channy Gray Home?
[44:30] Where can you find Channy on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 240: How to Move with Houseplants with Becca De La Plants
Growing Joy Ep 226: How to Repot Houseplants
Growing Joy Ep 109: Passive Hydroponics 2.0 and the LECA VS PON Debate
Plant Soap by Channy Gray Home
LECHUZA-PON Plant Substrate
LECA

Learn more about Channy's top houseplant care tips,

Follow Channy Gray Home:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson

Grab a copy of Kitchen Garden Living at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Quarto.com, or Amazon.com to get inspired and grow organically.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

GET THE FREE HOUSEPLANT PEST CONTROL DOWNLOAD HERE

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Beneficial Insects For Effortless Houseplant Pest Management

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When I visited the Seattle Spheres and saw the famous green wall with its 40,000 plants, I was mesmerized. But what really caught my eye were these strange little plastic baggies hanging off some stems. I wondered if they were hurting the plants at first. But then I looked closer, I realized those bags were filled with insects. Beneficial insects, to be exact. And they were there to manage pests naturally.

So if you’re like me and have struggled with pests like spider mites, thrips, or mealybugs on your plants, this episode with Jamie Stanton from DMV Beneficials should show you how beneficial insects work in deterring pests naturally.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:34] Download my new houseplant pest guide for free!
[03:37] Meet Jamie from DMV Beneficials
[06:59] What is a “beneficial insect” and what makes it beneficial?
[09:59] Why not just use pesticides?
[12:01] How do these beneficial predators work with your houseplants?
[13:42] What are the risks of releasing beneficial insects in your home?
[14:38] Can beneficial insects sting us?
[15:19] Never worry about water restriction ever again by picking up a copy of "The Water Smart Garden" by Noelle Johnson
[16:32] Discover high-quality organic gardening products with Espoma Organic
[18:22] Stay away from these beneficial insects!
[20:42] How to get started
[28:10] Can we see the mites we release?
[29:35] Beneficial insect against scales
[29:46] Effective thrips management
[33:44] Can you use beneficials in tandem with pesticides?
[34:51] Top houseplant pests that give the most headaches
[41:31] How does sustainability play into beneficials?
[48:19] Where to find DMV Beneficials near you

Mentioned in our conversation:

GET THE FREE HOUSEPLANT PEST CONTROL DOWNLOAD HERE

Learn how to use beneficial insects to protect your houseplants,

Follow Jamie

Follow DMV Beneficials

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson

Grab a copy of The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I Grew 40 New Plants in 2024: Ranked from Favorites to Flops

Tue, 7 Jan 2025 07:00:00 +0000

I can't believe we're already in 2025, but I am SO excited to spill all the tea about my wild plant experiment from last year. In 2024, I totally went for it and added over 40 new plant species to my collection—and it was quite the adventure! Some of these plants thrived, some flopped, and yes, some didn’t make it. So in this episode, I’m sharing it all—from my favorites to my fails—and what I learned along the way.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:51] Reflecting on 2024
[04:31] What’s your plant parent personality?
[06:38] Why I now consider myself a low maintenance plant parent
[09:08] How I fell in love with Ficus (and fell out of love with Calathea)
[11:52] My success with Anthuriums and Alocasia
[13:37] Why my most repurchased plants are philodendrons (+ pothos)
[15:19] Start 2025 with soothing premium chimes with Wind River!
[17:00] Grow your best garden yet with the AHS Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening!
[19:39] Why there is less light in your house than you believe
[20:50] My top favorite plants in 2024
[33:44] My least favorite plants in 2024
[37:56] Plants that didn’t make it in 2024 :(
[42:53] What's in store for my 2025 houseplant collection?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a complete list of my 2024 plant collection ranked,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: American Horticultural Society Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening

Grab a copy of the Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to start growing organically.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Role of Nature in Personal Growth

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

What role do you think nature plays in your life? For me, it has always been a deeper way to improve my mental, physical, and emotional health. In fact, it’s not just me who thinks this way. The minute I hopped into the digital recording studio, I knew that my guest was someone very similar to me! I’ve been following Marcus Bridgewater, better known as Garden Marcus, for years, and I’m so happy to say that he surpassed my dreams of what this conversation on plants and wellness could have been.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:12] Who is Marcus from Garden Marcus?
[04:49] Something we have in common!
[09:03] How did Garden Marcus get started?
[12:50] How did Marcus first start gardening?
[17:01] Our crazy plant parent stories
[18:56] Community and isolation
[20:37] Why we need more green spaces
[27:41] How to be a more “grounding” person
[30:08] How disconnected is the world from nature?
[33:08] Exploring plant life parallels
[36:37] How to understand “feelings”
[39:35] How to awaken to nature’s presence
[43:27] How Marcus’s book came to be
[46:11] Mind, body, and spirit
[47:32] What it means to be “community loyal”
[48:23] Garden Marcus vs. Marcus Bridgewater
[51:04] Check out Seasons of Growth: The New Journal
[53:30] Where to follow/find Garden Marcus

Mentioned in this conversation:

How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself by Marcus Bridgewater
Seasons of Growth: A Journal for Well-Being Inspired by Marcus Bridgewater
Choice Forward
Redwood National and State Parks (U.S. National Park Service)

For more plant-life parallels,

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carnivorous Plants: The Houseplant Pest Control You Never Thought Of

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, did you know your houseplants can double as pest control? Carnivorous plants don’t just survive—they hunt. Venus flytraps can snap down on unsuspecting flies, while pitcher plants lure bugs into their slippery traps. These carnivorous plants themselves are nature’s own pest management system.

So I’ve brought on a guest who knows everything there is to know about them: Kenny Coogan, the head of education at the International Carnivorous Plant Society.

Kenny has been growing carnivorous plants for about 20 years, and about five years ago, he joined the ICPS as the education director. He quit his day job and turned his passion into his profession, running a carnivorous plant nursery in Florida. As he puts it, "Carnivorous plants are my life."

In this episode, we learn:

[01:47] What’s not to love about carnivorous plants?
[04:52] Who is Kenny?
[08:01] Some facts about Venus flytraps
[09:57] What is a carnivorous plant?
[12:54] Where do we find carnivorous plants outdoors?
[15:36] Don’t let your houseplants wither this winter with Soltech Growlights!
[16:57] Nourish your houseplants with Espoma Organic’s gentle and premium fertilizers!
[18:57] What triggers carnivorous plants’ dormancy?
[19:57] What carnivorous plants do to their prey
[24:17] Specific care for temperate carnivorous plants
[27:31] Specific care for tropical carnivorous plants
[32:43] Can you feed carnivorous plants hamburger? (how to hand-feed them)
[36:41] Trigger mechanism of Venus flytraps
[38:48] How much light do Venus flytraps love?
[42:58] What are the best houseplant-friendly carnivorous plants?
[48:26] Watering and potting tips for carnivorous plants
[50:30] Common mistakes and troubleshooting

Mentioned in our conversation:

For carnivorous plants' care basics and feeding tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Work with The Winter Equinox

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

As the winter solstice–or the longest night of the year–approaches, how does it reflect and represent you? This is the season of dormancy, a time when plants, the earth, and even we are drawn to rest, recharge, and prepare for growth. In this final installment of our 2024 seasonal sessions, on the pod once again is my dear friend and our resident green witch, Rachael of Our Infinite Nature. She shared with me how the winter solstice can help us honor cycles of rest and renewal. It was a lovely way to end a year of seasonal explorations, covering everything from the practical ways we can live in harmony with the season to what the quiet time of winter can teach us.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:55] What is the cyclical nature of life?
[05:38] How to rebrand winter inside ourselves
[10:38] How does the earth respond to winter?
[13:48] How to prepare your winter garden
[15:25] Give your plants the sunlight, even on the coldest days, with Soltech Grow Lights!
[16:47] Find peace in the chaos with personalized Wind River Chimes!
[19:26] Why focus on your inner growth
[23:06] Astrological guide to winter solstice (Capricorn season)
[29:39] Shop exclusive garden gifts and essentials at Gardener's Supply Company!
[30:45] How to honor the winter solstice
[37:08] What is the role of our nervous system?
[39:19] Rest and digest
[42:02] Winter solstice visualization/meditation
[55:53] Where can you follow Rachael?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 229: Why You Should Care About the Spring Equinox
Growing Joy Episode 242: Why You Should Care About the Summer Solstice
Growing Joy Episode 256: What You Need to Know About the Autumnal Equinox
Get Rachael’s book, Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety
Join the 2025 Intuitive Magic Group Coaching

For Rachael's insightful recommendations on navigating the new season,

Follow Rachael:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Create a Biophilic Office Space: Boost Your Workday Motivation by Adding These Plants to Your Office

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

According to a Human Spaces report, “workers in office environments with natural elements, such as greenery and sunlight, are 6% more productive at work and 15% more creative.” Personally, they’ve been my number one most useful tool for increasing joy throughout my workday, and they help me reduce eye strain from staring at my computer all day. So in this episode of Growing Joy with leafjoy® miniseries, we’ll be talking about biophilia, common problems of office plant care, and some practical tips to make your workplace more “green.”

In this episode, we learn:

[04:03] Why plants are helpful in office spaces
[04:16] What is biophilia?
[05:37] What is biophilic design?
[06:51] How does biophilic design affect productivity?
[08:58] What’s our relationship with sounds?
[10:11] Impact of natural materials (eg. wooden contact paper)
[11:19] What’s the right type of plant for your office?
[12:50] Lowest entry: Proven Winners leafjoy® H2O Line
[14:46] How to arrange plants in your office (to reduce eye strain)
[17:06] Vertical plant solutions
[18:57] What are some office plant care tips?
[20:18] What to do when your office doesn’t allow plants

Mentioned in this conversation:

For my complete suggestions on how to add nature to your office,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as carefree houseplants in cute containers that you only have to refill once the water level is low!

Find plant joy in leafjoy®. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy® dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

CaliKim on "10 Time Saving Tactics for a More Efficient Garden"

Tue, 3 Dec 2024 07:00:00 +0000

How do you have a life and a garden? Between busy schedules, family time, and pretty lengthy to-do lists, how can we fit gardening moments into our lives without sacrificing precious time? As we close out our 2024 gardening season, it’s a great time to reflect on what worked, what flopped, and how we can make our gardens even better for 2025. This is exactly where CaliKim shines the most, and her new book, The 10-Minute Gardener, helps us become more efficient gardeners who can, as she says, “have a garden and a life.”

In this episode, we learn:

[03:48] What is Kim’s gardening background?
[06:30] What does her garden & garden zone look like?
[09:16] Why raised bed gardening is the best option in Florida
[13:04] Why efficiency is important in gardening
[14:33] Gift yourself or a loved one the gift of peace and joy with a personalized Wind River Wind Chime!
[16:03] Bring simplicity into your garden with Kelly Norris's new book, Your Natural Garden.
[17:34] 3-minute gardening tasks
[27:21] 5-minute gardening tasks
[30:51] Simplify your gardening experience with Espoma Organic’s high-quality products!
[38:03] How to plan your garden for dormant season
[40:15] How to break down your garden tasks
[43:13] 8-minute & 10-minute gardening tasks
[49:06] 30-minute gardening tasks
[51:00] Where can you find Kim on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Pre-order 10 Minute Gardener by CaliKim
The First Time Gardener: Raised Bed Gardening by CaliKim
CaliKim's Smart Pots Fabric Planters
CaliKim's Seed Collections
CaliKim's Garden Kits
Crescent Gardens TrueDrop planters
Organic Gardening for Everyone: Homegrown Vegetables Made Easy by CaliKim
CaliKim Backyard at night

For CaliKim's time-saving gardening tasks,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: Your Natural Garden by Kelly D. Norris

Grab a copy of Your Natural Garden by Kelly Norris at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Winter Houseguest Plants: Outdoor Plants That Can Grow Indoors This Winter (and go right back outside next summer!)

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

What if there’s a way to enjoy your favorite outdoor plants year-round, save money, and keep them inside as houseplants during the winter? The answer lies in overwintering outdoor plants indoors, which is a brilliant technique I talked about with my friend and gardening expert, Janey Santos from Dig, Plant, Water, Repeat. Janey is a master gardener, YouTuber, and just an all-around plant genius, and she shared five incredible plants that can grow successfully indoors over winter and head right back outside next summer.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:27] Gardening in different climates
[06:13] Plant swap announcement!
[08:25] Why atrium is an ideal plant
[10:31] Why coleus is the easiest plant to propagate
[11:35] What are geraniums?
[15:07] Why you should invest in grow lights
[16:12] How to get personalized Wind River Chimes
[17:42] Gardening solutions for your indoor and outdoor plants
[21:05] Geranium vs. pelargonium
[21:57] How versatile are begonias?
[25:25] Caladiums—the up-and-coming plant
[31:50] Why Alyssum is a special plant!
[34:01] Find the perfect holiday gifts for gardeners and plant parents
[35:06] Hypoestes (the Polka Dot plant)
[38:15] Is gardening a budget hobby or not?
[40:04] Watch our plant swap next week!
[40:34] Where can you follow Janey on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Janey's recommended houseguest plants and their proper winter care,

Follow Janey:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vacation Proof Your Plants

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

How do you vacation-proof your plants before going away? The holiday season is fast approaching, which means many of us have already booked out-of-town trips that would require us to be away from home for a longer period of time. So how would you keep the plants back home alive while on vacation? It's not like we could water our plants while away, right? So in this episode, I want to make sure that stress never happens to you. I'm going to set you up with all that you'll need to know so you know your plants are content while you enjoy your holiday.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:01] Join my Patreon for amazing goodies
[02:38] How to holiday proof your plants
[03:34] What’s your magic number? (the number of days you’re gonna be gone)
[05:57] Plant care tips for short trips (7 to 10 days)
[10:30] Why self-watering planters would be perfect for you
[11:30] Some DIY water-wicking system
[12:11] Try watering globes/stakes
[13:11] Plant care tips for longer trips (over 10 days)
[15:25] Give your plants the light they deserve this winter with Soltech!
[16:59] Gift peace and joy this season with personalized Wind River Chimes!
[19:32] How to prep your plant sitter

Mentioned in our conversation:

For all of my proven and tested vacation plant care tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Give the Gift of Growth // Holiday Houseplant Gift Guide

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Why are plants the perfect holiday gift? Plants symbolize so many things such as growth, life, and connection, so it only makes sense that we want our giftee to feel this. And unlike typical presents, if you pick just the right plant for whoever you’re gifting it to, trust that this will continue to grow and evolve long after the holiday season is gone—making them think of you every time they look at it. But if you’re not careful (and well-informed), that gift could turn into a time bomb of wilting leaves and shattered dreams. And before you know it, your giftee is calling themselves a plant killer. So this episode is all about a holiday houseplant gift guide that avoids the classic plant gifting pitfalls.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:45] Why do plants make the best gift?
[04:52] What’s the biggest issue about gifting plants?
[06:37] Why choose low-light plants as gifts?
[07:21] How can you make plant gifting fun?
[07:35] #1 Personalized terrariums
[10:28] #2 Kokedama
[12:33] Perfect plants to gift to your loved ones!
[12:44] Perfect plant gift for mindful plant parents
[13:38] Perfect plant gift for curious collector plant parents
[14:36] Perfect plant gift for design-based plant parents
[15:16] Perfect plant gift for urban farmer plant parents
[16:09] Perfect plant gift for low-maintenance plant parents

Mentioned in our conversation:

For my complete houseplant gift guide,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Holiday Plant Care: Poinsettia/Christmas Cactus/Norfolk Pine Care

Tue, 5 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Christmas and the holiday season are coming! Which “festive” plants should you grow and how can you help them stay alive? For many people, nothing makes the holidays lovelier than getting a beautiful poinsettia or holiday cactus during this time. But there’s absolutely nothing worse than seeing the holiday plant that you fell in love with just wither before your very eyes because they need a different care than you’re used to. So today we’ll talk about how to care for classic holiday plants with horticultural expert Farid Khalil from Mahoney's Garden Center.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:32] Who is Farid Khalil from Mahoney’s Garden Center?
[08:04] What do the holidays look like at Mahoney's?
[10:20] What is a poinsettia and how do you care for it?
[14:48] Give your plants the light they deserve this winter with Soltech Grow Lights!
[16:12] Pre-order Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition now and get new plans, tips, and updates!
[19:21] How to care for poinsettias successfully?
[25:52] Are poinsettias toxic to pets and children?
[27:24] What are some poinsettia alternatives?
[30:04] Repot your holiday plants with Espoma Organic’s premium quality products!
[31:20] Why Cyclamen is a nice holiday plant
[32:51] How Cyclamen become associated with Christmas
[34:39] How should you care for Cyclamen?
[38:35] Christmas cactus vs easter cactus
[40:20] How to care for a Christmas cactus
[44:19] How to care for a Norfolk Island Pine
[49:30] Why Lemon cypress is a good holiday plant
[51:46] Get to know about Mahoney's Garden Center!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Farid's garden center-tested holiday plant care tips,

Follow Mahoney’s Garden Center:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Quarto: Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition

Grab the 4th edition of Square Foot Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Best Low Light Plants for Dim Spaces

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

What plants are great in low-light homes? That’s one of the most common plant questions that I get asked a lot. It’s popular because a lot of us don’t have those floor-to-ceiling windows that we often see on Pinterest and Instagram. The majority of us just have normal, low-light homes. Even my new house in Florida is actually extremely low-light! But of course, we all want our indoor garden to grow well, no matter what our lighting circumstances are. So here’s another Proven Winners episode to teach you how to choose the right low-light plants for your space and all the tips you need to know to make sure you’re taking good care of them.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:34] What is a low light (tolerant) plant?
[03:30] Why low-light plants are popular
[04:07] Why you should check out snake & ZZ plants!
[05:25] How we overestimate the amount of light in our homes
[08:13] Take my Plant Parent Personality™ test
[08:35] Importance of rotating pots for low-light plants
[10:01] Keep your plant's leaves clean
[11:02] #1 Ferns
[14:54] #2 Prayer plants
[17:00] #3 Monstera
[17:33] #4 Photos
[19:13] #5 Dracaena
[19:52] #6 Philodendron
[21:20] Check out Proven Winner’s H2O Line!
[22:41] Tips for “no light” situations

Mentioned in our conversation:

For more low-light plant tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This Trick Will Save You 100s at the Garden Center // Plant Parent Personality

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Are you struggling to keep your houseplants alive? You might be one of many aspiring plant parents who find themselves in this annoying cycle, and you wonder why you can't seem to keep even the "easiest" plants alive. The problem is not finding the “right beginner plant” but understanding your own plant parent personality. So in this episode, I’ll tell you the five distinct plant parent personalities and how they can help you choose the right plants for your lifestyle.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:53] What's a Plant Parent Personality?
[05:02] Is there a “starter plant”?
[08:06] Are you a Mindful Plant Parent?
[14:54] Find the perfect grow light that suits your plant parenting style with Soltech Grow Lights!
[17:13] Find the right Espoma Organic products to nourish every type of plant in your home!
[19:23] Are you a Low Maintenance Plant Parent?
[24:45] Are you a Curious Collector Plant Parent?
[31:45] Are you a Design-Based Plant Parent?
[39:32] Are you an Urban Farmer Plant Parent?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For personalized plant care tips and more insights into your plant parent personality,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Behind the Scenes with a Garden Center Owner

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

What makes your local garden center feel so special? Don’t you notice that there’s something magical about them? It’s kinda shocking how little we understand as consumers about all the effort that goes into getting plants to us and onto our windowsills. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes at the Garden Center that we don't know about. That's why I'm committed to having more people on this podcast to peel back the curtain of the horticulture industry and help us better understand how our plants get to us.

I'm excited to share my conversation with Jessie Jacobson of Tonkadale Greenhouse in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Jessie is an example of what a passionate multi-generational family business can look like.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:38] What is the story behind Tonkadale Greenhouse?
[08:37] Growing vs selling plants
[12:03] How does the business keep up with modern times?
[14:01] What are the mission, vision, and core values of Tonkadale?
[15:27] Gift peace and joy this season with Wind River Chimes!
[17:05] Give your houseplants the organic love they deserve with Espoma!
[20:34] What does Jessie’s day look like as a garden center owner?
[23:33] Ordering and planning in gardening
[25:08] Why you should always visit an independent garden center
[26:26] Seasonal revenue + challenges
[30:25] Be a better low-maintenance plant parent with Crescent Garden TrueDrop Self-Watering Planters!
[32:37] What keeps Jessie motivated? (aka the joy of gardening)
[36:26] What advice can Jessie give to aspiring garden center owners?
[41:20] What’s next for Tonkadale Greenhouse?
[44:05] Where can you find Tonkadale on social media and onsite?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a deeper dive into the industry of garden centers,

Follow Jessie:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Budget Friendly Ways to Elevate Your Garden

Tue, 8 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, if you are anything like me, you LOVE a good deal, especially when it comes to your garden. After all, it can be costly to buy every gardening tool out there that just seems to drain your bank account. Luckily for us, I picked the brain of my new plant friend—Robbie from Visit Our Garden. Robbie’s garden is a marvel in itself, but even more exciting is how he has mastered the art of making it look luxe on a budget. So in this episode, I’m sharing some of his budget hacks that you can apply to your own garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:30] Who is Robbie from Visit Our Garden?
[07:41] What does Robbie’s garden look like?
[11:14] Tip 1: Espalier + buying trees bare root
[15:48] Create a successful garden with Gardener's Supply Company’s high-quality products!
[17:11] Gift yourself or a loved one a moment of peace and joy with Wind River Chimes!
[21:22] Tip 2: DIY cement garden art
[28:00] Tip 3: Painting your fence
[30:44] Shop nutrient-rich mixes from Espoma Organic for easier, more sustainable gardening!
[33:58] Tip 4: Shopping smart
[40:34] Tip 5: Find inspiration in a lot of places (eg. Pinterest)
[44:57] Where can you find Robbie on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For more of Robbie's best budget-friendly garden secrets,

Follow Robbie:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Plants Teach Us to Adapt to Change

Tue, 1 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever felt lost while experiencing change? In fact, I've been thinking a lot about the concept of transplant shock lately, as it has been a beautiful metaphor for what I am personally going through right now after moving 1,500 miles from New York to Florida. It's a plant-life parallel that gave me so much comfort and guidance during this season of discomfort and change, and I have a feeling that it will resonate with many of you. So in this episode, we’re talking about “transplant shock” and the change and the lessons we can learn during challenging times.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:24] How can we express change in different ways?
[02:50] What are the top three stressors for humans?
[04:18] Why did I experience transplant shock?
[06:50] Wilted plant = transplant shock
[07:54] Plant-life parallels and personal reflections
[09:51] What is transplant shock?
[10:33] What are the symptoms of transplant shock?
[10:43] How can a plant recover from transplant shock?
[12:21] What does transplant shock look like in humans?
[13:36] How do you treat transplant shock in humans?
[15:37] Bring more light and positivity to your plants and life with Soltech grow lights!
[17:03] Start planning your next gardening season with the Tiny Farm Planner by Jill Ragan!
[18:28] Why you should be patient
[20:55] Nutrient of “socialization”
[22:00] How to turn transplant shock into growth

Mentioned in our conversation:

For useful insights on how to deal with change,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Quarto: The Tiny Farm Planner: Record Keeping, Seasonal To-Dos, and Resources for Managing Your Small-Scale Home Farm by Jill Ragan

Pick it up at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What You Need to Know About the Autumnal Equinox // Seasonal Sessions

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

No matter what season it is, now being summer into fall, the shifting of the seasons provides an opportunity and an external trigger for us to reflect internally. I had my dear friend Rachael from Our Infinite Nature back on the show to help us navigate the upcoming season. If you've been following me, you know how magical she is—she’s my go-to for everything seasonal and spiritual. We’ve been doing these seasonal check-ins, and this episode is all about celebrating the fall equinox.

Let’s chat about what’s going down this fall, not just with nature, but with us too. Time to chill, think things over, and gather what we've got. It’s time to slow down, reflect, and, of course, harvest.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:47] Nature rituals and Rachael’s parenting
[08:05] The gift of a bird's nest
[14:55] Wind River Chimes
[16:38] Espoma Organic
[18:56] How are our gardens, lawns, forests, and local ecosystems doing in the fall?
[21:44] Death as part of nature's cycle
[28:27] How to balance productivity and rest in the fall
[29:14] How to balance elements of fire, water, and air
[30:49] How Libra season correlates with the fall equinox
[35:10] Why we should embrace the changes of eclipse season
[37:01] Some personal practices to do this fall equinox
[42:27] How do the elements of each season relate to our personal growth?
[44:25] Meditation for the fall equinox
[56:04] Connect with Rachael

Mentioned in our conversation:

Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, book by Elizabeth Gilbert
Growing Joy Ep 242: Why You Should Care About the Summer Solstice
Growing Joy Ep 229: Why You Should Care About the Spring Equinox

For Rachael's insights on how to embrace the new season's energies,

Follow Rachael:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I Moved 80+ Plants Across the Country: Here's What I Learned

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

I don’t know how I survived moving all 80 of my houseplants across 1500 miles from New York to South Florida with my husband and our parakeet in our rented minivan. It was quite an adventure, and I learned so much along the way. Despite all the chaos, I only lost two and a half plants, which is an achievement! My husband got an amazing job opportunity. I am fully digital with my business. We wanted to move closer to family. So we decided to go for it!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:18] Why moving with houseplants is challenging
[04:05] How does mindset influence the moving process?
[05:51] Moving preparations and logistics!
[08:20] Why minivans are a must for your plants!
[09:53] What is the best way to pack your plants?
[15:17] Bring a touch of home to your new space with a soothing Wind River Chime!
[16:44] Learn how to create stunning bouquets with Lisa Ziegler’s Cut Flower Handbook!
[18:26] What was the three-day road trip like?
[22:39] Unpacking plants and settling into our new home!
[23:02] How did the first 10 days go for our plants?
[25:17] Simplify your move and your gardening with Crescent Garden TrueDrop self-watering planters
[27:22] Adjusting to our new Florida home!
[29:35] How we lost 2 plants during our move :(
[31:26] How transplant shock is affecting me

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 217: I killed a bunch of plants this year, here's what happened: How to Do a
Growing Joy Ep 61: How to Move with Plants
Plant Audit
Enterprise minivans
U-Haul
Lockable Storage Tote Footlocker
PAR Meter
Hygrometers
Soltech Aspect™ LED Growlight

For a complete rundown of my New York to Florida move,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa M Ziegler

Pick up The Cut Flower Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hoya Care for Beginners

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

There are so many different reasons to love hoyas, plant friends. They are gorgeous, drought-tolerant, and relatively easy to care for once you nail down a few key tips! Hoyas had a moment on social media in 2021 and 2022 due to their incredible diversity—Hoyas can look so different from each other, and if you’re a curious plant collector (see which one are you with my plant personality test), this is the perfect genus for you!

In this ongoing mini-series, I’ll take you through how to care for hoyas indoors and I will also introduce you to my favorite Proven Winners varieties!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:27] Why is Hoya the perfect plant?
[03:12] How Hoya became part of my wedding!
[03:49] Where can you find Hoyas?
[04:43] Hoya care: lighting
[06:01] Hoya care: watering
[07:14] Hoya care: soil
[08:05] Hoya care: humidity
[08:31] Hoya care: potting
[09:38] How to get your Hoya to bloom
[12:18] How to trellis your Hoya
[14:03] My favorite Proven Winners leafjoy™ Hoyas?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For my proven and tested tips on hoya care,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

To care for hoyas successfully, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

5 Tips for Growing in Hot Climates

Tue, 3 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Big news, plant friends. I've moved! After four wonderful years living in the Catskills my husband and I have packed up our lives–and my plants–and headed south to Florida. That’s from Zone 6B to Zone 10B! As a lifelong New Yorker, I've only ever known four distinct seasons. But now, I’m literally going to experience a whole new gardening action in a climate that feels almost tropical. And I'm feeling like a total beginner again. So, I called in the big guns—my friend Janey from Dig, Plant, Water, Repeat. She's a hot climate gardening expert, and she's got some amazing tips for us hot climate gardeners!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] I’ve moved to Florida!
[04:36] What should you do when changing garden zones?
[05:04] Who is Janey Santos?
[12:16] What are temperennials?
[13:47] What is “true annual”?
[15:49] Wind River Chimes
[17:24] Espoma Organic
[18:50] What are other examples of temperennials?
[22:03] What are some gardening tips for hot climates?
[24:39] Why drip irrigation could be useful
[29:09] Why should you use mulch?
[31:09] The best kind of mulch
[32:02] Garden Supply Company
[37:56] Why should you know your season?
[40:20] What does Janey’s garden look like?
[43:42] Connect with Janey

Mentioned in our conversation:

Best for the West - Janey Santos of Dig, Plant, Water, Repeat
Growing Joy Ep 176: Landscaping in the Southwest
Growing Joy Ep 241: Small Space Cut Flower Gardening for Beginners
Growing Joy Ep 06: Enjoy a Living, Potted Christmas Tree for the Holiday Season!
Supertunia Vista® Bubblegum®
Lantana
Caladium
Monrovia
Youtube video: 🌱 Surprising My Pregnant Sister with a Dream Raised Bed Garden!
Cool Flowers: How to Grow and Enjoy Long-Blooming Hardy Annual Flowers Using Cool Weather Techniques

For Janey's reliable hot climate gardening tips,

Follow Janey:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pet Friendly Plants

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

You've probably seen that funny meme going around that says "pets are the new children, and plants are the new pets." I couldn't agree more! We're all out here treating our plants like our babies and our pets like our kids. But what happens when these two loves collide—and your toxic plant harms your pet? In this episode, I share the different plants that are safe for our furry babies, how to keep pets away from toxic plants, and other things to keep in mind when caring for both plants and pets.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:44] Things you need to know if you have pets and plants
[04:10] Which plants are the most toxic for pets?
[05:34] How do you keep your pets away from your plants?
[09:07] Make summer unforgettable with a personalized Wind Chime!
[10:42] Protect your pets and the planet with high-quality, organic plant products
[13:10] Which plants are pet-friendly?
[15:25] What other resources can help you?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Anthurium Care 101

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Anthuriums have everything a plant parent could want. This genus has the most widely distributed, easily grown plants as well as some rare and expensive collectibles. Both its leaves and flowers are also indispensable. I especially love it because of its heart-shaped leaves and its gorgeous long, skinny stems. And I’ll tell you all about it and how to care for it in this episode of Proven Winners Mini Series.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:17] Why I love Anthuriums!
[02:55] Anthurium mental wellness note
[03:56] High-level overview of the Anthurium genus!
[06:56] Care #1: Watering your anthurium
[07:21] Care #2: Light requirements for anthurium
[08:07] Care #3: Humidity needs for anthurium
[09:18] How to troubleshoot your anthurium problems
[12:27] Take my Plant Parent Personality test!
[12;46] Thank you, Proven Winners Leafjoy!
[14:04] What are the different Anthurium varieties?
[20:49] Which Anthurium variety suits your plant personality?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Dome Glass Cloche
Glass Terrarium
Grow Light
Mini Watering Globe Set
Arching Amour™ Alexandrite is Right™ (Crystallinum)
Arching Amour™ Heart's Desire™
Arching Amour™ Tall Tale™ (Bird's Nest Anthurium)
Arching Amour™ Follow Your Heart™ (Brownii)
Growing Joy Episode 92: Begonias with Marc from NYBG

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want an indoor anthurium jungle, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Business of Horticulture

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

How do you level up from being a casual plant lover to a true pro in the horticulture industry? What does it take to become one? There are plenty of things we don't get as hobbyists about the horticulture industry—so much more happening behind the scenes than we can imagine. Fortunately, Leslie Halleck, a favorite guest on the podcast and one of my best plant friends, is here to tell us about how the horticulture industry works and how you might become part of it!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:45] How to turn plant passion into a horticultural career
[06:54] What is Leslie's background in horticulture?
[14:46] Don't let shorter days dim your plant's shine with Soltech grow lights!
[17:01] Nourish your plants with Espoma’s premium organic products!
[18:42] Leslie’s career transitions
[23:04] What other jobs are in the horticulture field?
[24:52] How do plants get from farm to store?
[29:23] What affects plant prices and availability?
[34:58] What are the common mistakes aspiring plantrepreneurs make?
[40:53] What are the educational pathways in horticulture?
[48:49] Why is horticulture mostly family businesses?
[51:48] Women's positions in a male-dominated horticultural sector
[53:27] Leslie’s new horticulture business courses + coaching programs
[01:00:37] Where can you find out more about Leslie?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a deeper look into the processes behind the plant industry,

Follow Leslie:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Use Nature as a Spiritual and Wellness Tool with Jessica Zweig

Tue, 6 Aug 2024 06:00:00 +0000

How many times have you heard someone say "My garden is my therapy" or "Plant care is self-care”? These phrases have become so popular lately, and they're absolutely true! As someone who's written a whole book on this topic, I can tell you that being connected to nature gives us so many gifts: perspective, gratitude, love, and as we'll explore today, reverence and reciprocity. I have a deep-rooted connection with Gaia (or Mother Earth) that I’m gonna share with my equally deeply spiritual friend, Jessica Zweig, business coach and author of ‘The Light Work’. We both have spookily similar experiences moving out of congested cities into nature and seeing the shifts in our systems and lives that have happened. I hope you take something good from this ep!

In this episode, we learn:

[06:38] Jessica’s evolution of connecting with nature
[10:41] Moving to the countryside
[14:40] Unwind and relax with Wind River Chimes
[16:15] Begin your homesteading life with Simple Country Living by Annette Thurman
[17:22] How does nature help alleviate our worries?
[20:36] What is the practice of reciprocity?
[23:14] What is the frequency of Gaia?
[26:28] What are the codes of Gaia?
[30:21] Successfully grow anything with Gardener Supply Company
[32:17] Meeting the Kichwa Anangu tribe
[36:45] Where can you find Jessica’s book?
[38:25] Where can you find Jessica on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Birds of Tennessee Field Guide (Bird Identification Guides) by Stan Tekiela
Merlin Bird ID
Simply Be by Jessica Zweig
The Light Work by Jessica Zweig
Comunidad Kichwa Añangu
Lion’s Gate Activation Summit

For Jessica's nature-based wellness practices,

Follow Jessica:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Quarto: Simple Country Living by Annette Thurmon

Grab Simple Country Living: Techniques, Recipes, and Wisdom for the Garden, Kitchen, and Beyond by Annette Thurmon at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Garden to Table Recipes

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Are you running out of ideas on how to use the tomato and cucumber harvest from your garden? As summer goes on, many gardeners end up with a ton of produce they don't know what to do with. Those eight tomato plants that seemed like a good idea in spring are now producing more than you can eat! But my guest this episode has got you covered with some of her delicious and creative ways to use up your garden bounty. I had an amazing conversation with Julia from Lemon Stripes about her new cookbook "Garden Grown," and I'm excited to share some fantastic recipes and preservation techniques that will help you make the most of your tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:51] Who is Julia and how did she start her gardening journey?
[08:06] Julia’s small-scale homesteading project
[11:15] What are her tomato recipes (tomato confit!)
[15:24] Actionable garden solutions in any weather with Kim Stoddart's "The Climate Change Resilient Vegetable Garden"
[16:52] How to preserve your harvest
[19:12] How to make a tomato tart
[21:58] What is cowboy caviar?
[24:51] Fish with tomato recipe
[28:17] Simple pickling recipes!
[30:30] Cucumber Basil Margarita Recipe!
[32:40] What is a hot and cold cucumber salad?
[34:46] Marinated cucumbers (a snack homage)
[39:03] Vegetarian rainbow rolls (with peanut sauce)
[43:00] Herb salt and homemade teas!
[47:08] Exploring shrubs and simple syrups
[50:55] Where can you find Julia and her book, Garden Grown?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 195: Homesteading for Beginners with Michelle Bruhn and Stephanie Thurow
RITUAL ZERO PROOF Tequila Alternative
Garden Grown by Julia Dzafic
Anel Dzafic (@botanicalbosnian)

For Julia's easy and delicious tomato and cucumber recipes,

Follow Julia:

Recipes

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: The Climate Change-Resilient Vegetable Garden by Kim Stoddart

Grab the book at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Growing Joy "After Dark": Spilling the Planty Tea

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Here’s a special late-night edition of Growing Joy with Plants: After Dark where I spill the planty tea and share a cocktail with my two incredible plant friends, Agatha Isabel and Kamili Bell Hill. You might know Kamili as @plantblerd on Instagram and Agatha as @agathatisabel on Instagram. They've been my real-life plant friends for years, and we recently had a blast at the New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show—and had a sleepover at Kamili's house the night before, which resulted in this episode! This is a candid chat as we dish the dirt on everything from embarrassing plant parent moments to the real talk about representation in the plant community.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:53] Growing Joy After Dark: Real conversations about plant parenthood
[02:18] Plant connections and friendships!
[05:36] What has their collection looked like over time?
[11:18] What is the dark side of plant collecting?
[13:37] Get a personalized wind chime!
[15:11] Safe, high-quality potting mixes and fertilizers
[20:29] What are their favorite plant species?
[23:33] Plant care tips and humidity hacks
[26:24] Grow houseplants even in low-light spaces
[27:57] What is the balance between the joy and stress of plant care?
[30:56] Taking care of plants when traveling
[32:42] Resilient plants and hoyas
[33:25] Some plant disaster stories
[37:16] What's the craziest plant experiment they’ve done?
[39:34] What are the signs of being a true "plant parent"
[51:21] Where to find Agatha and Kamili on social media

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion | New York Botanical Garden
Summer Rayne Oakes
Bad Seeds on Apple Podcasts
Bad Seeds on Spotify
Happy Plants, Happy You by Kamili Bell Hill
Houseplant Hookups by Agatha Isabel

For our truest, deepest thoughts on plant parenthood,

Follow Agatha:

Follow Kamili:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What is Regenerative Gardening and Permaculture?

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever come across the terms "regenerative gardening," "permaculture," or even "chaos gardening"? These are all over social media lately, but what do they actually mean? And more importantly, how can we use these practices to grow happier, healthier plants while also helping Mother Nature? Today's episode is a deep dive into all of this with my new plant friend, Stephanie Rose, founder of Garden Therapy and author of 12 books, who is so committed to helping you garden for at least five minutes a day to receive the benefits gardening can give us. Let's break it down!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:15] How Stephanie got into regenerative gardening and built Garden Therapy
[07:15] What is permaculture?
[09:46] What is the origin of Stephanie’s ‘charity garden’?
[14:55] Grow your dream garden with Gardener's Supply Company
[16:39] Sustainable gardening with high-quality products from Espoma Organic
[21:18] What is chaos gardening?
[24:32] Regenerative gardening vs permaculture
[26:36] What is the ‘no-till’ method?
[29:34] Try Crescent Garden's self-watering planters
[32:15] What is hügelkultur?
[35:00] What is the relationship between lasagna garden and hügelkultur?
[36:51] The difference between a regenerative approach to soil and a basic gardener's approach to soil?
[38:44] Different water conservation methods for regenerative gardening
[42:11] How does intensive planting benefit gardeners?
[48:09] Why do regenerative gardens tend to have fewer pests?
[51:26] Regenerative projects that Stephanie has planned for her new house?
[58:47] Where can you find Stephanie online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Northwest Flower and Garden Show
Books by Stephanie Rose:
Garden Alchemy
Regenerative Garden
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

For Stephanie's regenerative gardening tips,

Follow Stephanie:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Crescent Garden

Head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Understanding Natural Light Levels for Thriving Houseplants // Do You Have Bright Light, Bright Indirect Light or Low Light for Houseplants?

Tue, 9 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

You are likely overestimating how much light you have in your home for your houseplants, plant friends! Yes, it's a tough truth to swallow. In fact, the largest cause of houseplant death is a misunderstanding of light. That’s because our houseplants perceive light differently from us. Don’t worry, because I have your back. I've spent seven years learning about light and distilling everything I've learned into this one short episode to break down how you can confidently assess the natural light in your home and buy the correct plant that will do well in that environment.

This episode is part of the Growing Joy with leafjoy mini series. Thanks to Proven Winners leafjoy for partnering on this episode.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:50] Why it’s important to know your light level before you go plant shopping!
[06:06] How plants use light for photosynthesis to produce their food
[07:22] Why chlorophyll is important
[14:58] Why low light plants = low light tolerant
[16:43] #1 Understanding your window orientation + light exposure
[18:12] Look for obstructions outside your window
[20:57] #2 Defining direct, indirect, and low light situations!
[24:27] Supplement with grow lights
[25:34] Troubleshooting common light issues

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a complete guide on indoor light levels,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners leafjoy

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Interior Design for Beginners // Interior Design Principles for Houseplant Lovers

Tue, 2 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Plants just help liven up any space, that’s a fact. And I don't know if you know this, but I suck at interior design. It does not come naturally to me. I often overlook details—and interior design in general is about the details. I came to houseplants for the aesthetic because plants seem to be the common thread of all the design magazines, articles, and inspirations that I was reading as I was curating my apartment in New York City.

And when you have a lot of houseplants, that can create a chaotic, cluttered interior. That's why I'm sitting down with interior design expert and my friend, Betsy Helmuth, the founder of Uploft Interior Design and the host of the Affordable Interior Design podcast to discuss some basic interior design principles that we can tailor specifically for houseplant lovers.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:21] What exactly is the focus of Betsy's Uploft Interior Design?
[06:45] How to find your interior style
[10:26] What are the most popular interior design styles?
[14:01] Nature-based aesthetics you should keep our eyes out for
[15:25] Give the gift of peace and beauty this summer with a personalized Wind River Chime!
[17:00] Grow happier houseplants with Espoma Organic's high quality gardening products!
[20:37] How do you blend two different interior design styles using a 'two-word phrase' approach?
[27:54] Why choosing an inspiration piece is important
[29:02] How to choose the right color palettes
[33:18] Styling with plants and pots
[34:59] What is the 60-30-10 rule?
[39:32] Other rules and guidelines for starting interior design projects
[43:03] How plant placement affects interior design choices
[46:19] What are the common mistakes people make with art/wall decor?
[48:45] Tips for people who are scared to get art
[50:54] Innovative planter solutions
[53:06] What can you do in the bedroom to make it cozy?
[58:43] Where can you find Betsy on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Affordable Interior Design: High-End Tips for Any Budget by Betsy Helmuth
Apartment Therapy
Houzz
West Elm
Pottery Barn
World Market
AptDeco
Justina Blakeney (@justinablakeney)
The New Bohemians by Justina Blakeney
Eco Wall Planters by WallyGrow

For Betsy's expert tips on easy and affordable home decor,

Follow Betsy:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stop Killing Ferns! How to Care for Ferns

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

I have always been a fan of ferns, but for some reason, I could never manage to keep them alive. But those days are over, and I have done a complete 180 on ferns! If you've been listening to this podcast for a while, you've probably heard me say how I don't like ferns and how they're just not my recommended houseplant. However, for the past year or so, I've been successfully caring for ferns, and I'm obsessed. I've learned so much, and I can't wait to share my top tips with you!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:10] Ferns 101
[04:03] How resilient are ferns?
[05:00] What are the brown spots you see on ferns?
[05:34] Are ferns a good choice for a home with limited natural light?
[06:32] How should you water your ferns?
[07:33] The right kind of pots to use
[09:13] How sphagnum moss helps keep ferns healthy
[09:51] How important is the humidity for ferns?
[11:40] What are the benefits of grouping plants together?
[12:09] How to fertilize your fern
[12:39] How to prune ferns
[14:04] Troubleshooting tips for ferns
[16:43] Proven Winners Leafjoy Fern species
[17:49] What ferns are not recommended for beginners?
[19:27] Ferns to bring home: Bird's nest fern
[20:35] Ferns to bring home: Rabbit's foot fern
[21:43] Ferns to bring home: Boston fern/Lemon button fern
[22:15] Ferns to bring home: Staghorn fern

Mentioned in our conversation:

For all of my foolproof tips on fern care,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why You Should Care About the Summer Solstice

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Can you feel that summer energy in the air? The summer solstice is upon us—the longest day of the year and the official start of the summer season. For us plant parents, this transition is everything. All our patient tending in the spring is paying off as our gardens burst into full bloom.

The summer solstice is a powerful energetic pivot point that I always like to honor and celebrate. And I am so delighted to have my dear friend Rachael of Our Infinite Nature join us again in this episode! Rachael is our resident modern green witch—she has such a beautiful way of connecting plants, nature, and spirituality. In our conversation, we explored what the solstice means from an energetic and astrological perspective, and how we can align ourselves with these potent seasonal energies.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:00] What does summer mean to Rachael?
[05:27] What is the energy of summer?
[06:30] Why fire is vital for growth in plants and humans
[10:24] What is the difference between spring's action-taking energy and summer's action-maintaining energy?
[15:03] Make any summer gift unforgettable with a personalized Wind River Chime!
[16:38] Take the stress out of summer gardening with Crescent Garden TrueDrop Self Watering Planters!
[19:19] What's going on astrologically these days?
[23:13] Is fire energy out of balance in our world, leading to burnout?
[24:13] How can we use the elements (earth, water, fire, air) to address burnout, especially during the summer solstice? (and a little bit of meditation!)
[29:57] Feed your plants with Espoma Organic for beautiful summer blooms and delicious harvests!
[31:42] What are some ways to work with the element of air?
[32:27] Connecting with the elements: water, earth, air
[38:03] How do you ritualize the summer solstice?
[41:25] Where can you find Rachael on social media?
[41:52] Summer solstice meditation

Mentioned in our conversation:

DIY Spring Flower Crown | Easy Craft Tutorial!
Growing Joy Ep 234: Eco Anxiety with Rachael
Growing Joy Ep 223: Cultivating Intuition with Nature with Rachael
Growing Joy Ep 223: Plant Magic: How to Be a Green Witch with Rachael

For Rachael's recommendations on balancing the different elements this solstice,

Follow Rachael:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Small Space Cut Flower Gardening for Beginners

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Some of my happiest childhood memories are of my mom's garden bursting with homegrown flower bouquets. Whenever we had visitors, she'd snip whatever was in bloom, bundle it up with herbs from her kitchen garden, wrap it in a wet paper towel and tinfoil, and gift it to our guests. I just thought it was the simplest, kindest way to grow joy for herself and for her friends—and that's the beauty of growing cut flowers.

Speaking of beauty, I couldn’t get enough of this episode’s guest and her amazing book! Lisa Ziegler is the founder of The Gardener's Workshop and the author of the book I just devoured, ‘The Cut Flower Handbook.’ We had a high-level overview of what you need to know if you want to delve into cut flower gardening!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:13] What sparked Lisa's desire to grow cut flowers?
[07:32] How did Lisa's hobby bloom into a flower farm?
[10:23] Are spacing guidelines for cutting gardens important?
[13:07] What is the best place for a cutting garden, and why is it different from where you usually plant flowers?
[17:00] Where to get hassle-free self-watering planters
[18:42] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products for you
[21:08] What is Lisa’s garden zone?
[21:47] Which cut flowers are best for beginners?
[27:10] What are the recommended filler flowers to grow with Zinnias?
[28:13] What are the benefits of starting seeds indoors versus direct sowing in the garden?
[31:46] Annuals vs perennials
[34:10] What are magnet plants?
[37:17] Tps for setting up a low-maintenance cutting garden for beginners
[45:49] How and when should you pinch plants in a cutting garden?
[50:38] Is there a rule of thumb for how many leaves to leave when pinching or cutting back annuals in a cutting garden?
[51:25] What are the biggest mistakes people make during harvesting?
[55:59] Why are Bells of Ireland a coveted flower (and what is the secret to growing them)?
[57:11] How can zone six growers use large grow bags to create a cutting garden with transplants and direct-sown seeds?
[01:02:57] Poppy vs cosmos: which is easier to grow?
[01:04:22] Where can you find Lisa on the internet?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Lisa Ziegler’s books:
The Cut Flower Handbook
Cool Flowers
Vegetables Love Flowers
Sunflower, ProCut Orange Excel
Benary’s Giant Zinnia Seed, Mixed Colors
Basil, Mrs. Burns' Lemon

For Lisa's expert flower gardening tips,

Follow Lisa:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Move with Houseplants

Tue, 4 Jun 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Moving is such a pain in the neck. Packing boxes, saying goodbye to familiar surroundings, and navigating new neighborhoods—it's enough to make anyone break a sweat. But you know what can be worse than that, plant friends? Moving with houseplants!

If you know, you know, and if you haven't moved with your houseplant collection yet, consider yourself lucky. Our guest today just moved across countries and into a different garden zone. We've both moved multiple times in the last few years, dragging our plant collections of over a hundred plants each, far and wide. This conversation with Becca from Becca De La Plants was also very heartfelt, as we discussed not only moving with plants but also how it relates to our lives.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:32] What have the last couple of years looked like for Becca?
[06:08] How does it feel to move into a completely different garden zone? (from zone 9 to 6)
[09:06] Did Tucson spark Becca's gardening passion, or was it the Missouri land?
[15:33] Make this summer unforgettable with personalized Wind River Chimes!
[17:04] Discover how tending to your houseplants can improve your well-being with "Happy Plants, Happy You" by Kamili Bell Hill
[18:06] How Becca’s houseplant collection changed since she moved to Missouri
[19:56] How does Becca divide her time between plants, work, and her baby?
[22:00] How did Becca decide which plants to keep when moving?
[26:36] Maria’s method of moving plants
[31:03] New home, new garden? Discover new gardening essentials at Gardener's Supply Company
[33:52] Moving is stressful, let’s admit that
[34:31] What other things should you do on moving day?
[37:19] What difficulties arise in Becca's first month of adjusting to her new home?
[41:58] Maria’s evolving home setups for podcasting
[46:21] How life phases (motherhood, new homes, and personal growth) influence changes in style and confidence?
[52:07] Becca’s profound experience with a plant that shifted her perspective on life
[58:07] Advice for people moving to a completely different place
[01:01:37] Take advice from the old ladies at a garden center
[01:02:53] Where can you find Becca on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 151: Beginner's Guide to Greenhouses
Interview with Maria: Planty Chat & How to Plan a Plant Event

For Becca's moving experience and tips,

Follow Becca:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Quarto: Happy Plants, Happy You by Kamili Bell Hill

Check out Happy Plants, Happy You at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bird-Friendly Gardening

Tue, 28 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

While we are stewards of the land, we are also stewards of the native animals that call it home. And birds, with their declining population, need our help to keep them flying high in our shared environment. Our responsibility is to protect their home, provide them with food, and minimize the threats they face.

When I realized there was someone else who shares my deep passion for birds AND gardens, and that she wrote a whole book on making bird-friendly gardens, I knew I needed to meet and befriend her immediately. So in this episode, Jen McGuinness, aka Frau Zinnie, talks all about optimizing our gardens for our birds.

If you follow me on social media, you know that I'm a crazy bird lady. I think Frankie, my parakeet, knows that this episode is special because he’s especially loud behind the scenes.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:29] How Jen became a plant/bird lady
[08:08] What is Jen’s gateway bird?
[09:31] What does bird-friendly gardening mean (beyond the bird feeder)?
[13:17] How will a bird-friendly garden help you and your garden?
[14:12] What is a native plant?
[15:26] Bring the soothing sounds of summer to your loved ones with Wind River Chimes
[17:01] From balconies to backyards, grow your best garden yet with Gardener's Supply Company
[18:37] What do birds eat?
[23:07] What are the 4 major flight paths used by migratory birds?
[28:48] What can we put in our gardens to help birds build nests?
[31:41] Should you add a nesting box to your garden?
[33:28] Nourish your plants and attract birds with safe, organic Espoma products.
[35:27] How should you set up your bird baths?
[40:36] How should you create a bird-friendly feeder setup in your garden?
[45:02] How to choose bird-friendly native plants for your growing zone
[54:28] What are some easy DIY projects to attract birds to a small balcony/garden plot?
[57:53] Where can you find Jen and her book?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 220: How to Make a Tiny Meadow in Your Yard with Graham Laird Gardner
BirdCast
Merlin Bird ID
Birdsy
Bird Buddy
National Audubon Society
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees, by Doug Tallamy
Bird-Friendly Gardening, by Jen McGuinness
Micro Food Gardening, by Jen McGuinness

For Jen's tips on how to attract more birds to your garden,

Follow Jen:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hydrangea Care

Tue, 21 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowers, and they represent a wide range of emotions in different cultures. Yes, they can be tricky to grow, but they are relatively low-maintenance with the right care! In this episode, you will learn everything you need to know about hydrangeas from Ryan McEnaney aka @ryanplantsplants, your new best plant friend. I bumped into him in Seattle during the Northwestern Flower Show a few weeks back. We grabbed dinner and it was crazy how much we clicked!

Ryan is a fifth-generation member of Bailey Nurseries, which is known for their Endless Summer hydrangeas, Easy Elegance Roses, and First Edition shrubs. His lifetime spent with hydrangeas has given him a strong grasp on their care, and he’s willing to share these tips with us!

In this episode, we learn:

[06:13] What has Ryan’s plant parent journey looked like?
[09:54] What are the 4 main species of hydrangea?
[13:42] Understanding bloom cycles for pruning
[16:56] Say goodbye to balcony watering stress this summer with self-watering planters!
[17:23] Learn how to create the perfect cutting garden for bouquets with The Cut Flower Handbook
[18:25] What is the blooming cycle of hydrangeas?
[20:09] When should you prune hydrangeas?
[22:40] How does soil affect the color of Hydrangea macrophylla blooms?
[28:58] What should you know about planting hydrangeas in the ground?
[30:12] What’s the general light guideline?
[30:42] Common mistakes people make with planting hydrangea
[31:23] Get everything you need, from containers to raised beds, with Gardener's Supply Company
[32:40] Check your hydrangeas’ soil acidity with Espoma Organics
[34:30] Why is it important to choose hydrangeas with flower buds?
[42:42] How to extend the length of hydrangea blooms
[48:26] Where can you find Ryan on social media?
[48:43] Where can you get Ryan’s book ‘Field Guide to Outside Style’?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Ryan's professional and proven hydrangea-growing tips,

Follow Ryan:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Gardener's Supply

Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

Quarto: The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa M Ziegler

Pick up The Cut Flower Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Water Your Houseplants: Everything You Need to Know About Watering

Tue, 14 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that watering is one of the most common causes of houseplant death? You saw a gorgeous new plant baby from a store, and then you brought it home full of excitement and good intentions. In fact, you wanted to do your best, so you read the watering instructions in the packet and tried to follow them as closely as possible… And then tragedy happens. The once vibrant leaves start to wilt, turn yellow, or fall off entirely.

It’s a rookie mistake! But I’m here to share my hard-earned watering technique so you can keep your plants happy (and your plant parent pride intact). We’ve all been there, plant friends.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:27] Why, when, and how of watering houseplants
[04:12] Why do our houseplants need water?
[06:04] How do houseplants absorb water?
[09:04] When should we water our houseplants?
[10:54] Frequency errors in watering
[15:00] How to determine soil moisture
[16:00] What is top watering?
[20:20] Grow your garden with the highest quality houseplants from Proven Winners leafjoy™
[21:52] What is bottom watering?
[24:08] What are self-watering pots?
[25:29] Why you shouldn’t use freezing water
[26:18] Knowing when your plant needs water by weight
[29:45] Why is drainage important in houseplant care?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Soil Moisture Meter
Modern Sprout Watering Can
Plant Mister
Pump Sprayer
Soil Probe
WallyGrow Loop Hanging Wall Planter
TERRAPOT TRCOT 10
Growing Joy Ep 219: How to Care for Alocasias
Growing Joy Ep 228: Everything You Need to Know About Calathea
Growing Joy Ep 232: Everything You Need to Know About Philodendron
What's Your Plant Parent Personality?

For my foolproof watering tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Use Nature to Improve Your Mindset

Tue, 7 May 2024 06:00:00 +0000

How can you use plants to promote more mindful thinking? In this episode, I had the most amazing chat with my longtime plant friend Brittany Gowan (@brittanygowan). Brittany and I go way back to our NYC plant mom days when we used to have plant swaps and brunches together. It is pretty wild how plants can bring people together like that.

Brittany is one of a kind—she blends her skills in psychology and coaching with her deep love of nature. On the show, we discussed how plants can reduce stress, foster compassion, and increase joy.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:06] Who is Brittany Gowan? (one of my OG plant friends!)
[06:16] Finding peace in a stressful job
[10:12] What are some ways that city people can connect with nature?
[12:59] Importance of noticing and appreciating “little things” in urban areas
[16:03] Celebrate special moments and create lasting memories with Wind River Chimes
[17:51] Discover fun, plant-filled projects that add joy to your life with '¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life' by Perla Sofía Curbelo Santiago
[19:07] How has our ability to focus changed in a multitasking-driven society?
[21:53] What are the metaphorical ways light/darkness can be interpreted?
[28:20] How to develop compassion through plant care
[30:09] Add a touch of spring to your home with Soltech's stylish grow lights
[33:42] Finding joy in unexpected, small moments
[39:32] How can plants and nature help with anxiety?
[43:38] Returning to the wild and reconnecting with our roots
[47:06] Meditation and mindfulness

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Brittany's mindful tips on growing joy through nature,

Follow Brittany:

1-on-1 Coaching

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all engraveable wind chimes.

Quarto: ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life by Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago

Grab ¡Verdura! at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble or amazon.com.

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Care for A Lot of Plants (AKA Have a Large Plant Collection)

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you have 250 plants in your home, what would you do? That seems like WAY too many plants to care for, right? But for Samantha Hermann, better known as @houseplusplant on Instagram, this is her second nature. She’s my newest plant friend, and I’m so excited to have a casual conversation with her on this episode (let me know if you want more episodes like this). Samantha has been successfully keeping that many plants alive and happy for years, and I’m sure it’s a lot of work. But she’s here to share her best tips for managing a large indoor plant collection without stressing out!

In this episode, we learn:

[04:46] Meet Samantha, the houseplant expert with over 250+ plant babies
[05:37] What happened at the recent Tropical Plant International Expo?
[11:22] When did Samantha start collecting houseplants?
[15:09] Grow healthy plants in any corner of your home with Soltech’s stylish grow lights
[17:26] Make your houseplants happy with Espoma Organic's high-quality, premium potting mixes
[21:39] Why you should try new methods/species to avoid boredom and burnout
[25:30] How Samantha’s plant collection has evolved over the years
[30:51] What does Samantha’s research process look like for a plant?
[32:30] Why is trial and error in plant care important?
[36:25] How does she take care of her plants every day?
[39:24] What is her approach to controlling pests?
[45:44] How does she care for her plants while she is away? (and smart home gadgets!)
[51:25] Tips for maximizing your plant space through styling and organization
[57:23] What are the challenges she faced having to take care of a large plant collection?
[01:03:03] Why you shouldn’t let plant care become a source of stress (dark side of plant care)
[01:03:59] Tips for moms on how to manage both children and plants
[01:08:35] Starting her Instagram plant account
[01:11:20] When did she realize that she wanted to be a full-time plant content creator?
[01:14:37] Where can you find Samantha on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Samantha's simplified plant care routine,

Follow Samantha:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check out the full show notes and blogs here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eco Anxiety

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever felt a sense of worry, fear, or anger when you think about climate change and the state of our planet? If so, you may be experiencing what's called "eco-anxiety." As plant lovers who are so connected to nature through our gardens and houseplants, it makes total sense that eco-anxiety could affect us. We care deeply about the Earth because we are part of it. So, let us spend some time with my dearest friend and resident green witch, Rachael Cohen, to better understand this concept.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:33] What is eco-anxiety?
[07:14] Rachael’s personal story of identifying/managing eco-anxiety
[09:45] Coping with eco-anxiety
[11:21] How perspective affects happiness
[12:16] What is the environmental impact of our actions, and how does it relate to our well-being?
[15:21] Fill your homes with the most ethereal sounds with the new Wind River Eclipse Collection (use code GROWINGJOY)
[17:26] Discover gardening tips, kitchen tricks, and family activities to reduce waste and save money with ‘Simple Country Living’ by Annette Thurmon
[18:39] What is Rachael's book, Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety, all about?
[20:01] Is corporate responsibility being misdirected, with consumers unfairly blamed?
[22:30] How to shift from fight/flight to parasympathetic rest and digest mode
[24:18] Somatic practices to release severe negative feelings associated with eco-anxiety
[29:01] Finding neutrality and managing anxiety
[30:10] What is the concept of “the mother tree” in Rachael’s book?
[32:25] What is the mycelium network?
[36:42] What are some ways we can give back to Mother Nature?
[41:37] Rachael’s favorite strategy for bringing oneself back from an eco-anxiety spiral
[43:23] How is the book constructed?
[46:55] Where can you get the book?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest, book by Suzanne Simard
The Overstory: A Novel, book by Richard Powers
Growing Joy Ep 229: Why You Should Care About the Spring Equinox
Self-care for Eco-Anxiety: 52 Weekly Practices for Positive, Personal Change Through the Power of Nature, book by Rachael Cohen
Growing Joy Ep 223: Cultivating Intuition with Nature with Rachael of Our Infinite Nature
Growing Joy Episode 209: Plant Magic: How to Be a Green Witch with Rachael from Infinite Succulent

For a list of simple ways that you can give back to Mother Nature,

Follow Rachael:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all engraveable wind chimes.

Quarto: Simple Country Living by Annette Thurmon

Grab Simple Country Living: Techniques, Recipes, and Wisdom for the Garden, Kitchen, and Beyond by Annette Thurmon at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Composting Basics

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

You may have heard that compost is the key to a healthy garden, and feeding the soil is more important than feeding your plants. And if you don't garden, you've probably heard about composting as an eco-friendly way to live more sustainably and support the planet. That is why I dedicate an entire episode explaining what composting is and how it works.

My guest, Michelle Balz, is a true composting guru who has written, not one, but two incredible books solely focused on this amazing soil amendment. By the end of our conversation, you'll understand exactly what compost is made of, how it benefits your garden's soil, why it's so great for the environment, and best of all—how to successfully compost both indoors and out.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:49] What has Michelle’s journey been in composting?
[09:24] How many different composting systems does Michelle have in her home?
[10:20] Compost vs soil vs potting mix
[12:02] What makes compost so special?
[13:53] How does composting benefit the environment, ourselves, and our gardens?
[14:31] Carbon sequestration
[15:40] Discover the secrets to attracting birds to your garden with 'Bird Friendly Gardening'!
[17:44] Skip the hassle of making your own compost with this organic Compost Blend!
[20:51] How does composting impact gardeners?
[26:42] How does compost help support the mycorrhizae?
[27:20] What can and cannot be composted?
[29:52] Is the composting ratio important?
[32:18] What do we need to know about anaerobic/aerobic composting?
[34:17] Indoor composting
[35:07] How does vermicomposting work?
[36:55] How can compost be extracted without worms?
[40:30] Bokashi composting
[42:57] Terracotta pot composting
[45:22] What are the best composting options for outdoor gardeners? (bin and in-garden systems)
[49:27] How do you know when the compost is finished/ready?
[50:13] What is the life cycle of composting, how long until the first batch, and how can you nurture it effectively?
[01:01:23] What is Hügelkultur?
[01:02:45] What is an African keyhole garden?
[01:05:14] Where can you find Michelle's books and social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Lomi tabletop composter
No-Waste Composting: Small-Space Waste Recycling, Indoors and Out. Plus, 10 projects to repurpose household items into compost-making machines (No-Waste Gardening), book by Michelle Balz
Composting for a New Generation: Latest Techniques for the Bin and Beyond, book by Michelle Balz

For Michelle's recommended composting methods,

Follow Michelle:

Amazon

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: Bird-Friendly Gardening by Jen McGuinness

Grab the book at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everything You Need to Know About Philodendron

Tue, 9 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you're a houseplant lover like me, chances are you already have a philodendron or two in your collection. These awesome tropical plants are some of the most popular and beloved houseplants for good reason—they come in tons of different shapes, colors and sizes, and they're relatively easy to care for too! In this episode, I'm going to give you the full rundown of everything you need to know about growing these amazing plants at home. We'll cover the basics of their natural habitat and key care requirements, and I'll introduce you to some of my current favorite philodendron varieties.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:50] Philodendron high-level overview
[09:38] Care #1: Light
[13:43] Care #2: Water
[15:38] Care #3: Soil
[16:05] Care #4: Humidity
[17:08] Care #5: Fertilizer
[17:39] Troubleshooting philodendron issues
[19:10] Thank you Proven Winners leafjoy™ for sponsoring this episode!
[21:01] Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
[22:21] Philodendron 'Brasil'
[22:37] Philodendron 'Lemon Lime' (as seen on my podcast art!)
[24:13] Prismacolor™ Brandtianum
[25:16] Philodendron atabapoense
[26:05] Philodendron 'Silver Sword' (Philodendron hastatum)
[27:11] Prismacolor™ Philodendron Fozzie™
[28:38] Philodendron 'White Wizard' (Philodendron erubescens)
[30:18] 'Prince of Orange' Philodendron
[32:08] Prismacolor™ Sun Red Philodendron
[32:33] Philodendron 'Pink Princess'

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a list of my current Philodendron favorites,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How She Grew The Sill: Plantrepreneur Eliza Blank

Tue, 2 Apr 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you interact with the houseplant community online at all, you've definitely felt the impact of The Sill on our plant niche. I honestly can't believe that it took me a whopping 230 episodes to finally have Eliza Blank, founder of The Sill, grace the Growing Joy with Plants podcast! Her female founder story of recognizing a need for a houseplant brand and building it into a million-dollar company would make you feel empowered, as it did me.

In case you didn’t know, The Sill was one of the OG plant brands that helped start the houseplant craze before the pandemic. And when I first started my podcast, they were also the first to reach out and show their support! So I want to take this opportunity to show you the story behind the success of The Sill live on stage at the Northwest Flower and Garden Festival in Seattle.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:30] The Sill and its impact on the houseplant community
[05:23] How did Eliza get into houseplants?
[07:28] How exciting/challenging is it to launch a houseplant brand early on?
[11:20] How did The Sill come about?
[13:13] How Eliza built a multimillion-dollar brand
[14:25] Why “fake it till you make it” mindset works WONDERS!
[15:47] Create the perfect Danish hygge atmosphere with Wind River Chimes
[18:57] What was the struggle for The Sill during COVID?
[20:34] Navigating challenges in the plant industry
[22:23] What’s the process of sourcing and acquiring plants?
[24:14] What’s Eliza’s definition of success (and has it changed over the years?)
[25:10] What it feels like being a woman in a male-dominated industry
[26:56] Trends and customer preferences in 2024
[29:01] What’s next for The Sill?
[30:01] Eliza’s personal life and hobbies beyond plants
[32:30] Eliza’s favorite client story!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Northwest Flower and Garden Festival
Tropical Plant International Expo (TPIE)
Growing Joy Ep 18: Prepping Your Houseplant For Spring and the Science Behind Fertilizer With Chris Satch from The Sill
Growing Joy Ep 30 Orchid 101 with Chris from The Sill
Growing Joy Ep 38: Transitioning Your Plants Back Indoors for Winter with Chris from The Sill

For a deeper dive into The Sill's story,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Turn your home into a relaxation oasis with chimes! Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. They are launching a new collection of chimes called Eclipse, which are Corinthian bells uniquely tuned to the Lydian mode, a scale that creates an ethereal atmosphere of enchantment that matches the mystery and wonder of the solar eclipse and of outer space. Plus, these chimes make for amazing personal gifts to your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all engraveable wind chimes.

Follow Eliza:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Climate Proof Your Garden

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Climate change is real, plant friends—and it’s impacting our world too fast! Because of that, it’s becoming extremely important for us plant parents/gardeners to adapt our practices to ensure our gardens can withstand the challenges that lie ahead. In fact, it’s already impacting our gardens in SO many ways—from unpredictable weather to increased pest infestations. So in this episode, I invited a new plant friend, Kim Stoddart, who is a passionate gardener, climate advocate, and author of "The Climate Change–Resilient Vegetable Garden," to discuss strategies for building a climate-resilient garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:39] How Kim became a passionate climate activist and gardener
[11:44] The Resilient Gardener vs. The Resilient Garden
[15:06] Deepen your meditation practice with the Wind River Meditation Chime
[16:49] Grow a thriving, climate-resistant vegetable garden with Espoma Organic!
[19:03] What are the climate issues to consider when building a resilient garden? (doom & gloom)
[20:44] What are the effects of soil erosion and flooding on gardens?
[22:56] What does “no-till” gardening mean?
[24:59] What helps the soil become more resilient?
[33:52] What is rainwater harvesting and what are the strategies for building water resiliency?
[38:45] What is the importance of seed sovereignty in creating a more secure and sustainable garden?
[44:01] What specific steps can you take to strengthen your garden's pest resistance?
[46:08] What is polyculture?
[49:57] What is Kim’s current garden practice? (aka what her homestead looks like)
[52:12] Where can you find Kim on social media?
[52:55] Where can you get her book, Climate Change Resilient Vegetable Garden?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 227: Homesteading Basics with Kevin of Epic Gardening
Growing Joy Ep 191: The Mushroom Miniseries: How to Grow Mushrooms Indoors
Growing Joy Ep 189: Companion Planting Basics with the Garden Managers of The Lodge at Woodloch, Ep 189
Growing Joy Ep 183: The Mushroom Miniseries: How to Grow Functional Mushrooms in Your Garden
Growing Joy Ep 178: The Mushroom Miniseries: Mushrooms 101 Plus the Answer to "What is the Mushroom Growing in My Houseplant!"
Growing Joy Ep 123: How to Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles and Other Animals in Your Garden with Brie The Plant Lady
The Woodchip Handbook: A Complete Guide for Farmers, Gardeners and Landscapers, book by Ben Raskin
The Climate Change Garden, UPDATED EDITION: Down to Earth Advice for Growing a Resilient Garden, book by Kim Stoddart
The Climate Change–Resilient Vegetable Garden: How to Grow Food in a Changing Climate, book by Kim Stoddart

For a more detailed list of Kim's resilient gardening tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all engraveable wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

If you want a garden that provides, set it up for success with high-quality soil, fertilizer, potting mix and more! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Kim:

Kim Stoddart | The Guardian

The Climate Change Garden

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why You Should Care About the Spring Equinox

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

What are your plans this Spring Equinox? Spring equinox is like a special day when light and dark are balanced just right. As it draws closer, it comes with a reminder that nature has its own patterns that repeat over and over, and this particular event shows us that winter is ending and spring is starting… bringing new life and growth. Tuning into the Earth's frequencies during this season can help us grow and feel refreshed too. In this episode, I’m so happy to welcome back our residential green witch and my dear plant friend, Rachael of Our Infinite Nature! She’s here to celebrate the upcoming Spring Equinox, share her insights on what's happening in the earth, sky, and ourselves during spring, and offer practices for connecting deeply with the powerful changes that happen in spring.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:58] Connecting with nature and the seasons
[04:18] Cultivating intuition with plants
[05:58] Why “awe” is a spiritual emotion
[09:15] The importance of “seasonal living”
[12:16] What is happening to the earth during Spring Equinox?
[15:48] Brighten up your plants this spring with Soltech's grow lights!
[18:01] Learn modern, low-maintenance approach to home food gardening with "The Layered Edible Garden" by Christina Chung
[20:34] How external stimuli trigger personal growth/development
[25:15] What are the astrological insights for the Spring Equinox?
[29:33] In case you don’t know, I’m an Aries baby!
[30:15] Why new moon in Aries = start of the new year (astrologically)
[32:34] What are the positive aspects of the eclipse season?
[35:09] Gardening tips for different moon phases
[37:52] What are the best practices to nurture growth and vitality during spring?
[45:51] Plants that embody spring energy
[55:25] How to create your own seasonal bowl/altar
[58:10] Spring awakening (a guided meditation)
[01:08:10] Where can you find Rachael?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 265 Everyday Plant Magic with Rachael of Infinite Succulent
Growing Joy Ep 225 Indoor Plant Projects for Stress Relief with Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago
Growing Joy Ep 223 Cultivating Intuition with Nature with Rachael of Our Infinite Nature
Growing Joy Ep 219 How to Care for Alocasias
Growing Joy Ep 209 Plant Magic: How to Be a Green Witch with Rachael from Infinite Succulent
Growing Joy Eo 182 Spring Houseplant Care, Ep 182
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants, book by Robin Wall Kimmerer
¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life: 30 Projects to Nurture Your Passion for Plants and Find Your Bliss, book by Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago
Pre-order Rachael’s new book Self-care for Eco-Anxiety: 52 Weekly Practices for Positive, Personal Change Through the Power of Nature by Rachael Cohen

For a deeper dive into Rachael's guided spring meditation,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Ensure your plants are ready for the spring sun when you supply them with enough light indoors! Soltech Solutions offers grow lights with full-spectrum white light that mimics the sun to keep your plants happy and healthy: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a multi-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Quarto: The Layered Edible Garden by Christina Chung

Say goodbye to long, straight rows of vegetable plants lined up and prone to pests and diseases, and say hello to taking your cues from nature and creating a garden filled with layers of food-producing plants with the new book The Layered Edible Garden. Food gardening pro Christina Chung of @fluent.garden introduces a modern approach to home food gardening that follows nature’s lead by growing plants in mixed communities, instead of in agriculture-centric monocultures. Learn how to build a mini “food forest” of 8 different layers that will produce food for years to come and require less work and fewer resources.

Grab the book at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, quarto.com, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Follow Rachael:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everything You Need to Know About Calathea

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Calatheas have a bit of a reputation among plant parents for being dramatic "divas." And I'm not going to lie—they can be particular about their care. But don't let that scare you off! If you try to understand their preferences, you can totally grow lush, vibrant prayer plants at home. That’s what we’re going to talk about in this episode!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:44] Understanding calathea (now also called Goeppertia)
[02:21] Why calathea isn’t for everyone (so set your expectations)
[05:46] Why calatheas are the perfect statement plant!
[06:17] Understanding the natural habitat of Calathea
[06:51] Why calatheas are called “prayer plants”
[07:41] High-level overview of Calathea
[08:41] Calathea Care #1: Lighting
[11:10] Calathea Care #2: Watering
[14:42] Top tip: Calathea enjoy filtered water
[15:28] Enjoy superior quality and a variety of plants from Proven Winners Leaf Joy!
[17:14] Mindful goal reflection through daily plant check-ins
[18:13] Calathea Care #3: Humidity
[21:04] How do you create a microclimate for your plants?
[22:02] Why Calathea are resilient
[23:42] Calathea Care #4: Fertilizing
[24:08] Calathea Care #5: Troubleshooting
[24:46] Tip: Trim the brown edges off your Calathea!
[28:20] Different Calathea species
[28:43] #1 Rattlesnake plant (Calathea lancifolia or Goeppertia insignis) = low maintenance
[30:01] #2 Calathea majestica Diamond Dazzler White Star
[31:30] #3 Calathea picturata = drama queen
[32:38] #4 Calathea orbifolia = Instagram favorite

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 224: Everything You Need to Know About Ficus
Growing Joy Episode 219: How to Care for Alocasias
Understanding Natural Light Worksheet
Potting Soil Mix by Espoma Organic
Terracotta Pots
Ceramic Pots
Plastic Pots

For my personal ranking of popular calathea varieties,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Homesteading Basics

Tue, 5 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Is homesteading your ultimate dream? Because mine too, plant friends! Like most gardeners, I've always dreamed of someday creating a homestead and being more self-sufficient. I very much enjoy growing my own fruits, veggies, and herbs, but starting homesteading seemed a little scary. That’s why I was so excited to speak with gardening influencer Kevin Espiritu of Epic Gardening, who has spent the last few years turning his suburban property into an enviable homestead. Kevin shared his advice for transitioning from gardener to homesteader, one step at a time.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:43] Managing multiple projects and Kevin’s homestead building
[04:51] What got Kevin interested in homesteading?
[07:59] Homesteading vs gardening
[09:14] What are the aspects/elements of homesteading?
[11:15] What is “greywater” and its potential for water recycling?
[14:17] Different uses of rainwater (and why you should start collecting them!)
[15:22] Experience cozy mindfulness with Wind River Chimes!
[16:53] Learn actionable steps to build resilience in your garden with ‘The Climate Change Resilient Vegetable Garden’ by Kim Stoddart
[18:40] Kevin’s rainwater harvesting system (which gauges the amount of rainfall one can capture over a year)
[21:59] How solar energy works and how the net metering system operates
[26:47] What is the role of a pond in homesteading?
[28:53] Creating an aquaponic system
[31:30] Switch to Espoma Organic's soil, compost, and plant food for a healthier homestead garden.
[33:24] How has Kevin's experience raising chickens been?
[36:51] Chicken care tips!
[39:12] Can you do homesteading indoors?
[40:53] What was the inspiration for Kevin's orchard?
[42:30] What are the various fruits grown by Kevin?
[43:47] What is the food forest approach to growing food?
[45:47] What is Kevin’s favorite way of preserving food?
[46:55] What’s next for Kevin?
[48:08] Check out Kevin’s book, Epic Homesteading

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Kevin Espiritu, Epic Homesteading
Dr. Bronner's Soap
BAR SOAP – Oasis
Aquascape
Carolina Coops
ChickenGuard
Growing Joy Episode 210: How to Grow Citrus Indoors With Danny of via Citrus
Growing Joy Episode 206: The History of Italian Gardens and Italian Citrus With Helena Attlee

For a list of homestead components that you can start with,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition to your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Quarto: The Climate Change-Resilient Vegetable Garden by Kim Stoddart

Our gardens can face a lot of concerns with this changing climate, from water-usage restrictions, extended heat waves, disastrous flooding, “super weeds,” or prolonged pest life cycles, there’s daunting challenges ahead for food growers around the world. Author Kim Stoddart outlines a clear path toward building resilience in your vegetable plants, your soil, and yourself with their new book The Climate Change-Resilient Vegetable Garden. With actionable tasks that reduce resource use, stabilize the garden’s ecosystem, and offer regenerative solutions to the most challenging issues faced by gardeners, this book provides advice to help you weather these storms with ease.

Grab the book at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble or amazon.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Kevin:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Repot Houseplants

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Do you know that repotting and potting up mean different things? As our houseplants grow happily under our care, eventually they will outgrow their current pots. Determining whether your plant needs to simply have its soil refreshed (repotting) or be shifted to a larger container (potting up) can be challenging for new plant parents. In this episode, I will walk you through when to pot up versus repot, proper techniques for both, tips to avoid issues, and how to turn repotting into an uplifting self-care ritual by really tuning into your plants' needs and creating an environment that allows them to thrive.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:30] Things I learned about repotting in the last couple of years
[03:34] Some personal plant care routines
[04:59] Do some spring cleaning!
[06:28] Repotting vs potting up vs potting up water-rooted cuttings
[09:04] Some rules to remember in potting up
[10:43] Do the two-inch “bump up” rule when potting up
[11:59] When should you pot up?
[13:08] What is repotting and why is it important?
[14:36] How do you repot a plant?
[15:03] Get stylish, minimalist grow lights your plants will love with Soltech!
[17:16] Give your plants the love they deserve with Espoma's organic, eco-friendly potting mixes!
[19:08] Common mistake people make when repotting/potting up
[19:30] How do you pot up water-rooted cuttings?
[21:02] General steps for repotting/potting up/potting up water-rooted cuttings
[27:31] The best time to repot or pot up houseplants
[29:05] Why you should not pot your houseplants in dirt from outside
[32:00] Make sure that you saturate the soil!
[32:35] Pay attention to the type of container or pot you are using
[34:08] Use repotting as an opportunity for mindfulness
[37:16] A letter to my pepper plant going into transplant shock

Mentioned in our conversation:

For repotting dos and don'ts,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

With shorter days and colder days upon us, ensure your plants are getting enough light indoors! Soltech Solutions offers grow lights with full-spectrum white light that mimics the sun to keep your plants happy and healthy: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a multi-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

If you want plants that thrive, set them up for success with high-quality soil, fertilizer, potting mix and more! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Indoor Plant Projects for Stress Relief

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Do you feel a little sad or bored being stuck inside this winter (at least those in the northern hemisphere)? I hope the winter months haven’t got you down too much because I know we’re all feeling a bit cooped up lately. That’s why I brought on a new plant friend, Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago, a gardening expert and horticultural therapist, to share some of her favorite simple DIY indoor plant projects to spark joy during these months. Note that these are all featured in her new book ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life, which celebrates little plant-inspired passion projects to nurture our creativity!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:53] Rebranding of my YouTube Channel
[02:43] Introducing Perla Sofia Curbelo-Santiago aka Agrochic!
[04:24] How did Perla develop her passion for gardening and plants?
[07:05] How did Agrochic start?
[09:38] How did Perla balance Spanish and English content?
[11:32] What does her plant collection and garden look like?
[15:08] Make meditation more relaxing and meaningful with Wind River’s Meditation Chimes!
[16:51] Learn how to grow cut flowers with The Cut Flower Handbook’s beautiful illustrations!
[18:41] Why are people drawn to nature and plants right now?
[21:08] Seeking simplicity to escape social media overstimulation
[22:08] Perla’s interesting success stories about bringing plants into clients' lives
[29:17] What is nature’s role in mood and healing?
[30:42] Concept of gardening as a means to reconnect with one's inner child
[34:18] Rediscover a sense of "awe" and childlike wonder
[38:21] What is Perla’s barefoot garden project all about?
[45:02] How do you create a miniature garden for yourself?
[50:34] Get Perla’s book and follow her on social media!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Perla ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life: 30 Projects to Nurture Your Passion for Plants and Find Your Bliss
Book by Florence Williams The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative
GardenComm
My Garden Break
KidsGardening

For step-by-step tutorials on these indoor plant projects,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Quarto: The Cut Flower Handbook by Lisa M Ziegler

One of the most joyful things you can do in the garden is to grow flowers! If you are interested in upping your cut flower game, make sure to grab The Cut Flower Handbook by professional flower farmer Lisa M Ziegler. It is the bouquet-building bible gardeners have been waiting for! Included in The Cut Flower Handbook are 50 extensive flower profiles, planting tips, instructions, and images on how to pinch plants, how to make your cuts, how to dig a planting bed, and more. Plus, there are over 200 photos of the best cut flowers for home gardeners to grow and advice on caring for a cutting garden.

Pre-order now online or in-store, and if you're checking out this episode after February 27th, pick it up at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes &Noble or amazon.com.

Follow Perla:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everything You Need to Know About Ficus Care

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

I am completely obsessed with ficus! Over the last few months, I've been slowly collecting different ficus varieties and learning how to help them thrive. There's just something about the colorful leaves, sculptural shapes, and tree-like growth that makes me love this plant genus. I love my ficus collection and feel like this genus has been overlooked, with the fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) getting most of the hype. But there are so many gorgeous, easy-to-grow ficus species that make excellent houseplants. I have spent the last few months cultivating a variety of ficus so you can grow these beautiful plants at home.

This episode is made in partnership with Proven Winners leafjoy houseplants.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:43] We’re all about ficus today!
[02:49] Reasons to love ficus
[04:03] Did you know Michael Scott from The Office has a Ficus benjamina in his office?
[05:06] How about a Boston fern in Will & Grace?
[05:48] Why Ficus elastica is a good beginner plant
[07:08] How do you care for ficus?
[08:09] Ficus care #1: Light
[09:11] Story about Figaro, my Ficus lyrata, before and after grow lights
[11:11] Variegated/color = more light
[12:27] Ficus care #2: Water
[13:40] Why it’s important to make sure their leaves are clean
[14:58] Ficus care #3: Humidity
[15:56] Ficus care #4: Fertilizer
[16:34] Ficus care #5: Pruning
[17:52] Why you should wear gloves when pruning ficus
[18:07] How to troubleshoot your ficus
[18:15] Troubleshoot #1: Leaf drop
[19:35] Troubleshoot #2: If it's not growing, it needs more sun
[20:12] Get quality ficus plants that are resistant to leaf drop from Proven Winner Leafjoy!
[22:37] Ficus lyrata
[23:09] Ficus benjamina
[24:00] Ficus benjamina ‘Twilight’
[24:27] Ficus benjamina ‘Anastasia’
[24:40] Ficus cyanthistipula
[26:07] Ficus elastica
[26:32] Ficus elastica ‘Abidjan’
[27:22] Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’
[27:50] Ficus elastica ‘Chloe’

Mentioned in our conversation:

Office Ladies Podcast
Growing Joy Episode 51: How To Live With A “Crazy Plant Person”
Growing Joy Episode 125: Palm Care 101 With Chris Satch
Soltech Aspect™ LED Growlight
Cling-On® Anastasia - Weeping Fig - Ficus benjamina | Proven Winners
Plant Tour of Mickey Hargitay Plants

For a list of my favorite ficus species,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Proven Winners leafjoy

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cultivating Intuition with Nature

Tue, 6 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

How can we use plants to connect with intuitive energy? If you're anything like me, simply being around plants makes you feel happier, calmer, and more like your true self. I've always felt plants have some extra special magic that goes beyond their pretty leaves. That's why I was so excited to welcome back our resident “green witch" Rachael from Our Infinite Nature (formerly Infinite Succulent—yes, she just rebranded!) on the podcast this week to talk about how plant care can open up our intuition and help us reconnect with our own inner magic!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:46] Infinite Succulent just rebranded to Our Infinite Nature!
[03:27] Check out Rachael’s Intuitive Magic Group Coaching
[07:57] A little bit about Rachael’s background + certifications
[08:53] When did she discover her mediumship and intuitive talent?
[09:31] Reiki certification and intuitive coaching
[10:53] What is intuition?
[11:30] Understanding energy, spirit, and nature
[12:35] Why is learning intuition similar to learning a language?
[15:13] Experience mindfulness and coziness with personalized Wind River wind chimes!
[16:54] Make gardening easy with Tony O'Neill's Simplify Vegetable Gardening book!
[18:19] What is the symbiosis that happens when we get in tune with nature and with plants?
[19:25] What is the importance of cultivating intuition in harmony with nature?
[20:05] Impact of nervous system on intuition
[21:20] Is instinct similar to intuition?
[22:57] Take your Human Design personality!
[24:50] How can we use plants to connect with intuitive energy?
[26:17] Intuition is figuring out one's next step, not predicting the future
[27:36] How to recognize subtle communication with nature
[30:14] Get high quality potting mixes, fertilizers, and more at Espoma Organic
[33:41] It's your choice to live life through magical lens or see it as trivial
[34:50] What is the role of energy in our lives?
[35:56] How working with plants allowed Rachael to experience life force energy
[38:34] What are some activities that can help you connect with plants and your intuition?
[44:12] How to connect with a tree? (a step-by-step guide)
[50:34] Where can you sign up for Rachael’s Intuitive Magic course?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 209: Plant Magic: How To Be A Green Witch
Growing Joy Ep 165: Everyday Plant Magic
Growing Joy Ep 60: DIY Succulent Crowns
Rachael’s Books
Rachael's Intuitive Magic Course: A 10-session Group Coaching
Human Design Personality Test

For a closer look into magic and nature,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Quarto: Simplify Vegetable Gardening by Tony O'Neill

Simplify Vegetable Gardening by Tony O'Neill of YouTube's Simplify Gardening is a plant nerd's dream: integrating botany, biology, and earth science concepts into the subject of food gardening. Read through an exciting approach that uses science to grow more food and utilizes the interconnectedness of Earth’s many systems to help your plants thrive. This book offers a deep dive into the science of growing a robust and sustainable home garden that will empower you to have your best garden yet.

Pick Simplify Vegetable Gardening up at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Rachael:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Humidity and Houseplants

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Do I really need a humidifier? Why do my plants get crispy leaves when I crank the heat? When it comes to houseplant care, humidity is right up there with water and light as one of the most important factors. I’ve spent years stressing about humidity levels. Fortunately, I invited my dear plant friend and humidity expert, Leslie Halleck, for another session of Grow Better. Understanding the science behind humidity has helped me stop freaking out and keep my plant collection happy.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:44] Beware of random blogs you find online!
[05:43] Why is humidity important and how does it affect the plants?
[08:57] Important role of transpiration in a plant's health
[13:32] The three terms you need to know (relative humidity, absolute humidity, vapor pressure deficit)
[14:49] Grow your indoor garden like never before with Soltech's grow lights!
[17:10] Cold air vs warm air
[20:54] Is your hygrometer relative or absolute humidity?
[22:45] Why is it so much drier in the winter?
[25:18] How elevation affects vapor pressure deficit
[31:00] Methods for increasing humidity
[31:48] Why misting doesn’t work
[33:36] Why pebble trays also don’t work
[35:04] Why grouping plants together work
[37:40] Is growing plants under glass effective?
[40:25] Leslie’s obsession with glassware and mushrooms
[41:26] What is burping?
[42:07] What are Wardian cases?
[42:50] What are Orchidariums?
[49:13] How Leslie maintains the humidity in her house
[51:01] Check out Leslie’s Tiny Plants
[52:14] Sign up for Leslie’s courses!
[54:37] Where can you find Leslie on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Botany for Gardeners Course, UCLA Extension
Indoor Plants: Care and Maintenance Course, UCLA Extension
Leslie’s Book Tiny Plants
Growing Joy Ep 169: How To Prep Your Houseplants For Winter
Growing Joy Ep 107: How To Care For A Large Plant Collection
How to Care for Alocasia // My Favorite Alocasia Varieties! // Alocasia Care Guide
Leslie’s Architectural Digest interview

For a deeper dive into humidity basics and light principles,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Top 5 Seed Starting Mistakes with Joe Gardener

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

It’s almost that glorious time of year again...seed starting season! I don’t know about you, but this is hands-down one of my favorite times in the garden. There’s just something touching about growing those tiny pieces of potential life into healthy plants and vegetables. However, I’d be lying if I said I’ve had perfect success right off the bat. Seed starting has a bit of a learning curve, but making mistakes is all part of the fun and learning in the garden! As long as you don’t lose an entire flat of precious tomato seeds (guilty!), then it’s fair game.

To help you avoid disappointment and heartache in your seed starting endeavors, I brought back renowned gardener Joe Lamp’l to share the top mistakes he sees people make. With years of seed starting expertise, including creating his online Master Seed Starting Course that I absolutely love, he’s seen it all.

Get $100 off Joe’s Master Seed Starting Digital Course!

Discount only applies through January 29th, 2024 so grab it while it’s live!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:13] Joe’s OVG Course and adding flowers to his garden
[08:25] How long has Joe been growing his garden from seed?
[08:51] Understanding the nuances of seed starting
[09:17] What is the educational value of the seed-to-plant process?
[11:56] What are the challenges and differences in seed starting compared to caring for houseplants?
[12:49] How did Joe come up with the top 5 seed starting mistakes?
[14:09] Misconceptions people have when it comes to starting seeds
[15:35] Seed starting mistake #1: Your seeds don’t germinate!
[15:53] #1.a Soil temperature is not appropriate
[16:37] #1.b You plant them too deep or too shallow
[19:05] #1.c They’re getting either too much or too little water
[22:52] Seed starting mistake #2: Maintaining proper soil moisture (weigh your soil!)
[26:47] You can use a moisture meter!
[29:12] Seed starting mistake #3 Light requirements
[30:42] Blue and red light frequencies promote growth more than other light frequencies
[34:18] Why Joe recommends investing in a grow light
[35:24] Seed starting mistake #4 Gardeners often don’t read seed planting guidelines
[40:08] Older seeds may not be viable for planting (so check the sell date!)
[41:25] #5 Process of “hardening off” (preparing seedlings for outdoor life)
[48:21] Where can you enroll in Joe’s seed starting class?
[53:18] Sign up for Joe's Master Seed Starting Course before January 29 and get $100 off!
[54:01] Where can you find Joe on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Joe's Master Seed Starting Course -- Get $100 off with this link!
Online Gardening Academy
Organic Vegetable Gardening Waitlist
Book by Joe Lamp’l The Vegetable Gardening Book
Growing Joy Ep 173: Seed Starting Basics With Joe Lamp’l
Growing Joy Ep 114: Seed Starting 101 With Joe Lamp’l
Soltech Aspect LED Growlight

For a more detailed look into seed starting fixes,

Follow Joe:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Attract Pollinators with a Tiny Meadow in Your Yard

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

When I think of the word “meadow,” I imagine a glorious landscape filled with grasses and wildflowers swaying in the breeze. While beautiful, these meadows also seem completely out of reach for most home gardeners. But in this episode, meadow expert Graham Laird Gardner, author of ‘Tiny and Wild: Build a Small Scale Meadow Anywhere,’ is here to show us that we can recreate tiny meadows, even on the smallest scale.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:40] How Graham became the “meadow man”
[06:27] Living off-grid in Puerto Rico
[07:54] Why did he write a book about meadows?
[11:34] We are nature!
[13:22] What makes a meadow a “meadow”? (and why it’s better than cut flower garden)
[15:31] Treat yourself to a comforting, soothing moment with Wind River Chimes
[17:01] Learn self-sufficiency and homesteading with Kevin Espiritu's book: Epic Homesteading
[18:27] What are the benefits of adding a meadow to your yard or local community garden?
[21:10] What makes a native plant native, and how much of your meadow should be native plants?
[24:11] Are all native plants perennials?
[26:10] Are shrubs and trees what distinguish a meadow from a forest?
[26:27] How little of a lawn could be converted without significantly affecting the overall effect?
[27:52] What are the components of a meadow?
[31:30] Consider seasons and species when planning your planting
[32:26] Understanding meadow maintenance
[35:04] What are the basic design elements that you need to think about in a meadow?
[35:23] Site Selection
[36:17] Layering and plant selection
[38:40] Is there an ideal sun exposure for a meadow?
[39:56] How do you balance the wild and the chaotic when designing a native plant meadow?
[43:18] Seeds vs plants
[48:08] Why should you have a meadow?
[50:04] Where can you find Graham on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Douglas W. Tallamy, Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants
Book by Graham Laird Gardner, Tiny and Wild: Build a Small-Scale Meadow Anywhere
Book by Kevin Espiritu, Epic Homesteading: Your Guide to Self-Sufficiency on a Modern, High-Tech, Backyard Homestead
Homegrown National Park
Catskill Native Nursery

For a complete list of meadow gardening basics,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

This new year, bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition to your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Quarto: Epic Homesteading by Kevin Espiritu

Take the first step towards self-sufficiency with Epic Homesteading, an accessible, beginner-friendly guide to starting a modern, high-tech homestead with advice on growing and preserving food, raising chickens and bees, utilizing solar power, harvesting rainwater, and so much more. Follow large and small step-by-step DIY projects to power up your homestead quickly, as well as advice on more complex subjects, such as investigating local zoning regulations and permitting requirements, staying organized, understanding your limitations, and designing your homestead for efficiency and beauty.

Grab Epic Homesteading at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, quarto.com, Barnes & Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Graham:

Linktr.ee

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everything You Need to Know about Alocasia

Tue, 9 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

If there is one genus of plants that has captured my imagination for years but repeatedly evaded me, it’s Alocasia. These tropical plants with their large, alien-esque leaves and jewel-toned undersides have long obsessed me. I’d often pick them up from the garden center, only to watch them rapidly decline in my dry, temperate home. But after lots of trial and error, I’ve finally cracked the code to make them thrive! In this episode, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about growing Alocasia houseplants, including care tips, troubleshooting, and some of my new favorite varieties that are thriving in my home.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Maria’s experience with Alocasia
[02:21] Why Alocasia is not difficult to care for—it just requires very high standards of care!
[02:43] Why Alocasia are called alien-like plants
[03:34] Characteristics and other common names of Alocasia
[05:02] Where do Alocasias grow naturally?
[06:31] Alocasia Care #1: Light requirements (bright indirect light)
[09:06] Light is very independent of every person's own environment!
[10:30] Alocasia Care #2: Soil moisture (keep them in evenly moist soil)
[11:58] 2 different ways that you can measure soil moisture
[13:34] What types of pots can you use for your Alocasia?
[14:47] Alocasia Care #3: Humidity
[15:28] Why you should use a humidifier
[17:20] Other tricks to increase humidity in your home
[18:19] Alocasia Care #4: Fertilizer (fertilize when you see growth)
[19:13] Alocasia Care #5: Dormancy (aka quiescence)
[20:11] Use plant-life parallels for your personal growth
[20:50] Alocasia troubleshooting tips
[21:24] Understanding your Alocasia's needs
[22:25] How to save a plant from dying
[24:20] Find the best Alocasia varieties for your plant collection with Proven Winners LeafJoy!
[26:41] What are the different Alocasia species?
[27:11] Alocasia 'Ninja'
[27:46] Alocasia cupraea
[28:49] Alocasia baginda 'Dragon Scale'
[30:08] Alocasia longiloba
[30:46] Alocasia watsoniana
[31:33] Alocasia macrorrhiza 'Stingray'

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 46: Understanding Natural Light: General Rules
Growing Joy Ep 47: Understanding Natural Light: Measuring Tools
Growing Joy Ep 74: Grow Lights 101 With Leslie Halleck
Growing Joy Ep 92: Begonias With Marc From NYBG
Growing Joy Ep 200: Common Houseplant Pest Identification And How To Get Rid Of Fungus Gnats, Spidermites, Scale, White Flies And Mealybugs
Growing Joy Ep 213: How Much Light Do My Houseplants Need?
Free Download: Understanding Natural Light
Moisture Meter and Hygrometer Review / Humidity Products for Houseplants Haul
How to Save and Revive a Dying Houseplant: Saving My Prayer Plant from the Brink of Death!

For my favorite alocasia varieties,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

2024 Goals for My Houseplants and Garden

Tue, 2 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year, plant friends! And you know what that means—time for some serious reflection about the previous year and thinking about how we want to step into 2024! I'm all about assessing what worked and what didn't across all areas of life. But today, let's talk about plants and how you and I can use them to cultivate as much happiness as possible in the coming year.

When we show up consistently for our plant hobby, I firmly believe it can help us feel better, more peaceful, and more grounded. So I carved out some time to get clear on my goals based on what 2023 taught me. The name of the game is joy, calm, and some nervous system regulation from our plants!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:31] Let's talk about what our community aims for in 2024!
[05:55] Here’s a framework to help you set your own goals.
[06:50] #1 Look back at how 2023 treated you and your plants (what brought you joy and what didn’t?)
[07:53] #2 Set goals for 2024 (think about how your plants will fit into that)
[10:01] #3 Don't forget to write them down! (as accountability for yourself)
[10:59] Exciting news—Billy and I are heading south! <3
[13:45] Goal #1: R&D (Research & Development) year
[15:05] Try the new Wind River Meditation Chimes for ultimate relaxation!
[16:48] Grow your best vegetable garden ever with the all-in-one guidebook
[18:00] I want to make new plant friends (and get familiarized with the area)
[19:31] Goal #2 figure out sustainable routines
[21:08] What is habit stacking?
[21:42] Take a quick 3-minute break from work
[22:38] Goal #3: Reconnect with the first-year plant parent Maria
[25:13] Follow me on my social media!
[25:40] Exciting new content coming your way - expect episodes on houseplants, gardening, and finding wellness through nature's lens!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep. 165 Everyday Plant Magic With Rachael Of Infinite Succulent
Ep 217 Plant Audit episode (not yet published)
Book by Maria Failla Growing Joy™: The Plant Lover’s Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)
Plant Parent Personality Quiz
Book by Cal Newport Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

For a deeper dive into creating sustainable routines,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: Gardening Know How – The Complete Guide to Vegetable Gardening

Looking for a new gardening book to add to your collection? Snag this all-encompassing guide to growing your own food, filled with creative tips and practical advice from the editors of the world’s most-visited gardening website. Gardening Know How is an indispensable handbook for vegetable gardeners and includes not only the essential information you need to succeed but also a wealth of expert tips and real-world advice to smooth the many inevitable bumps on the road to a productive edible garden. There are detailed plant profiles with specific cultivation information and unique growing tips for each vegetable crop, allowing you to pick and choose which crops to grow based on your climate and personal preference!

Pick it up at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, quarto.com, Barnes & Noble, or amazon.com.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I killed a bunch of plants this year, here's what happened: How to Do a Plant Audit

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Happy almost New Year, plant friends! For my last episode of 2023, I wanted to get a little reflective about the joy and growing parts of “Growing Joy.” This year, I bravely held a funeral for many of my houseplants that were no longer bringing me joy. Yes—I lost a LOT of houseplants this year. Some of the plants I said goodbye to weren’t even fully dead yet. They just weren’t happy in my home anymore, and I took it upon myself to consciously let them go in a ritualized way that released me from guilt.

This is a taboo subject for some plant parents. But I believe we need to openly discuss “plant loss” to release guilt and make space for more plant joy. So I’ll be walking you through my plant funeral experience, and how you can perform your own plant audit to grow even more joy in 2024!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] I recently held a funeral for my dead houseplants this year
[01:21] Why I performed a plant audit of my entire collection!
[03:47] Let’s celebrate plant loss together
[04:09] An excerpt from my book about plant death
[04:41] Two options when a plant dies
[04:52] Option A: Let it confirm you're a failure, then give up
[05:21] Option B: Allow it to make you more curious and a better plant parent
[06:33] Why I had such dramatic plant loss this year (I was diagnosed with melanoma!!)
[08:52] Allow your plant collection to grow and change as much as you will in your lifetime
[09:40] Why I felt guilty about failing to care for the Hoya plants Marcia gave me
[10:25] Learn 30 simple and budget-friendly gardening projects with ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life
[11:45] Find your perfect houseplant with Proven Winners LeafJoy's high-quality, diverse selection
[13:53] Steps for performing your own plant audit
[14:26] #1 Give yourself a nice amount of time, play music, clear table space
[15:33] #2 Walk through your entire collection and assess its state
[17:09] #3 Revisit neutral plants - do they spark joy or not?
[18:20] #4 Gratitude ritual
[19:20] #5 Figure out the highest vibe way to discard your plants
[19:56] #6 Donate your healthy plants
[20:19] You’re still a good person!
[20:56] Consider "life audit" too - are aspects that need culling?
[22:05] Where can you find me on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Maria Failla Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)
Book by Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life
Book by Marie Kondō Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up (The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up)
Lomi’s tabletop composter

For a detailed list of ways to do a plant audit,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: ¡Verdura! – Living a Garden Life by Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago

Celebrates the power of adding more green to your life with 30 simple and budget-friendly gardening projects that promote well-being through plants. Perla Sofía Curbelo-Santiago of Agrochic.com has put together 30 projects found in ¡Verdura! to transform the initial spark of joy from plants into a healthy habit that enhances your life in many ways.

¡Verdura! is available January 2nd so preorder at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble or amazon.com.

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Being Organic Before Organic Was Cool: The Story of Espoma Organic

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

I still clearly remember the first time I used an Espoma product—their liquid indoor plant food to be exact. I had struggled so much with trying to find the right fertilizer for my houseplant collection, leading to a huge mess all over my kitchen from failed mixing attempts. But when I tried their simple liquid formula, I finally had the answer to my search, and healthy, thriving plants with gorgeous growth. And I became a lifelong Espoma convert!

Little did I know then about the impressive 95-year history behind this organic garden brand. Espoma has been family-owned for four generations, starting way back in 1929. As my passion for gardening expanded over the years, Espoma continued to be my go-to for quality potting mixes, organic fertilizers and magical “tones” to feed all my container plants and garden beds.

I’ve loved learning more behind the scenes over the past several years while partnering with Espoma on the Growing Joy podcast. The Brunner family leading this company today truly feels like family themselves in how they’ve supported my own budding planty business. In this episode, I wanted to highlight their heritage, expertise, and products that have nourished gardens for nearly a century.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:48] An overview of what four generations of Espoma’s 95 year-history looked like!
[18:03] How was Jeremy's first 10 years at the company after he graduated?
[18:25] How they address each other at work
[20:07] How has the family business influenced their company culture and relationships with employees?
[22:51] Where can you find the best-quality cultivated indoor plants?
[24:49] What does being “keepers” of the company mean for Jeremy? (Stewardship model)
[27:02] What is the Bank of Espoma?
[29:27] What's the history of their famous Holly Tone?
[33:19] How do they approach Espoma’s product development?
[38:43] On expanding and building a new facility!
[44:07] Why Espoma hid its sustainability approach? (organic before organic was cool!)
[49:10] How do they navigate the complexity of different certifications?
[52:05] On solar-powered facilities and sustainability commitments!
[53:50] Their greatest accomplishments as a family-run company
[01:00:40] How the Espoma brand has evolved on social media
[01:05:43] What does Jaime enjoy most about the business and working with her family?
[01:08:11] The story of how my lime tree Limey was successfully shipped to Florida!
[01:09:38] Where can you find Espoma?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a deeper dive into Espoma's sustainability commitment,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Espoma Organic:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

4 Things You Need to Know about Winter and Houseplants

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The winter can be challenging for indoor tropical houseplants that thrive in hot, humid environments. While our houseplants do not experience the true dormancy of outdoor deciduous plants (plants that drop all their leaves at some point in the year), they can enter a period of slowed growth known as “quiescence.” During this time, they require adjusted care to stay happy and healthy. After keeping houseplants for many winters and making my share of mistakes, I want to share the knowledge I’ve gained about their winter care needs in this episode.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:05] Dormancy vs quiescence
[05:47] Why winter is a great time to explore your inner quiescence
[06:25] #1 The light levels are going to change
[07:14] Why some plants might have more light availability during winter (exception to the rule)
[08:29] Few things to do to help your plants survive the winter when there is less light available
[10:13] #2 Your houseplants are going to hate your heaters
[12:18] Tips for dealing with dry heat
[15:05] Where can you find quality products for your indoor and outdoor planting needs?
[16:43] Looking for unique and soothing chimes as a holiday gift?
[18:48] #3 Winter is the time that pests like to show up
[19:51] How to deal with plant pests
[21:41] #4 Fertilize if you see new growth
[23:28] I just got a Monstera Thai constellation!
[24:26] Bonus Tip #1: Don't freak out that much about dropping leaves
[25:36] Bonus Tip #2: If you’re dying, force bulbs inside!
[27:14] Key insights you can learn to experience quiescence in your life!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For additional tips on winter plant care,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Make sure your plants are all set for the new season! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

This holiday season, bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition to your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones this holiday season!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

9 Jobs in Horticulture

Tue, 5 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered, “Could working with plants really be my full-time job?” Well, dear plant friend, the answer is a resounding yes! There is a whole world of opportunities waiting for you in the horticulture industry should you decide to turn your plant passion into a career. In this episode, we’ll dig into 9 jobs in horticulture with my dear friend, Daniel Fuller. Daniel is a national council member for the Australian Institute of Horticulture, host of the “Plants Grow Here” podcast, and a writer for publications like the Hort Journal Australia.

With over a decade of experience as a maintenance gardener, he offers a valuable perspective on helping people find meaningful careers in horticulture.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:06] How Daniel built his career in horticulture
[09:32] What's the easiest way to quickly enter the horticulture industry and gain experience?
[09:49] #1 Maintenance gardening
[10:11] #2 Retail nurseries
[13:14] What's the best way to learn maintenance skills when you're just getting started?
[15:28] Where can you find sleek, minimalist grow lights that complement your home decor?
[17:22] Looking for unique and soothing chimes as a holiday gift?
[18:50] #3 Production nurseries
[20:47] Why Cert 3 is important in Australia
[21:33] #4 Plant breeding
[24:06] What’s the difference between breeding and production?
[28:37] What’s the difference between garden designers and landscape designers?
[30:18] Where can you find quality products for your indoor and outdoor planting needs?
[36:26] #5 Landscape construction
[38:34] #6 Leadership and management
[43:50] #7 Sales
[46:02] #8 Education
[47:26] #9 Media and content creation
[55:41] Where can you follow Daniel Fuller?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a complete list of plant-based jobs you can explore,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

With winter just around the corner, ensure your plants are getting enough light indoors! Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Daniel:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Much Lights Do My Houseplants Need?

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Do you ever look around your home and wonder if your houseplants are getting enough light to thrive? Without the right amount and type of light, even the most pampered plant will struggle to survive. Yet many of us wing it when it comes to taking care of our houseplants. We stick that new fiddle leaf fig in a corner and wonder why its leaves droop. Or we assume a windowsill equals “bright indirect light” without really knowing what that means.

I know it’s time to bring attention to this overlooked aspect of being a plant parent! That’s why I invited my OG plant friend, Darryl Cheng of House Plant Journal, to explore an engineer's approach to understanding light for houseplants.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:50] Check out Darryl’s previous and upcoming books!
[08:51] Why is light so important for houseplants?
[12:18] What does it mean to have an “engineering mindset on a plant”?
[14:00] What are the different types of lights?
[16:41] Why it’s hard to measure light with your eyes
[18:43] Find easy-care and quality plants perfect for any room from Proven Winners Leaf Joy
[23:15] How can beginners assess their light situation without using a meter?
[25:00] How to differentiate between direct light and indirect light?
[27:12] How does understanding and measuring light exposure affect the care of houseplants?
[30:38] Difference between foot candles, lux, and lumens
[34:26] How do houseplants adjust to indoor light from natural light, and what are the challenges?
[36:56] What is the first step that you should take in measuring light?
[43:16] What was Darryl's motivation for creating his LTH meter?
[44:22] How has Darryl’s light meter been inspired by more complex light meters?
[50:26] How to gather the best data using your light meter
[55:27] Darryl's light meter development process
[01:02:46] Where can you find Darryl on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to Make a Living Succulent Wreath - Succulents and Sunshine
Michaels Greenery Terrarium
17" Living Wreath Sphagnum Moss Form
Greening Pins
Growing Joy Ep 168 Grow Your Own Tea: Intro to Herbalism With Juliet of Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine
Growing Joy Ep 178 The Mushroom Miniseries: Mushrooms 101
Growing Joy Ep 183 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Functional Mushrooms In Your Garden
Growing Joy Ep 191 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Mushrooms Indoors

Want an easy and comprehensive guide on all things light?

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

It's never too early to start thinking about your 2024 garden! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Darryl

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

5 Houseplant Crafts that Make Amazing DIY Holiday Gifts

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The holiday season is officially here! As much as I love this festive time of year, gift-giving can be stressful for me. I always struggle to find meaningful, budget-friendly presents that make my loved ones happy. But this year, I'm spreading holiday cheer by gifting my friends and family homemade plant-inspired presents. Not only is this a budget-friendly idea—it also allows me to share my plant passion with the special people in my life. Plus, don’t you agree that plants make wonderful gifts, plant friends?

In this episode, I'm sharing 5 DIY planty holiday gift ideas from simple to more advanced. Of course, I’m going to make sure there’s something for every skill level and budget. Let's get crafting!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] What are some affordable DIY plant-themed holiday gift ideas?
[04:58] #1 Thrifted propagation station
[08:10] #2 Windowsill herb garden
[10:30] #3 Stylish Kokedama
[15:07] Looking for unique and soothing chimes as a holiday gift?
[16:35] Looking for the best plant genetics and tailored care for your garden?
[18:52] #4 Succulent Wreath
[25:06] #5 Personalized Terrarium
[31:20] Accompany your DIY crafts with my book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to Make a Living Succulent Wreath - Succulents and Sunshine
Michaels Greenery Terrarium
17" Living Wreath Sphagnum Moss Form
Greening Pins
Growing Joy Ep 168 Grow Your Own Tea: Intro to Herbalism With Juliet of Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine
Growing Joy Ep 178 The Mushroom Miniseries: Mushrooms 101
Growing Joy Ep 183 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Functional Mushrooms In Your Garden
Growing Joy Ep 191 The Mushroom Miniseries: How To Grow Mushrooms Indoors

For a more detailed description of each DIY gift,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Put Your Garden to Bed for Winter

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The peak gardening season may be over, but there are still important tasks to do in the garden before winter arrives. As we enter fall and approach winter, it's time to start prepping our garden beds to go dormant. Properly putting your beds to rest sets your garden up for success when it awakens refreshed in spring. In this episode, gardening expert Resh Gala (@reshgala) tells us everything you need to know to properly put your garden to bed for the winter! This episode is a bit of a plant geek fest, so prepare yourselves, plant friends!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:19] Resh's gardening journey and how understanding soil quality led to her success
[07:53] How does Resh balance gardening, extending the growing season, and self-care in her small backyard garden?
[09:37] Creating a greenhouse effect in snowy conditions with bent metal or PVC pipes
[11:24] Why preparing and "putting to bed" gardens for winter is important
[13:20] What are the sustainable gardening practices for winter that you should know about?
[16:57] Importance of adding compost to garden beds before winter to improve soil health
[19:13] What should be done in spring to prepare the soil for planting?
[20:18] Nourish your garden with Espoma Organic's diverse range of organic composts
[22:19] Gift a touch of harmony this holiday with Wind River Wind Chimes
[25:10] Why cover crops are a valuable addition to regenerative gardening and soil enrichment
[28:54] Why it’s easy to grow garlic during winter (keeps pests away, resilient, and is a gardener’s favorite!)
[32:09] Why is it important to reflect on the gardening season as part of self-care in plant care?
[34:09] Resh’s favorite list of what to grow in preparation for the next garden season (tomatoes and cucumber varieties)
[39:59] What kinds of flowers does Resh like to grow in her garden to attract pollinators?
[48:19] Pre-order Resh's upcoming book Vegetable Gardening Made Easy later this year
[50:52] Where can you find Resh on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Building and Installing a Low Tunnel Hoop House — Resh Gala
Growing Joy Ep 168 Grow Your Own Tea: Intro To Herbalism With Juliet Of Chestnut School Of Herbal Medicine
Growing Joy Ep 199 How To Grow Garlic With Jill Winger
Growing Joy Ep 200 Common Houseplant Pest Identification And How To Get Rid Of Fungus Gnats, Spidermites, Scale, White Flies And Mealybugs
Sundried Cherry Tomatoes — Instagram Reel
Tomato crops
Cucumber crops
Pre-order Resh Gala’s book, Vegetable Gardening Made Easy

For more of Resh's winter prep tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Resh:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Citrus Indoors

Tue, 7 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wandered through the citrus section of a nursery, inhaling the sweet scent of Meyer lemons and key limes, and thought “Oh my, I want one”? As someone who impulse purchased a struggling lime tree years ago—which I named Limey, by the way—growing citrus indoors is possible with the right care and conditions. Citrus plants can be great houseplants if you set them up for success, and they present a unique opportunity to engage all five senses! In this episode, I invited my long-lost dear friend Danny Trejo from Via Citrus to share with you everything you need to know to cultivate your own indoor citrus plant, from choosing the right variety to proper care for growth and fruiting.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] What citrus varieties has Maria grown over the years?
[11:59] What is Danny's background with citrus?
[15:01] Try Soltech's high-quality grow lights and get 15% off with code BLOOM15
[17:23] Where can you get the best citrus soil mix and citrus tone fertilizer?
[19:39] What citrus varieties does Danny recommend for beginners?
[21:20] Other citrus varieties Via Citrus are growing
[24:13] What conditions do citrus plants need to thrive indoors?
[28:01] Grow light specifications for citrus (a crash course)
[31:28] Why you should have a proper watering schedule
[34:09] Soil care and drainage hole for your citrus
[35:52] How often should you fertilize citrus?
[37:11] How to prepare your citrus in the winter
[38:37] When is the best time to prune your citrus plants?
[41:40] How to increase humidity for citrus in the winter
[42:53] What are some common citrus troubleshooting tips?
[44:08] Can you grow citrus from seeds?
[45:28] What is grafting?
[49:53] How to ensure that your plant's buds develop into fruit
[51:52] What exciting new sustainable pot line is Danny creating?
[55:06] Where can you find Danny on social media? (use code ‘GROWINGJOY' for 10% discount!)

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Ep 206 The History Of Italian Gardens And Italian Citrus With Helena Attlee
Growing Joy Ep 203 How To Bring Your Plants Indoors For The Winter
YouTube video Limey’s Grand Adventure // Flying My Lime Tree To Florida
Helena Attlee’s book, The Land Where Lemons Grow: The Story of Italy and Its Citrus Fruit
We The Wild
Soltech Aspect Lights Collection
Espoma Organic Citrus Tone
Espoma Organic Citrus Food

For a deep dive into Danny's expert citrus grower tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Ensure your plants are getting enough light indoors! Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Espoma Organic

Make sure your plants are all set for the new season! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Danny:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plant Magic: How to Be a Green Witch

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Do you ever wish you could invite a little more magic into your life? As fall approaches and the spooky season of Halloween is upon us, many of us long to connect with something… mystical. But magic doesn’t have to be complicated or even supernatural, plant friends. The energy of nature that surrounds us every day provides plenty of opportunity for wonder, spiritual connection, and manifestation!

To guide us, I’ve invited my dear friend Rachael Cohen, who is a wonderful example of a modern green witch. While terms like "witch" can carry a stigma, Rachael shows how nature offers a portal to our intuition, healing, and inner wisdom.

In this episode, we learn:

[07:25] Rachael’s journey to becoming the “Green Witch”
[12:54] How did making art with succulents help Rachael find peace?
[15:18] Get a free engraving with code 'growingjoy' at Wind River Chimes
[19:29] Complex history behind the term “witch”
[21:54] How does Rachael define a witch?
[27:24] What is magic?
[29:21] What does it look like to be a “Green Witch”?
[30:30] Where can you find top-tier houseplants grown in the state-of-the-art European greenhouse?
[33:09] Connection between seasons, menstrual cycles, elements, and spirituality
[36:48] How do green witches use the cycles of the moon?
[39:06] New moon vs full moon and the different energies they release
[42:00] Try to read The Farmer’s Almanac to learn more about the moon
[47:37] How does Rachael work with plants as a green witch? (active plant magic vs passive plant magic)
[48:31] Different energies and creation of herbal teas
[52:41] How to identify the uses of herbs
[55:57] What makes people choose tinctures over teas?
[57:41] Spells can include rhymes, but intention matters more than words
[01:01:27] How do you create a spell bag for financial abundance?
[01:04:18] Should planting intention spells align with the new or full moon?
[01:05:50] Strategic plant placement impacts energy flow based on Feng Shui and yin/yang qualities (aka passive plant magic)
[01:11:58] Working with seasons and elements
[01:16:26] Where can you find Rachael on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 60: Live Taping! DIY Succulent Crowns With Infinite Succulent
Growing Joy Episode 165: Everyday Plant Magic With Rachael Of Infinite Succulent
Rachael’s book Everyday Plant Magic: Change Your Life Through the Magical Energy of Nature
Rachael’s book Infinite Succulent: Miniature Living Art to Keep or Share
Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way
Arin Murphy-Hiscock’s book The Green Witch
Juliet Diaz's books
The Farmers’ Almanac

For a deeper dive into plant magic and natural energies,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Territorial Seed Company

Are you ready for the fall gardening season? Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Follow Rachael:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the amazon storefront with links to many of the products discussed today

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DIY Houseplant First Aid Kit

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Caring for houseplants often means dealing with pests, diseases, or cultural issues at some point. Having a houseplant first aid kit prepared allows you to quickly treat problems and nurse your plants back to health. In this episode, our favorite horticulturist Leslie Halleck shares must-have items to include in your DIY houseplant first aid kit so you can effectively treat plant problems as soon as they pop up!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:17] What is a Houseplant First Aid Kit?
[09:46] What is horticultural oil, when is it used, and how does it differ from neem oil?
[12:57] Neem vs neem oil
[15:03] How to brighten up your home and keep your houseplants happy all year with high-quality grow lights
[17:28] DIY houseplant first aid kit essentials: Fungus Gnats Death Drop and neem oil!
[19:44] Is neem oil safe as a leaf shine for plants, or does it potentially harm them by clogging stomata or pores?
[22:58] Why should you include fungicide/bio-insecticide in your first aid kit for houseplants?
[25:52] Does fungicide reverse leaf damage?
[27:46] Sanitizing vs sterilizing (plus products you should use while pruning)
[28:48] What is insecticidal soap?
[30:18] What are systemics, why do they work, and when should they be used? (heavier chemical)
[32:18] Where can you find the best houseplants with scientific care guides and color-coded collections?
[34:15] Where can you find high-quality organic fertilizers and potting mixes?
[40:50] How do hydrogen peroxide and BT work in dealing with houseplant pests?
[41:43] What is a "drench" in systemic pesticide application?
[44:16] Why should you have rooting hormone in your first aid kit?
[45:19] Best tools/gears for your first aid kid!
[45:20] What are sticky traps? (monitoring tool)
[47:07] Rubber gloves Leslie recommends!
[50:15] Why should you use separate snippers/tweezers/pruners for gardening tasks?
[51:57] Folding potting mat!
[53:58] Hygrometers/glass domes
[57:31] Grow lights
[01:00:19] PAR Meter (for professionals)
[01:03:36] Maria’s favorite—magnifying glass!
[01:16:17] Moisture meter
[01:08:49] Check out Leslie’s books!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a complete list of houseplant first aid kit must-haves,

Grab the Fungus Gnat Death Drops and/or neem oil at happyhappyhouseplant.com and get 10% off with code GROWINGJOY at checkout!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Fungus Gnats Death Drops by Happy Happy Houseplant

Can't seem to get rid of fungus gnats? Happy Happy Houseplant knows how annoying it is to see fungus gnats take over your plants, so they created Fungus Gnat Death Drops! Backed by science, tested by their founder Mandi, and loved by their customers. Keep fungus gnats at bay with this microbial insecticide with the active ingredient BTI or Bacillus thuringiensis which kills fungus gnat larvae. Another product to love is Happy Happy Houseplant's Neem Oil kit which comes with a stylish glass bottle, and pre-emulsified Neem concentrate, so you don’t have to mess around with mixing it yourself. No separating or added ingredients!

Grab the Fungus Gnat Death Drops and/or neem oil at happyhappyhouseplant.com and get 10% off with code GROWINGJOY at checkout!

Proven Winners

If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as color-coded collections for the different areas of your home that you want plants in!

Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

Espoma Organic

Make sure your plants are all set for the new season! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rooted in Generosity: Inspiring Harmony Through Wind Chimes and Why You Need Them in Your Garden

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Wouldn't it be nice to wake up every morning to the hypnotic sound of wind chimes gently drifting through your bedroom window, plant friends? The delicate tones of wind chimes dancing on the breeze can turn an ordinary morning into a magical experience.

In this episode, I spoke with the owners of Wind River Chimes to uncover the history, craftsmanship, and meaning behind these musical garden ornaments. If you’re a constant listener, I’m sure you know them as one of my podcast sponsors! Patty, Jamie, Luke, and I talked about the joyful art and science behind creating beautiful chimes that connect us to soothing sounds and special memories.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:10] Why wind chimes have become significant for Maria’s mental health
[03:51] Let’s welcome Patty, Jamie, and Luke from Wind River Chimes!
[05:30] What are their favorite Wind River chimes?
[07:39] History of Wind River Chimes
[08:53] How Jamie and Patty got involved and eventually bought the company in 2005
[10:54] How has the company evolved since they assumed leadership?
[14:03] How the wind chimes are made (tuned pipes, specific alloys, thick walls)
[17:13] How the tones and scales are designed
[18:57] The emotional experience provided by chimes
[19:46] The primal connection of humans to music
[21:45] What is the science of sound? (alloys, testing, parts designed for optimal tone)
[24:55] What are their favorite emotional customer stories involving the chimes?
[31:20] Why does the company commit to donating 20% of their profits to charity?
[34:04] What "harmony" means to the Wind River Chimes team

Mentioned in our conversation:

Corinthian Bells Windchime

For a deep dive into the science of soothing chime sounds,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow Wind River Chimes:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

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The History of Italian Gardens and Italian Citrus

Tue, 3 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Ever heard the saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"? You bet those lemons might have come from an Italian garden, plant friends! To celebrate Italian American Heritage Month, this episode brings us all about the history of Italian gardens and citrus cultivation with Helena Attlee, an expert on Italian gardens and author of the book The Land Where Lemons Grow. We will talk about Italy's epic obsession with gardens and citrus fruits over the centuries.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] What is the deep-rooted connection between Italian culture and gardening?
[07:36] How Helena became passionate about Italian gardening
[11:48] Helena’s garden features and the cultural significance of citrus in Italian agriculture
[13:57] Why is it not advisable to grow citrus in Britain?
[15:00] Get your fall planting and feeding essentials from Espoma Organics!
[16:30] Gift the magic of soothing melodies this season with Wind River Wind Chimes
[18:23] What recurring cultural garden themes did Helena find in all her visits?
[22:05] Revival of Italian gardening
[28:05] What sustains edible gardening in Italian culture, especially in lower and middle-class communities?
[29:59] How volcanic ash from active volcanoes benefits plant growth, particularly in regions like Sicily and Naples
[31:11] What inspired Helena to write her book, The Land Where Lemons Grow?
[34:30] Importance of Italian citrus farming and its link to the mafia's rise
[41:13] Health benefits of blood oranges and lemon juice, especially in preventing scurvy
[44:11] What are Helena’s top favorite gardens to visit in Italy?
[46:41] What would be one way to elevate your gardens in an Italian way?
[47:34] Where can you find Helena on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Helena Attlee The Land Where Lemons Grow
Books by Georgina Masson
Russell Page
Grandi Giardini Italiani

For a deep dive into Italian gardens you can explore up to the present,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Make sure your plants are all set for the new season! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Helena:

Twitter

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Houseplant Styling Tips, How to Be A Professional Houseplant Stylist and All Things Maryah Greene

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

If you love styling your indoor plants and have an eye for design, becoming a professional plant stylist may be the perfect side hustle or full-time career for you, plant friends! Plant styling has exploded in popularity recently, as more people discover the therapeutic benefits of surrounding themselves with plants. In this episode, we'll share insights from Maryah Greene, a successful New York-based plant stylist and influencer, on how she built her brand Greene Piece. You'll learn Maryah’s tips for starting a plant styling company, calculating rates, and her new children's book, ‘Good Things.’ We'll also cover her top plant styling techniques to create cohesive, harmonious plant designs tailored to you and your space.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:26] Maryah on balancing plant collections and responsibilities
[05:48] Why Maryah created Greene Piece and the inspiration behind it
[08:09] How did Maryah's Japan experience shape her passion for plant teaching?
[14:20] How did Maryah manage her first year offering plant-related services as a side hustle?
[17:43] How did Maryah determine her pricing strategy for her plant business?
[20:43] Navigating initial business paperwork and finances
[24:02] Embracing entrepreneurship and appearing on Good Morning America!
[28:55] What was the impact of Maryah's decision on her work and career prospects?
[31:21] How does Maryah maintain balance and fulfillment in her business?
[36:34] What’s the difference between plant styling and being a plant doctor?
[38:14] Maryah’s journey as a content creator and influencer in the plant community
[41:01] Maryah on evolving brand partnerships
[44:59] Top three plant styling tips!
[49:13] What is the story behind Maryah's book "Good Things"?
[53:53] How did the Black Lives Matter movement influence Maryah’s decision to write the book?
[56:36] Emotional impact of the book on both children and adults
[56:36] Working together on illustrations with Alleanna Harris
[01:00:08] How does the book help parents and teachers discuss emotions and loss with children?
[01:02:37] Where can you find Maryah and her book on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Maryah Greene's book Good Things
Growing Joy Ep 185 The Power Of Therapeutic Horticulture
Plant Swaps by Summer Rayne Oakes
Maryah on Good Morning America
Razorbill
Alleanna Harris

For Maryah's expert plant styling tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Territorial Seed Company

Growing garlic for the first time does not have to be a struggle! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow Maryah:

TikTok

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Identify Houseplant Disease

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 21:00:00 +0000

Is your houseplant suddenly dropping leaves, getting spots, or just looking sick? Plant diseases can strike fear into any plant parent's heart. One day your plant baby is thriving, and the next it's on the decline! Plant diseases happen to the best of us. Even expert growers deal with fungal, bacterial, and viral plant infections. The good news is that many common houseplant diseases are treatable if caught early. But plant friends, you need to first know how to accurately identify them.

In the third episode of the Grow Better series with my dear friend, Leslie Halleck, we explore how to spot symptoms, diagnose plant illnesses, build a first aid kit, and nurse your plants back to health.

In this episode, we learn:

[07:00] What is a plant disease?
[09:55] Why do plants get these diseases? (the disease triangle)
[11:47] Factors involved when a pathogen meets a host
[13:11] Difference between signs and symptoms
[16:36] Challenges of identifying plant symptoms
[20:17] Is it enough to know what the disease is before you start treating it?
[20:51] General guidelines for identifying different types of diseases (fungal, viral, and bacterial)
[24:37] What are some common misconceptions about bacterial and fungal disease infections?
[28:19] Disease #1 Powdery Mildew
[30:46] Enjoy a 15% discount on Soltech’s Grove LED Bar Light as a member of the Growing Joy community!
[32:30] Does the idea of gifting mindfulness through resonating wind chimes intrigue you?
[34:30] Disease #2 Molds
[38:12] Disease #3 Leaf spots
[41:14] Importance of having fungicides in a houseplant care kit!
[43:14] Disease #4 Root rot
[45:05] Considerations for propagating specific species (e.g., African violets)
[48:23] Why do viruses generally have no effective treatments?
[48:43] What are the go-to resources for diagnosing plant disease?
[56:26] What is the best course of action for treating black rot on a Dracula or any orchid?
[59:25] Keep your plants healthy by practicing prevention and environmental management

Mentioned in our conversation:

For disease-specific treatment guides,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Soltech Solutions

Bring the beauty of nature into your home. Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Tap into the power of mindfulness and bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check our the full show notes and blog here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Bring Your Plants Indoors for the Winter

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping, how do our plants adjust to this change? For us houseplant parents, this signals that it's time to start transitioning our outdoor summer plants back indoors. While it may seem simple to just pick up your plant pots and haul them inside, there are important steps to follow for a smooth transition.

In this solo episode, I'll walk you through the entire process of bringing your houseplants indoors in 3 phases: Preparation, Transition, and Maintenance. Follow these 7 steps and you'll have healthy plants that continue thriving inside all winter long!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:23] Why it's essential to bring your plants indoors during the winter
[05:54] Bringing plants indoors requires three distinct stages: preparation, transition, and maintenance
[06:15] #1 Check your plants thoroughly for pests
[07:36] How to get rid of the pests
[08:59] #2 Prune or trim any abnormal or damaged leaves
[10:15] #3 Check the soil and repot if necessary
[11:27] Where can you get high-quality soil and plant food for the fall gardening season?
[13:00] Why Kamili Bell Hill’s ‘Happy Plant, Happy You’ is your next best plant care reference
[14:26] #4 Bring your plants indoors slowly or gradually
[15:50] #5 Choose the best location in your home for your recently sun-exposed plants
[17:24] #6 Quarantine your plants and check for pests weekly
[18:55] #7 Adjust watering and fertilizer for indoor conditions

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a step-by-step guide on winter plant prep,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Make sure your plants are all set for the new season! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: Happy Plants, Happy You by Kamili Bell Hill

Plant care IS self-care! In this book, author Kamili Bell Hill, a beloved guest on the pod, shows how taking care of houseplants is also taking care of one's self. Learn easy houseplant care tips alongside lessons like how to use houseplants to live a stress-free and self-loving life. Check out Happy Plants, Happy You at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Can and Ferment Vegetables and Fruits from Your Garden

Tue, 5 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

When you grow an edible garden, you likely end up with a surplus of fresh produce at the peak of each growing season. Rather than letting those precious veggies and fruits go to waste, consider preserving them through time-tested techniques like canning and fermenting. These methods allow you to safely store your garden harvest so you can enjoy homemade jams, pickles, sauces, and more throughout the year! In this episode, you'll learn the basics of canning and fermenting from renowned homesteader, canning expert, and author Stephanie Thurow.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:06] How Stephanie got into canning and fermenting
[07:42] What's the strategy behind the timing of canning?
[09:53] Difference between canning and fermenting
[11:53] Is fermentation a shelf-stable process like canning, or does it require refrigeration?
[13:37] Why is it advised to consume a spoonful of fermented food each day, such as sauerkraut?
[14:31] What is the storage setup for Stephanie's canned and fermented goods?
[15:22] Materials you need for water bath canning
[16:43] Why is a rack required when using your 4th burner pot for canning?
[19:00] Where can you find premium, handcrafted wind chimes that are perfect for gifting?
[20:32] Where can you find potting mixes, composts, and fertilizers for indoor and outdoor gardening?
[23:05] Steps to prepare for a canning session
[28:28] Common mistakes beginners make when canning
[31:11] What are the basic requirements for fermenting vegetables?
[32:16] Why "The Cottage Garden" is your ultimate resource for understanding the history, evolution, and stunning modern interpretations of cottage garden design
[33:47] Difference between dry salting and brining in fermentation
[35:44] Are there any precautions or cleanliness practices to follow during fermentation?
[36:25] What do you need to know about fermenting basics?
[38:31] What is the recommended timeline for fermenting different types of foods?
[39:36] Common troubleshooting tips for fermenting to avoid issues like mold?
[40:24] Should you follow recipes?
[41:01] Where can you find trusted online recipes for fermentation and canning recipes?
[42:15] What are Stephanie's favorite fermentation and canning recipes?
[46:12] Unique or unusual items Stephanie has tried pickling
[49:12] Where can you find Stephanie’s books online?
[51:30] How do you break the seal on the tightly sealed jars?
[52:35] Where can you find Stephanie on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Stephanie's go-to recipes,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Ensure a thriving plant paradise with the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Cottage Garden by Claus Dalby

Explore the history and draw inspiration from different cottage garden design-styles in this organically-written book filled with over 700 full-color photographs. Learn the fundamentals and the principles behind well-design cottage gardens as author Claus Dalby features famous and modern cottage gardeners and gardens from all over the world. This book is your ultimate resource for understanding and interpreting the cottage garden design, so you can create your own! Check out The Cottage Garden at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Stephanie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Forage for Healing Plants in Your Backyard

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

For most of us, the plants growing in our backyards and neighborhoods go overlooked. We mow them down or walk right over them without a second glance. But did you know many of these plants have been used medicinally for centuries? In this episode, we'll share fundamental tips from an expert forager, herbalist, and hiker, Heather Houskeeper. You'll learn basic plant identification skills, foraging best practices, and uses for several common medicinal "weeds."

In this episode, we learn:

[07:14] How Heather became a botanical hiker
[09:30] Juliet’s Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine
[13:14] What does sheep’s sorrel taste like?
[18:54] What should you know when trying to make foraging your new hobby?
[16:11] How does Heather's approach to foraging align with the concept of homesteading?
[20:04] Where can you find the best chimes for your lawn and garden?
[22:15] Why is plant identification key, especially specific to region, important?
[25:35] Why is a magnifying loop helpful in the process of identifying plants?
[26:36] Tips for your first foraging adventure
[28:35] How to approach and communicate with a plant while foraging
[30:51] How does sensory experience enhance plant-human connection?
[31:35] What are good harvesting practices, especially if you're on public land?
[36:21] General guideline for harvesting plants without causing harm to the overall population
[37:38] What is the best way to identify plants while foraging?
[38:34] Why is it important to use scientific names when searching for plant information?
[39:47] Botanical terms and concepts that beginner foragers should understand
[40:09] Radial and bilateral symmetry in flowers
[42:33] Parts of a flower
[44:22] Leaf arrangement and leaf shape
[48:18] Herbalist terms you should know for medicinal purposes
[50:44] Medicinal properties and uses of common plants
[54:04] Healing properties of sorrel plant family
[55:15] Healing properties of plantains
[59:14] Healing properties of yarrow
[01:02:37] Where can you find Heather online?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For five of the most common backyard healing plants and their uses,

School of Plant and Place Connection

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Heather:

The Botanical Hiker

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Common Houseplant Pest Identification and How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats, Spidermites, Scale, White Flies and Mealybugs: Grow Better with Leslie

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

As houseplant parents, most of us will inevitably encounter some type of pest infestation at some point. Seemingly overnight, our beautiful, thriving plants can become under attack by bugs we didn't even know existed! Pests can quickly damage and even kill our treasured plants if left unchecked. In Episode 2 of the Grow Better Series, my dear friend Leslie Halleck is back to teach us how to identify the most common houseplant pests and take action to get rid of them fast.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:07] Happy 200th episode, plant friends!
[07:29] Why experiencing plant infestations is common and not a sign of failure
[10:16] How do your plants become infested with insects?
[13:30] How fungal diseases and viruses spread through plants and insect vectors
[16:58] How overwatering or misting can activate fungal spores brought in on new plants
[17:14] What are the symptoms of a plant pest outbreak that we should regularly look for?
[18:20] #1 Identifying fungus gnats
[20:08] Where to find potting mixes, composts, and fertilizers for indoor and outdoor gardening?
[22:51] Say goodbye to dark corners with Soltech’s all-new LED grow bar light.
[24:52] How to deal with fungus gnats
[29:40] #2 Identifying spider mites
[31:32] What is the impact of spider mites on leaves?
[32:05] Using a handheld microscope for insect identification
[33:14] Why do you need to choose the right insecticide?
[39:47] #3 Identifying mealybugs
[40:43] How to combat mealybug infestations
[42:56] What are the different organic control methods to manage mealybugs?
[44:07] What is systemic pesticide?
[45:31] Other eco-friendly alternatives
[47:22] #4 Identifying scale insects
[48:09] How scales manifest and why they are difficult to manage
[50:11] How to deal with scale manifestations
[53:12] #5 Identifying thrips
[57:01] How to identify thrips damage
[58:42] #6 Identifying aphids
[58:57] How to get rid of aphids
[01:01:13] #7 Identifying whiteflies
[01:03:05] Why you should have a first-aid kit for plants
[01:04:10] Homemade pest control remedies
[01:07:14] When is a plant past the point of no return with pest outbreak?
[01:09:18] Can you propagate a plant under pest attack?
[01:13:00] Where can you find Leslie on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a detailed how-to of houseplant pest management,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

https://www.theprairiehomestead.com/old-fashioned-on-purpose-podcast

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check Out the Old Fashioned On Purpose Podcast

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 08:50:00 +0000

I hope you LOVED this weeks episode on How to Grow Garlic with Jill Winger!

Jill was an amazing and has an incredible podcast of her own all about homesteading and slow living called Old Fashioned On Purpose

I wanted to introduce you to in, incase you dream of a homestead or slower way of living.

Type in "Old Fashioned On Purpose" into the podcast player search bar and go subscribe or click this link!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Grow Garlic

Tue, 8 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Garlic is a staple in so many savory dishes, but if you've only ever cooked with the sad grocery store bulbs, it's time to see garlic's true potential by growing your own. The depth of flavor and variety that homegrown garlic offers blows store-bought out of the water. Lucky for us, plant friends, growing our own garlic at home is so easy! In this episode, homesteader extraordinaire Jill Winger walks us through how to grow garlic step-by-step, select varieties, grow, harvest, and store your own garlic for a steady supply of flavorful garlic all year long.

In this episode, we learn:

[03:09] Garden Society shoutout
[05:17] What led Jill to embrace homesteading?
[07:01] Check out Jill’s blog and podcast!
[09:29] How Jill's garden has evolved over the years
[11:23] Jill’s early years of homesteading and its long-term evolution
[13:18] Why homesteading involves continuous trial and error
[13:54] How long has Jill been growing garlic?
[14:59] Homegrown vs. store-bought garlic
[15:57] How to select the right garlic to grow
[16:08] Choosing a reputable garlic seed source
[17:24] Softneck vs. hardneck garlic
[19:19] Where to find a wide variety of hardneck and softneck garlic for pre-order?
[21:07] Where to get quality potting mix and soil for garlic growth over the winter?
[24:05] What else is needed to grow garlic besides cloves?
[25:37] When is the best time to plant garlic?
[26:41] Why garlic is low maintenance
[27:28] What steps should be taken to prepare garlic for planting?
[28:32] How deep should you plant the clove under the soil?
[29:21] Why garlic doesn't rot or freeze despite delayed stalk growth in winter
[30:32] What’s the next step after planting garlic?
[32:39] How does the harvest timing affect the taste and texture of garlic scapes and bulbs?
[33:52] How do you know the garlic is ready to harvest?
[35:03] How do you “cure” fresh garlic?
[37:01] Tips for storing garlic for a long time
[38:35] Common garlic growing issues and how to address them
[39:36] Jill’s favorite garlic recipes
[41:35] How did Jill’s homestead slowly evolve?
[43:48] How reconnecting with nature and sustainable living creates a natural ecosystem

Mentioned in our conversation:

Garlic Scape Pesto Recipe
How to Braid Garlic
How to Plant Garlic
How to Braid Onions
Lomi Tabletop Composter
Territorial Seed Garden Garlic Catalogue
Upcoming Book by Jill Old-Fashioned on Purpose
Growing Joy Episode 123 How To Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles And Other Animals In Your Garden With Brie The Plant Lady

For a step-by-step guide on growing your own garlic,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Ensure a thriving garden with the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Jill:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

PRE-ORDER THE GROVE GROW BAR!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How They Built a Million Dollar Company: Plantrepreneur Profile with Soltech

Tue, 1 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Soltech has achieved remarkable success in recent years, growing from a small startup to a million-dollar business. For long-time listeners, you probably bought their grow lights already using my coupon code Bloom15, and I’m sure you love them as much as I do! And for those who haven’t, join me in this episode as we talk in-depth with Soltech’s founders and my dear plant friends—Chris, Mike, and Paul—about their remarkable journey, the challenges they overcame, and the strategies that propelled them to the pinnacle of success.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:13] Get to know the three people behind SolTech
[09:33] What is it like to create a multi-million dollar plant brand?
[11:28] Which came first, their friendship or the business?
[12:19] What role did plants play in their college lives?
[12:58] When did they realize the untapped potential and demand for high-quality grow lights
[15:58] The tale of Soltech grow lights
[19:17] Where can you find premium, handcrafted wind chimes that are perfect for gifting?
[24:03] Difficult sacrifices the founders had to make
[25:45] Living together and building Soltech
[26:52] What was their method of accountability and reinforcement for their shared vision?
[30:48] Reassuring signs of progress amid challenges and doubts
[34:19] How did community development become integral to Soltech?
[37:34] Low-cost strategies that resulted in significant results
[44:02] House plant grow lights vs. cannabis cultivation lights
[45:26] Why is manipulating the photosynthetic spectrum important in creating a full spectrum grow light?
[47:02] Why different plants require different colors in the spectrum
[49:12] New product launching soon: Grove LED bar light
[54:27] Tips for installing a grow light and ideal plant distance
[58:38] Obstacles and teachable moments
[01:08:13] What were some notable moments or achievements in the past year that Soltech's founders go "holy shit"?
[01:16:38] Where can you find Soltech on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Curious about the ups and downs of starting a plant business?

PRE-ORDER THE GROVE GROW BAR!

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Soltech Solutions:

PRE-ORDER THE GROVE GROW BAR!

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Power of a Therapeutic Garden to Help Us Feel Better

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Gardening has long been known for its therapeutic advantages and as a place of calm and peace in the middle of a hectic schedule. Garden therapy can relieve stress and enhance our mental and emotional health. In this episode, we'll look at 9 gardening practices that can help you develop a deeper connection with nature—and yourself.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:11] Therapeutic benefits of gardening during tough times
[09:40] How gardening can help you with focus and monotasking
[10:55] The connection between gardening and mindfulness
[12:55] 9 therapeutic garden activities for a more joyful gardening experience
[13:01] #1 Turn your garden visits into a self-care reflection moment
[17:08] Where can you find the best tone fertilizers for your indoor and outdoor plants?
[21:09] Engage your 5 senses!
[21:18] #2 Sight (being fully present in the beauty of nature)
[22:53] #3 Smell (enjoy aromas and incorporate them into daily routines)
[24:56] #4 Sound (especially bird songs!)
[26:54] #5 Touch (trace leaf outlines and feel their textures)
[28:38] #6 Taste (try your homegrown produce!)
[29:56] #7 Affirmations (to your plants and yourself)
[33:24] #8 Grow flowers
[35:39] #9 Look for plant/life parallels

Mentioned in our conversation:

Merlin Bird ID
GJWM Episode 186 The History Of Houseplants With Jane Perrone
GJWM 188 The Art Of Aromatic Gardening With Amy Of NYC Aromatica

For a closer look into these therapeutic gardening practices,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Overwatered vs Underwatered Plants, How Much Light Do Indoor Plants Need and More Common Houseplant Problems: Grow Better with Leslie

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Do your plants get enough water and light? These questions are typically asked, and the answer is often "It depends." But this answer is more meaningful than you might think, which will be explained in today's episode of our new series, "Grow Better," featuring Leslie Halleck. As a certified horticulturist with extensive experience in plant care, Leslie is here to share her insights on the subject of overwatering and underwatering, offer valuable insights into the optimal light requirements for plants, and explore the common challenges plants encounter.

In this episode, we learn:

[07:04] Who is Leslie Halleck and what is her background in plant care?
[08:24] How has social media impacted plant parenthood and gardening? (aka green guilt)
[10:32] Why losing plants is normal even for horticulturalists
[12:06] Why do plants need time to adapt when moving from a greenhouse to our homes?
[16:51] How are watering and light related in plant care?
[20:39] Where can you find stylish grow lights with full spectrum warm white light?
[25:04] How relative humidity affects houseplants
[27:24] Other key challenges that gardeners face with outdoor plants
[31:52] How can you tell if a plant is dying?
[38:10] How does excessive light affect plants? What is phytotoxicity?
[41:18] Other effects of low light on plants
[41:54] Signs and symptoms of overwatering and underwatering in plants
[48:10] What causes leaf drop?
[51:35] What are the key indicators and signs of nutrient deficiency in both houseplants and garden plants
[57:06] How can you distinguish between healthy and unhealthy yellow or pink foliage on plants like Cissus discolor that lack green leaves?
[01:00:05] Why it is important to know the plant's environment and care habits
[01:03:03] When is the right time to dispose of a plant?
[01:10:30] Where can you find Leslie Halleck on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For an in-depth look on overwatering vs underwatering,

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Follow Leslie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Homesteading for Beginners with Michelle Bruhn and Stephanie Thurow: Best of Growing Joy

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we learn:

[06:43] Stephanie & Michelle’s homesteading journey
[13:08] The challenges of gardening in different regions (know your last frost date)
[16:24] How Stephanie & Michelle’s friendship and shared interests led to their book “Small-Scale Homesteading”
[17:55] Where can you find a range of cold-tolerant crops for your fall and winter gardens?
[19:58] Where can you find the perfect wind chimes to add a touch of beauty and mindfulness to your surroundings?
[17:51] What is the role of community in their homesteading journeys?
[24:32] What is the difference between gardening and homesteading?
[26:40] What inspired Michelle and Stephanie’s move from gardening to homesteading
[30:50] Tips for transitioning from gardening to homesteading
[40:21] Michelle on seed starting
[43:36] What are the easiest seeds to save?
[44:59] How can you preserve your homegrown food?
[46:45] Fermentation vs pickling
[48:36] What is water bath canning?
[51:21] Things you should know about raising chickens!
[01:01:13] Further homesteading stories and experiences from Michelle & Stephanie

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Stephanie Thurow & Michelle Bruhn Small-Scale Homesteading: A Sustainable Guide to Gardening, Keeping Chickens, Maple Sugaring, Preserving the Harvest, and More
Can It & Ferment It: More Than 75 Satisfying Small-Batch Canning and Fermentation Recipes for the Whole Year
WECK Home Preserving: Made-from-Scratch Recipes for Water-Bath Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and More
WECK Small-Batch Preserving: Year-Round Recipes for Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and MoreFood Preservation Cookbooks by Stephanie Thurow:
Chicken Pens at Tractor Supply Co.

For honest tips and recommendations on raising your own chickens,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Growing your own food does not have to be difficult! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Stephanie:

Follow Michelle:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The History of Flowers with Noel Kingsbury

Tue, 4 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Flowers have totally mesmerized people for ages with their awesome colors, shapes, and smells. We're totally obsessed with them, and they've been a huge part of our cultures, traditions, and personal bonds for as long as we can remember. In this episode, we're going to talk about the history of flowers with a celebrated garden writer, Noel Kingsbury. We'll explore the history and meanings behind flowers, how they've evolved alongside pollinators, and the special relationships we have with these amazing plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:22] When did Noel’s passion for plants and flowers start?
[07:41] Noel shares his earliest plant memory
[08:47] The inspiration behind Noel's book “The Story of Flowers”?
[11:19] What is cultivation and how has it changed throughout the centuries?
[12:43] Similarities and differences observed in the various human civilizations
[15:37] Difference between high and low culture in plant profiles
[16:32] Why is dahlia considered a low-brow flower in old British history?
[18:36] Where can you find handcrafted wind chimes perfect for wedding and housewarming gifts?
[20:13] Where can you find all your potting mix, planting soil, and fertilizer needs for gardening?
[22:18] Are orchids considered high-class flowers?
[23:54] What is the significance of flowers' affordability and accessibility throughout history?
[25:30] Symbolism of the Iris flower in different cultures and civilizations
[28:16] How flowers create a sense of identification and long-term connections with people
[31:08] Why flowers and pollinators are in a lockstep co-evolutionary relationship.
[33:47] What fact surprised Noel the most in his research about flowers?
[36:17] Interesting facts about common flowers found in your garden
[39:15] What brought Noel to Portugal?
[39:29] Opium poppies have a complicated history with varying legalities
[40:48] What lotus flowers symbolize
[42:06] What is Noel’s favorite flower?
[43:25] Where can you find Noel on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Noel Kingsbury The Story of Flowers: And How They Changed the Way We Live
Thursday Garden Chat for Garden Masterclass
Book by Jane Perrone Legends of the Leaf

For a full list of flowers and their symbolism,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Grow an abundance of flowers with the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Noel:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

War Gardens, Victory Gardens or Pandemic Gardens: The History Behind Why People Grow Plants in Hard Times

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Gardening is already a popular hobby, but the pandemic has revived an interest in growing plants. Many of us plant parents turned to gardening to keep busy, improve our mental health, and even grow food as we were forced to spend more time at home. Similar to this occurrence is the Victory Gardens of the past. In this episode, Maggie Stuckey joins us to review the history of Victory Gardens and their surprising role in society throughout the last hundred years. We also explore why people are so drawn to plants in tough times!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] War Gardens, Victory Gardens, or Pandemic Gardens
[05:30] Maggie shares an excerpt from her book about gardening as a manifestation of hope
[08:07] Growing up in rural South Carolina where farming and vegetable gardens were prominent
[10:46] How Maggie’s book on container gardening became a go-to gardening resource, challenging the belief that vegetables couldn't be grown in containers
[13:46] Drawing parallels between the current gardening movement and past Victory Gardens
[14:13] Where can you find trusted products for gardening, such as potting mix, garden soil, and fertilizer?
[16:18] Where can you listen to enchanting wind chimes and choose from various colors, sizes, and sounds?
[20:47] What is the history of Victory gardens?
[26:45] Community gardens during World War II in Boston, Washington, D.C., and Minneapolis
[27:50] The concept and history behind community gardens
[29:40] What motivates people to start gardens during challenging times like war, pandemics, or personal struggles?
[33:22] The therapeutic nature of gardening and how it simplifies life and reconnects people with nature
[36:36] The importance of in-person human interactions and actions
[37:18] What are common mistakes made by new gardeners and why do they occur?
[44:16] Why did Maggie include edible flowers in her book?
[47:40] What should beginner gardeners grow in three containers for a successful first garden experience?
[50:26] Heartwarming stories in Maggie's book and the one that warmed her heart the most
[53:55] Where can you find Maggie’s book, The Container Victory Garden: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Groceries?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Maggie's recommendations on best container gardening plants,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Set your garden up for success with the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Maggie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Overcome Burnout Through The Healing Power of Nature

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

How do you handle burnout? We have all asked that question at some point because modern society has a lot of demands, and it's become too easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if there was a free and accessible tool that could help you turn towards yourself again, away from overstimulation and crazy schedules? In this episode, I will share with you my own experience with deep depression and severe burnout, and how I found healing through making major life shifts centered around spending more time in and with nature.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:24] Maria shares her experience with depression and severe burnout over the past three years
[01:54] Plants are a great way to reconnect with a part of ourselves that modern society ignores
[10:24] How is burnout defined?
[12:27] How do you recover from burnout?
[13:25] What is Attention Restoration Theory?
[14:23] First type of attention: Directed Attention
[14:37] Second type of attention: Involuntary Attention (aka fascination)
[16:10] Involuntary attention practices to help you find balance in life
[16:14] Look at a plant before you look at your screen
[18:00] Thank the trees
[18:36] Pair it with gratitude
[19:25] Ritualize engaging with nature
[22:54] Go outside
[23:02] Forest bathing and its benefits
[25:51] Mental health walks
[26:44] Get your bare feet on the earth (aka grounding/earthing)
[28:36] Practice mindfulness through plant care
[30:53] Lean into scent
[33:24] Two different types of plants for healing purposes
[33:38] Slow burn plants
[35:57] Quick win plants
[38:23] Pruning back to inspire growth

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a detailed list of Maria's recommended practices,

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Mushroom Miniseries: How to Grow Mushrooms Indoors

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Do you want to learn how to grow mushrooms at home? In the third episode of our Mushroom Mini-series, Billy and I share how you can enjoy the process of growing mushrooms indoors. Our relationship as co-hosts, and more importantly, as life partners, has made this journey more delightful. We enjoy our time together as self-proclaimed “mushroom farmers,” learning and growing together. In this episode, we are grateful to welcome back Louis from North Spore who shares his mushroom expertise and beginner-friendly tips!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:42] What is it like being a mushroom farmer?
[06:40] Multiple harvests from the grow kits through proper moisture management
[08:51] Debunking magic mushroom misconceptions
[2:44] Billy and Maria’s positive experiences with Lion's mane mushroom
[14:34] How do you grow mushrooms indoors?
[14:44] #1 Spray & Grow Kits (The perfect beginner species!)
[18:02] #2 Fruiting Blocks
[19:17] Where can you get premium quality growlights?
[21:05] Where can you find delightful wind chimes that make for a perfect gift choice?
[22:23] #3 Martha Tents (aka North Spore’s Boom Room)
[25:36] How do you avoid mold with a Martha tent?
[28:18] What's the ideal humidity level on the humidistat for the fruiting blocks?
[30:39] What comprises a fruiting block and what goes into making it?
[32:17] How do you distinguish spawns versus spores?
[37:13] How do you pasteurize something?
[37:58] What would be three great beginner mushrooms to start in a grow tent?
[40:09] Economics of mushroom cultivation
[42:26] Can a Martha tent enable a wider range of mushroom growth compared to a mono tub?
[43:21] #3 Mono tub
[50:22] What are the two substrates of Nameko mushrooms?
[54:23] Who is North Spore?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a list of beginner-friendly indoor mushrooms,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow North Spore:

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check out the Bad Seeds Podcast!

Thu, 8 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Introducing the Bad Seeds Podcast, by our dear friend, Summer Rayne Oakes!

Bad Seeds is a new podcast from School of Humans and iHeart Podcasts that investigates a growing area of crime that you might have never heard of: plant crime. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic, plant crime has been on the rise. From timber poaching in Zambia to cactus smuggling in the US' national parks, Bad Seeds explores a variety of cases where people have stolen plants - having huge repercussions on our environment and in turn...us.

All of Bad Seeds' episodes are out now. You can listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Head over to subscribe and binge!

iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-bad-seeds-112229352/

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bad-seeds/id1680791653

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1MsbtuahueZqPiGa5SA9Yn

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Stop Killing Succulents: Succulent Care and Propagation Guide

Tue, 6 Jun 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Succulents are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are perfect for us busy plant parents. They're also total badasses. However, they can be quite tricky to care for if you don't know what you're doing. In this episode, I have invited my “succy” friend Andrea from Justsuccit.com to shed some light on the facts and fiction surrounding succulent care!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:17] Why succulents can mislead and frustrate people
[07:34] How did Andrea become the expert succulent plant lady she is
[08:48] Fascinating geometry of echeveria and other rosette-type succulents
[11:25] How Andrea’s multifaceted business operates
[12:13] Carefully tending to succulents is important due to their specific care needs
[14:09] 3 reasons why you’re killing your succulents
[14:51] Where can you find a fast-draining potting mix for succulents, cacti, and citrus plants?
[17:01] Where can you pre-order garlic to grow your own bulbs and scapes?
[19:26] Why you should try succulents
[19:59] Are lithops considered succulents?
[22:44] How do you stop killing your succulents? (aka succulent care!)
[23:27] #1 Before watering, check the soil
[25:09] Adaptations in succulent leaves that are affected by watering
[26:36] #2 Place your succulents in direct sunlight
[31:23] #3 Beware when your succulents start stretching
[33:46] #4 Place your succulents in fast-draining soil
[35:56] #5 Keeping airflow in check
[38:00] Few ways to propagate your succulent
[38:09] #1 Leaf propagation
[41:13] #2 Stem propagation
[44:20] What are the best practices for removing a fully withered leaf?
[44:44] Plant life parallel: a poetic act of a mother plant nourishing offspring
[48:17] How can you “embrace the succ” and ensure you and your succulent thrive?
[50:54] Most powerful lesson Andrea learned from her succulents

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Andrea's recommended succ care,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Make sure your succulents have the right soil and nutrients! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Territorial Seed Company

Grow your own garlic! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow Andrea and JustSuccIt:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Check out the Therapeutic Horticulture Summer Intensive at the NYBG!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Power of Therapeutic Horticulture

Tue, 30 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever thought about the healing power of plants beyond just their aesthetic appeal? As plant parents, we know how much fun it is to take care of our plants, but did you know that therapeutic horticulture is a practice being used in hospitals, retirement homes, and even correctional facilities? Today, we're exploring the concept of therapeutic horticulture with the guidance of expert teacher Hilda Krus, who has been a horticultural therapist for over two decades, working with inmates at Rikers Island, New York's largest jail. Let’s dive in!

In this episode, we learn:

[08:16] How Hilda Krus became a therapeutic horticulture expert
[17:06] What is AHDA?
[21:07] Is horticultural therapy the same as therapeutic horticulture?
[24:34] Need a plant-based meal delivery system that eases bloat and boosts energy?
[27:41] How creating a comfortable and easy space in a garden requires intentional work
[31:53] What lessons did Hilda learn after working at Rikers Island for 20 years?
[42:15] How can horticultural therapy programs get government funding?
[49:09] Hilda describes her routine and a student's typical day at Rikers
[51:21] What is the layout of the garden at Rikers Island?
[53:46] How is the food they grow on-site at Rikers Island being used?
[56:26] Did any of Hilda's students choose to work in horticulture after finishing her class?
[59:14] Are you looking to create a spa-like ambiance in your home with beautiful chimes?
[01:01:37] Inspiring stories in Rikers' therapeutic horticultural program
[01:03:56] What is the Horticultural Society of New York?
[01:11:03] What classes does Hilda teach at NYBG?
[01:12:13] Hilda’s recommended horticultural books!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Soil Science I
Introduction to Plant Science
The Science of Tree Communication
Introduction to Horticultural Therapy
Therapeutic Horticulture Certificate Program
Growing Joy Episode 37: Horticultural Therapy
American Horticultural Therapy Association
Horticultural Society of New York
Book by Sue Stuart-Smith The Well-Gardened Mind
Book by Rebecca L. Haller, Christine L. Capra Horticultural Therapy Methods

For more insights on therapeutic horticulture,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Sakara

Make eating healthier easier with science-backed, plant-rich nutrition programs and wellness essentials right to your door! Sakara provides ready-to-eat meals that are nutritionally designed to deliver results — from weight management and eased bloat, to boosted energy and clearer skin. Enjoy delicious meals that have a perfect balance of plants,protein and fats, while also taking control of your physical health.

Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow the Horticultural Society:

Hilda’s LinkedIn

Twitter

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Companion Planting Basics with the Garden Managers of The Lodge at Woodloch

Tue, 23 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that plants can also be friends? If you’ve followed me on Instagram this year, you will know about the love affair I am having at The Lodge at Woodloch, a luxury resort and spa, about an hour from where I live. A very interesting aspect of the Lodge at Woodloch is the Blackmore Farm, their regenerative organic farm that grew 9500 lbs of produce for the Lodge’s Restaurant last year! And it is run by only two guys, Sam and Derrick, whom I’ve invited to share their passion for soil biology and sustainable gardening… and to spill all the beans (pun intended) on their companion planting secrets!

In this episode, we learn:

[08:09] How The Lodge at Woodloch’s farm developed over the years
[12:20] What is the significance and meaning of companion planting?
[13:10] The "fruit, root, leaf, aromatic herb, and flower" formula for companion planting
[14:05] The relationship between plant taste and companion planting
[14:46] Borage, Borage, Borage!
[16:46] Where can you get a huge selection of flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruits this winter?
[18:15] Philosophy behind The Lodge’s motto and how it can be applied to small-scale gardens
[26:04] How did Sam and Derrick begin their journey into gardening without formal degrees in agriculture?
[28:59] Gardening's growing popularity and valuable lessons from experienced gardeners
[30:03] Benefits of using borage as a trap crop in the garden
[34:26] Why it’s important to harvest companion plants as they mature
[37:01] How companion planting helps you to stay on top of pests and diseases
[38:42] When planting potatoes, are you supposed to remove the roots along with the greens of shallow-rooted greens?
[39:12] What to do if the roots of the greens and onions become intertwined
[39:21] Is it harmful to remove roots from the soil?
[42:18] How often does The Lodge use natural pesticides?
[45:10] Direct sow or pot-start: which is best for planting established seedlings?
[46:43] What should you plant withA annual flowers like zinnias or sunflowers?
[49:36] What’s a good companion plant for roses?
[52:08] Best way to plant potato leeks
[53:43] What does “blanching” mean?
[55:26] A few tips for succession planning
[59:32] Where can you find Sam and Derrick work on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For Sam and Derrick's fave companion planting combos,

read the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Don't let the winter blues stop you from gardening! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow The Lodge at Woodloch:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mini Episode: 5 Ways to Use Scented Plants to Reduce Stress and Increase Joy

Fri, 19 May 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, we are changing things up. We're taking a detour from our typical long-form content to introduce a new format — mini-episodes — taken from our rich conversations. These episodes are meant to be your bite-sized lessons about how to use nature to bring joy into your life. And in this first episode, inspired by our recent interview on aromatic gardening, we’re going to talk about 5 practical steps to incorporate scent into our daily routines.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:26] What these mini-episodes are about
[01:18] Why smell is important for memory and stress relief
[02:39] #1 Going for a restorative post-rain walk
[03:21] #2 Utilizing essential oils
[03:59] Different ways to diffuse essential oils
[04:43] Some essential oils and plants you can use!
[06:04] #3 Growing scented plants (if you’re not into oils)
[08:06] #4 Interplanting aromatic plants with edible plants
[08:39] #5 Making yourself a mini bouquet

Check out the 5 tips in detail,

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Art of Aromatic Gardening with Amy of NYC Aromatica

Tue, 16 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Do you love the smell of fresh flowers or the aroma that wafts through your home as you cook with herbs? Smell might not be the first thing we think of when it comes to gardening, but it's actually a super powerful way to bring joy to our gardens! In fact, our sense of smell has strong associations with our long-term memories and emotions. Today, we're chatting with my friend Amy Anthony, a certified clinical aromatherapist and aromatic gardener, who will share her expertise on how aromatic gardening can cultivate joy, calm, and memories through scent.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:08] How Amy's passion for plants led to her expertise in aromatherapy
[06:46] How the process of obtaining an aromatherapy certification works
[09:33] How scents can trigger memories through the olfactory system
[14:28] Is the connection between the olfactory system and the brain due to the nose's proximity?
[16:57] Where can you find high-quality potting mix and fertilizer for your garden?
[19:06] Are you searching for personalized and premium wind chimes for Mother's Day?
[22:37] What is aromatic gardening and which plants are its focus?
[24:54] Various plants that repel pests or deer
[26:26] Can you easily grow aromatic plants, distill their oil, and use it at home?
[27:41] Why you should add aromatic plants to your garden
[30:57] Amy grows aromatic plants to make tea, hydrosols, and tinctures
[34:51] What are the recommended methods for brewing lemon balm tea?
[36:56] What’s your go-to resource for identifying plant diseases, preventing animal damage, and setting up a successful garden?
[37:52] Amy's recommended plants to promote relaxation
[40:09] Which plants are ideal for an afternoon energy boost?
[42:31] Which plants promote connection with oneself or others in the context of aromatherapy or sensuality?
[45:50] What non-culinary herbs should you try growing?
[49:20] Which staple plant is recommended for aromatic gardening?
[53:04] Where can you find Amy on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Book by Dr. Qing Li Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness
Poem by Twyla M. Hansen The Other Woman
NYC Aromatica Plant Talks
NYC Aromatica Online Classes

For a list of herbs, flowers, and their benefits,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Make sure your aromatic herbs and plants are getting the right nutrients! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by Susan Mulvihill

This gardening season, arm yourself with The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by veggie-growing guru Susan Mulvihill of YouTube Susans in the Garden!This book will become your go-to resource for all natural pesticide free solutions and troubleshooting for the gardening woes that will inevitably arise in your garden. The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook will help you properly identify over 28 bacterial and fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and potato scab, limit damage from plant eating animals and most importantly, it'll help you set your garden up for success to actually prevent these problems from ever happening.

Check out The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Amy:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Check out the Decorating Tips and Tricks Podcast!

Thu, 11 May 2023 10:25:00 +0000

Did you love this weeks episode with Kelly from Decorating Tips and Tricks on Interior Design Trends for your Garden? If so, listen to her trailer, and go check out the Decorating Tips and Tricks Podcast and subscribe!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

9 Interior Design Tips to Apply to Your Garden

Tue, 9 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Interior design principles are not limited to our indoor spaces! For us plant parents, interior design and gardening may initially appear as separate domains, but there are numerous similarities between the two—so much so that the principles of one can be applied to the other. In this episode, we'll learn from Kelly Wilkniss of Decorating Tips and Tricks podcast as she shares nine valuable interior design tips that can be applied to transform your garden into a stunning, cohesive, and joyful space.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:50] How has Kelly’s gardening passion intersected with her interior design career?
[07:16] What inspired Kelly to do an all-white garden
[08:45] What is Kelly’s interior design style?
[10:30] Kelly’s opinion on modernizing antiques
[12:01] How did she transition from being a lawyer to an interior designer?
[14:08] Where can you find stylish lights for upgrading indoor plant environments?
[16:04] Where to find a personalized Mother's Day gift that includes handcrafted wind chimes
[20:31] Tip #1 Take a photo of interior and exterior spaces (it promotes a cohesive design flow!)
[21:56] Tip #2 Limit your color palette
[25:18] Tip #3 Create a flow
[33:49] A must-have book for outdoor living area design ideas with mix-and-match suggestions and before-and-after pictures
[35:10] Tip #4 Plant in odd numbers
[37:55] Tip #5 Layering!
[40:44] Tip #6 Balance and scale
[44:26] Tip #7 Visual noise
[48:48] Tip #8 The touch of black
[52:08] Tip #9 Not having ugly storage
[01:00:13] Where can you find Kelly on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 145 Interior Design Trends and Houseplants With Betsy From Affordable Interior Design
Wayfair sheds
Growing Joy Episode 180 Minimalism and Plants With Stephanie of Sustainable Minimalist

For all of Kelly's design tips and notes,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Field Guide to Outside Style: Design and Plant Your Perfect Outdoor Space by Ryan McEnaney

Make your lawn look restorative, stylish, and cohesive, with Ryan McKenney's new book Field Guide to Outside Style. Ryan walks you through perzonalizing your outdoor living space with the right plants, furnishings, and other design elements. Did we mention there are a lot of options, case studies, and before and after pictures to help you really digest this concept?

Check out Field Guide to Outside Style at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Kelly:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The History of Houseplants with Jane Perrone

Tue, 2 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Where did our houseplants come from and what’s the history behind them? From Babylonian gardens to the healing power of herbs, houseplants have been used for centuries to cultivate joy in our lives. In this episode, I spoke with Jane Perrone, OG planty podcaster and author of the newly released Legends of the Leaf. Jane has spent years researching and collecting stories, lore, and surprises about our beloved house plants, and is here to enlighten us about their history. Let’s learn all about the monstera, the spider plants, and more that have been in homes for generations!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:26] Meet Jane Perrone and learn about her latest book Legends of the Leaf
[11:38] Insight into Jane's book and its structure
[14:13] What was Jane’s research process in writing her book?
[16:47] Was aloe vera part of Cleopatra's beauty routine?
[18:19] What is the impact of plants on air quality?
[20:13] Where can you find quality indoor and outdoor gardening products?
[22:19] Where can you get flower and vegetable transplants to create an effortless garden?
[24:13] What is the cultural significance of the Aspidistra plant throughout history?
[28:37] How did Aspidistra become a popular houseplant?
[30:32] History of the spider plant and its cultural significance
[34:23] Are you looking for a book to start your first container garden?
[36:23] What is Colonial botany and why was it an important field of study?
[39:37] Dark history of Dieffenbachia
[46:23] History of the Boston fern and why it became popular
[51:40] Why is the monstera plant a must-have for any plant lover?
[54:48] Who worked on the illustrations for Jane's book?
[58:07] Where can you purchase Jane's book?
[01:05:46] Where can you find Jane Perrone on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Jane Perrone’s book Legends of the Leaf
D.G. Hessayon’s book The House Plant Expert
Biodiversity Heritage Library
George Orwell’s book Keep the Aspidistra Flying
Gracie Fields’ song The Biggest Aspidistra In The World
Netflix film Enola Holmes
German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
American Sitcom Will & Grace
Noel Kingsbury’s book The Story of Flowers

For a listicle of our favorite houseplants and their history,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Gardening is made easier with flower and vegetable transplants! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Make sure your houseplants are getting the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

The First Time Gardener: Container Gardening by Pam Farley

Don't let limited space and gardening anxieties hold you back from growing your own food. Start your very first garden in containers, the easy and affordable way, with the help of Pam Farley's The First Time Gardener: Container Gardening. Learn the basics and requirements of container gardening such as size, water, fertilizer, location, and more with this comprehensive and fully-illustrated book.

Check out Container Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.

Follow Jane:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grow Your Own Salad: How to Grow Lettuce from Seed to Harvest

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that the freshest and most delicious lettuce comes from growing them yourself? At home, Billy and I haven't bought a plastic box of lettuce in months and enjoy fresh salad almost daily! We've been growing lettuce hydroponically indoors and are now gearing up to start our outdoor lettuce garden. In this episode, we're joined by Nicole Burke from Gardenary, who shares her expertise on growing lettuce and how you can start your own lettuce garden, even if you don't have a lot of space or experience! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a houseplant parent looking to expand your plant collection, this episode has something for everyone.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:03] Maria shares indoor hydroponic lettuce growth and outdoor lettuce garden prep.
[06:02] Why lettuce is ideal for first-time food-growing houseplant parents.
[06:53] What is Gardenary all about?
[08:23] How Nicole makes beautiful raised-bed gardens
[14:19] Where are 98% of the United States lettuces grown?
[17:01] What materials are needed for lettuce?
[20:47] Where can you find a wide array of quality lettuce seeds and seed mixes?
[23:27] Where to get a potting mix, soil, fertilizer, or compost for your garden beds/containers?
[25:15] What lettuce does Nicole recommend for beginners?
[24:34] Lettuce Category #1: Loose leaf
[29:15] Lettuce Category #2: Head lettuce
[31:09] Is Nicole indoor-starting or direct-sowing lettuce?
[32:32] How do you calculate when it's time to start direct sowing?
[35:55] What is the process of growing lettuce from seed?
[36:14] Process #1: If you have limited space
[40:40] Where to find a nutrition program for weight management, more energy, and clear skin?
[42:55] Process #2: If you live in an apartment
[46:01] What are Nicole’s tips for harvesting?
[47:53] What mistakes do people commonly make in growing lettuce?
[49:58] How to eat Swiss chard
[52:23] Have you heard of Nicole’s newest book Kitchen Garden Revival?
[57:45] Where can you follow Nicole?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Growing Joy Episode 120 Designing and Planning My Garden // Coaching With Nicole of Gardenary
Ivette Soler’s book The Edible Front Yard: The Mow-Less, Grow-More Plan for a Beautiful, Bountiful Garden
Hydroponic planter
Nicole Burke’s book Kitchen Garden Revival
Nicole’s Burke’s book Leaves, Roots & Fruit
Rocky Top Mix Salad Blend
Territorial Seed Company Spring Mixes
Martha Stewart's book Vegetables: Inspired Recipes and Tips for Choosing, Cooking, and Enjoying the Freshest Seasonal Flavors: A Cookbook
10 Years, 4 Cities, 8 Gardens-Nicole Burke's Kitchen Garden Journey

For a complete list of lettuce types, tips, and tricks,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Growing your own salad is made easier with a wide variety of lettuce seeds and seed mixes! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Gardening is less complicated when you have the right products on hand! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Sakara

Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.

Follow Nicole:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Mushroom Miniseries: How to Grow Functional Mushrooms in Your Garden

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What if you could grow functional mushrooms next to your tomato plants? In this episode 2 of the Mushroom Miniseries, Billy and I continue our exploration of the world of mushrooms in partnership with North Spore and their expert mycologist, Louis Giller. Today's episode focuses on growing mushrooms in your garden and covers topics such as integrating mushrooms into a traditional garden and the benefits of cultivating mushrooms alongside your plant babies!

Enjoy an exclusive 10% off your mushrooms,

use code 'GROWINGJOY' at northspore.com!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:35] Benefits of Lion's Mane mushroom supplements for improved focus and energy
[09:15] Why should you grow mushrooms in your garden?
[10:45] Specific vocabulary in mushroom cultivation
[12:43] Is mushroom DNA diverse or uniform across different areas?
[15:30] Why you can't simply grow any mushrooms in soil alone
[17:15] Are mushrooms annuals or perennials?
[20:14] Where can you find full spectrum plant lights to bring the beauty of outdoors inside this April?
[22:16] Where can you find a healthy meal delivery program?
[24:52] What protections exist for preventing other mushroom species from colonizing a bed of ripe food and confusing the farmer?
[26:29] Can you harvest mushrooms immediately after inoculating your garden beds?
[27:35] What mushrooms are best for beginners to grow in the garden?
[29:30] Do you need a lot of space to grow a good harvest?
[30:29] Do worms compete or work with mycorrhizal?
[32:25] What materials do you need for growing mushrooms in your garden?
[34:44] Where can you find a wind chime that would make the perfect gift these holidays?
[36:21] How can you grow mushrooms in your mulch?
[41:04] Does a denser, ground-level plant provide better shade for the mushrooms??
[44:00] Is there a general rule for spacing the insertion points when inoculating a bale of hay?
[44:49] How do mycorrhizal networks and mold coexist in nature, particularly in damp and dark environments?
[48:09] How to create a mushroom container for small gardening spaces
[52:49] What are the required maintenance tasks for growing mushrooms during the season?
[57:03] What is the difference between cutting and pulling mushrooms during harvesting?
[58:23] Best beginner mushroom varieties that are resilient to temperature and humidity changes
[59:40] Different mushrooms that you can grow in different garden zones or different climates
[01:00:56] What is the process of inoculating logs for growing mushrooms?
[01:03:48] What's the purpose of wax capping your mushrooms?
[01:05:29] Can mushroom inoculation be done before or after the frost date?
[01:10:12] Where can you find mushroom spawns and learn more about mushroom growing?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a complete checklist of mushroom gardening necessities,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

Sakara

Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow North Spore:

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

check our the full show notes and blog here!

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Spring Houseplant Care

Tue, 4 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to give your house plants the love and care they deserve this spring? It's that time of year again where we shed our winter blues and embrace the sunshine and fresh air of a new season. And what better way to welcome the change than by spring cleaning for your plant babies? In this episode, we've got you covered with a checklist of things to do to set your plants up for success this season, while also cultivating joy and mindfulness in the process!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:42] What is spring cleaning for your houseplants
[03:45] How the health of your plants can reflect your mental state
[04:00] Spring Houseplant Care Checklist
[04:09] 1. Understanding how the change in daylight affects plant care
[05:09] 1.a. How to adjust watering frequency during spring
[08:10] 1.b. More light equals more photosynthesis (Ensure your plants are getting enough light!)
[10:18] 2. Mind your temperature (Keep your plants in a comfortable environment!)
[11:20] 3. Spring cleaning!
[13:10] 3.a. Prune brown and yellow leaves to promote growth
[16:45] 3.b. Why you need to wipe your leaves
[19:30] Where can you get plant-rich meals delivered to your door?
[22:22] The best place to get safe and easy-to-use gardening products for your houseplants
[24:17] 4. Refresh soil if necessary
[25:45] 4.a. Repot or pot up your plants
[29:41] 5. Fertilize if your plant is growing
[31:23] 6. Consider the pros and cons of moving plants outside in the spring
[36:06] 7. Why it is important to assess your plant collection
[38:18] How tending to your plants can reveal interesting parallels between them and your life

Mentioned in our conversation:

For the full houseplant spring cleaning checklist,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Sakara

Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.

Espoma Organic

Spring cleaning is less complicated when you have the right products on hand! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Top Gardening Mistakes to Avoid in your 2023 Garden with Joe Lamp'l

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to take your gardening skills to the next level and avoid common pitfalls? Spring is finally here, and it's time to get ready for gardening season! But before you start planting, it's important to know what not to do in your garden. That's why we've brought back Joe Lamp'l of joegardener.com to share his expertise on common gardening mistakes and how to avoid them. From beginners to seasoned gardeners, there's something for everyone in this fun and informative discussion!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:41] Why you shouldn’t fear mistakes when starting a garden!
[06:05] How gardening mistakes can lead to unexpected positive results and help you improve
[08:00] What is the guideline for seed sowing density in intense planting method?
[08:43] How often should you check on your seedlings to prevent legginess and promote growth?
[10:15] Why seedlings need special care to grow properly
[11:01] What are the biggest gardening mistakes?
[12:23] #1 Forgetting to plan!
[15:15] What is the definition of garden planning and how should you do it?
[16:13] What is necessary for successful gardening planning?
[17:39] Plan your balcony garden with a diagram and use garden planners to organize your planting
[20:00] How did Joe feel about starting gardening with two rose bushes?
[21:07] What's the order for planning tasks (daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly) when planting for spring, summer, and fall?
[24:00] Where can you find container varieties of plants specifically bred for limited-space gardening?
[27:35] #2 Overdoing it!
[28:54] Why does gardening make us feel optimistic and ambitious?
[32:34] #3 Improper spacing!
[35:27] Why are plants forgiving?
[36:07] #4 Leaving your soil bare!
[38:50] How can one mitigate the negative consequences of bare soil?
[40:31] Joe’s favorite type of mulch!
[42:37] #5 Planting too early or too late! Oopsies!
[44:20] How fix the problem if you started gardening either too early or too late?
[47:23] Where can you find a personalized gift with a variety of colors, sizes, and sounds available?
[49:35] List of garden hurdles you might face!
[49:34] #1 What if you have an apartment?
[50:38] #2 What should you do if you have a garden with space but has low light or shade?
[51:50] What if you don’t have a budget for gardening?
[54:55] #3 What if you’re overwhelmed?
[56:13] How to avoid weed overwhelm
[59:18] What is Joe’s new course Organic Vegetable Gardening all about?
[01:03:20] Joe explains what a single module in the OVG course would entail
[01:06:55] The OVG course is on sale for $100 less during its launch week!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Territorial Seed Company’s Garden Planners
Grow Bag Gardening
Joe’s Books
Joe’s newest course Organic Vegetable Gardening

For a list of Joe's gardening tips and tricks,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

For this garden season, Territorial Seed Company is making sure no one is left behind. Grow plants that have been tested and bred specifically for container gardening, so you can maximize your limited space. Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Wind River Chimes

Bring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Joe:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minimalism and Plants with Stephanie of Sustainable Minimalist

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

As plant parents, we love our green babies, but sometimes we can get carried away with our collections. With life returning to normal, we might feel like it's time to simplify our spaces and make room for new experiences. Today's episode is all about embracing the joy of living with less. We're joined by Stephanie, the host of the Sustainable Minimalism podcast, to talk about how the principles of minimalism can bring positivity and happiness into our plant parenthood journeys. So get ready to enjoy some uplifting conversation on how to create a healthy and balanced plant collection!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:04] Maria’s recent trip to Florida and her experience with outdoor plants
[05:58] How did Stephanie become a sustainable minimalist and what journey did she take to get there?
[08:57] How can regret and shame be used as a tool for positive change?
[10:23] Do you throw your stuff away, give it away, or return it?
[13:01] Why you should not let the “investment shame” hold you back from letting go of items that no longer serve you
[15:15] Where to get a variety of edible flowers that can add beauty to your garden and unique flavors to your dishes
[17:41] Are there any hidden signs of overwhelm people should watch out for when deciding to go minimalist?
[21:13] What tools can you use to resist the urge to buy something new when trying to declutter?
[25:01] Books and resources Stephanie recommends for those interested in minimalism!
[26:33] What are the first steps you should take toward decluttering?
[31:51] How wind chimes can be a beneficial addition to a mindfulness practice
[34:28] Where can you find high-quality, safe, and eco-friendly indoor and outdoor gardening products?
[36:13] Stephanie’s top minimalist takeaways that could inspire anyone interested in minimalism, and how it could apply to your plant collection
[36:56] #1 Using cost per use as a metric!
[38:19] #2 Space is more valuable than your belongings!
[38:51] #3 Memories do not reside in items!
[39:47] #4 Multiples of an item keep us cluttered!
[42:04] How do you know if it's time to celebrate getting a new plant and be more intentional about what you buy?
[43:07] #5 Pair your next purchase with something wonderful going on in your life!
[45:29] Follow Stephanie and Sustainable Minimalist!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a detailed list of tips and tools for your minimalism journey,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

For this garden season, Territorial Seed Company is telling you: eat your flowers! Edible flowers are not only beautiful, but they are also good for your body, and this company has your back. Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Follow Stephanie:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Living Soil, Planttok and Creativity Through Plants with Dirty Roots Berlin

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered about the fascinating world of soil biology and the joy of creativity through plants? In this episode, we're joined by Adam from @dirty_roots_berlin to learn all about the importance of living soil, growing your own soil, and using nature to combat nature. Plus, we'll dive into how TikTok offers a refreshing and diverse platform for sharing your love for plants and exploring your unique personality! We'll also discuss how plants can help us reconnect with our sense of awe and wonder and inspire us to embrace creativity and curiosity in unexpected ways. So get ready to join us for an inspiring and enlightening discussion about all things green!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:05] How caring for plants helps us reconnect with our inner child and inner student
[02:49] TikTok is teeming with creators sharing their plant expertise!
[05:13] Adam, creator of Dirty Roots Berlin, talks about his unique approach to plant care
[07:24] The best way to take care of plants may not be what you think it is
[08:24] Why Adam likes collecting large plants and those that serve a function (featuring Bee Baths!)
[10:03] What inspired his bee garden and how did the idea of using a 3D printer for set pieces lead to the bee bath design?
[11:50] How Adam's curiosity about plant nutrients and microbes led to an innovative approach to indoor gardening
[16:10] Why did Adam move to Berlin and how has his plant collection changed?
[18:56] Why is it important to have the best bedding for a good night's sleep?
[21:24] On the importance of replicating natural conditions for successful houseplant care
[24:26] What are those “globes” and what makes them different?
[28:17] What is soil biology, or living soil, and how does it contribute to nutrient cycling for plants?
[37:52] How can plants help people reconnect with their inner creativity and awe?
[39:51] Should you sanitize your houseplant scissors?
[43:41] What are some cost-effective ways to propagate plants, and why is failure important?
[46:59] What's different about the plants in Berlin's grocery stores and garden centers?
[48:00] How can grow lights help bring spring and summer indoors year-round?
[49:55] Adam's distinct method of engaging with his audience on TikTok.
[55:32] How do TikTok and Instagram engagement differ?
[58:32] Have you seen Adam’s planty bathroom?
[01:00:09] Who are Adam's favorite TikTok creators?
[01:01:19] Where can you follow Adam on social media?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a deeper dive into soil biology and the fun world of PlantTok,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Cozy Earth

Sleep is foundational for optimum health, like having quality soil for our plants to thrive in, so doesn't it make sense to have bedding that reflects that? Cozy Earth's best-selling bamboo sheet set is temperature-regulating and incredibly soft, and it's made from 100% premium viscose from bamboo which makes it not only feel like silk but actually truly cooling to touch. Plus, they have a lengthy warranty and everything you need for bedding with a variety of luxury pillows, sheets, blankets and even PJS!

Check out cozyearth.com and enjoy an exclusive offer of 35% off site wide when you use the code “GROWINGJOY".

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Follow Adam:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Mushroom Miniseries: Mushrooms 101 Plus the Answer to "What is the Mushroom Growing in My Houseplant!"

Tue, 7 Mar 2023 16:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to dive into the magical world of mushrooms? We're excited to introduce the Mushroom Miniseries, our four-part exploration into the incredible, functional world of mushrooms. From learning about their adaptogenic nature to understanding how they grow, we're here to take you on a journey of discovery! Join me and my husband Billy as we partner with mushroom expert Louis Giller from North Spore to explore everything from how to grow mushrooms outdoors and indoors to discovering the incredible benefits mushrooms can offer our health and wellbeing. Our journey began with a simple walk in a nature preserve, and now we're bringing this passion project to you! Welcome to the wonderful world of mushrooms!

In this episode, we learn:

[00:56] This episode’s special guest!
[02:02] Billy and I started exploring mushrooms after watching ‘Fantastic Fungi’
[05:57] An overview of our four-part mushroom miniseries!
[07:57] Who is Louis Giller and why is he so crazy about mushrooms?
[11:31] Mushroom appreciation!
[12:36] How we started this passion project
[16:42] What is the difference between mushrooms and fungi?
[19:00] Are you looking for a product that improves plant growth while reducing water usage?
[20:40] Where can you get high-quality potato seeds this summer?
[22:50] What differentiates fungi from flora?
[25:21] What is the main purpose of mushrooms?
[27:08] Let’s explore the Wood Wide Web!
[30:54] What determines the fungus' fruiting body structure?
[35:38] Do potting mixes and composts with mycorrhizae help plants absorb water and nutrients faster, and how does this work?
[37:05] What are the little yellow mushrooms growing in your houseplant soils?
[39:36] What are adaptogenic mushrooms?
[40:40] Chaga and Reishi mushrooms: their anti-inflammatory benefits and unknown mechanisms
[43:43] Why mushroom have high-end protein content
[48:56] Ready to prioritize your health by investing in your sleep with the comfiest bedsheets
[51:07] Are the Cordyceps from The Last of Us TV show real?
[53:21] Louis’ best mushroom-related books for beginners!
[57:37] What are the mushrooms that Loius regularly consumes?
[59:31] What are some affordable ways to grow mushrooms at home?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Champs Trade Shows
Paul Stamets’s film Fantastic Fungi
Pizza ai Funghi
Giuliana Furci
FunDiS
HBO TV Series The Last of Us
Netflix TV Series How to Change Your Mind
Tero Isokauppila’s book Healing Mushrooms
Tero Isokauppila’s book Healing Adaptogens
David L. Spahr’s book Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms of New England and Eastern Canada
Merlin Sheldrake’ book Entangled Life
Four Sigmatic

For a more comprehensive look into the world of mushrooms,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Territorial Seed Company

There is nothing like snacking on fresh berries, so why not grow them in your garden? With a wide variety of berries to have in spring, Territorial Seed Company has your back. Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy vegetable plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Cozy Earth

Check out cozyearth.com and enjoy an exclusive offer of 35% off site wide when you use the code “GROWINGJOY".

Follow North Spore:

Louis' LinkedIn

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Evolution of Plant Parenthood with Adam, Becca and Nicole from Potted Together

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Are you always seeking out new plant friends to swap plant care tips and experiences with? This episode is perfect for new plant parents looking to learn from experienced plant lovers or anyone who wants to be part of a community of plant enthusiasts. Join me as I chat with the Potted Together trio Adam, Nicole, and Becca about the evolution of plant parenthood, the different seasons of plant care, and all the topics that only true plant friends would discuss. So grab a cup of tea and listen to the conversation!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:28] Meet my new budgie, Frankie!
[02:53] Plant Friend Hangs
[03:12] Meet Adam, Becca, and Nicole from Potted Together!
[13:30] How their friendship started
[17:55] What made the three decide to start a podcast together
[20:02] Difference and advantage of podcast vs youtube
[22:22] How have Adam's feelings about plants changed over time?
[26:00] Nicole's experience as a plant parent
[27:32] Where can you find Oprah's favorite bed sheets?
[29:45] Safe and high-quality potting mix and fertilizer for your houseplants
[32:27] Becca's plant parenthood journey!
[35:56] Which plants did they regret buying and which ones did they love?
[36:09] Nicole's Philodendron Florida vs glosorium
[37:35] Adam's Hoya carnosa ‘Grey Ghost’ vs Monstera Thai Constellation
[40:05] Becca's variegated alocasia vs Pilea peperomioides
[43:40] Why Maria thinks Rhaphidophora tetrasperma should never go out of style
[44:13] Which plant would you choose if you had to keep only one houseplant and get rid of everything else?
[49:48] Adjusting your plant care approach through the seasons
[54:09] Unforeseen consequences of being a plant parent
[59:51] How the online plant community has evolved and grown, especially during the pandemic
[01:05:15] What changes have they seen in Plant-Tube, and what the trends will be for the community in 2023 and 2024
[01:11:25] What are Adam, Becca and Nicole’s favorite plant memories?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Nicole’s YouTube video My Clean Leaves
Summer Rayne Oakes’ YouTube channel
Hilton Carter’s Instagram
Nick Pileggi’s YouTube channel
Let's Talk Hoya podcast
The Green Plant Instagram
Growing Joy Episode 51: How to Live with a “Crazy Plant Person”
Growing Joy Episode 109: Passive Hydroponics: Pon and LECA
For Good from Wicked YouTube channel
Becca De La Plants
Becca De La Creations

For an in-depth look at the the trio's fave plants and plant 'regrets',

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Cozy Earth

Check out cozyearth.com and enjoy an exclusive offer of 35% off site wide when you use the code “GROWINGJOY".

Follow Potted Together:

Potted Together Podcast

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Landscaping in the Southwest with Tina from The Desert Botanical Garden

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Many of us might think of deserts as barren wastelands, but in reality, the desert is a planty oasis within itself! There are towering saguaros, rosette aloes and agaves, and pollinators flitting between prickly pear flowers. To walk us through this underrated environment, we have a very special guest: Tina Wilson, the Director of Horticulture at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona. We take a closer look at the amazing vegetation that thrives in the desert, and how you can create your own thriving desert landscape. Tina also shares her expertise on how to cultivate a lush desert landscape that is heat-tolerant and drought-resistant, perfect for those living in the Southwest garden zones.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:58] How Tina Wilson became Director of Horticulture at Desert Botanical Garden
[06:13] Tina's duties as Director of Horticulture
[08:04] Unique vegetation in Arizona
[10:02] What is desert landscaping? (and its 3 characteristics!)
[13:08] Gardening zones in the Southwest
[14:06] Key factors to consider when landscaping in the desert
[14:42] Right plant at the right location!
[15:51] What are the plants recommended for desert landscapes?
[16:46] The impact of the southwestern sun on plants
[18:17] Protecting plants from sunburn with shade cloth
[19:16] What is a plant palette?
[21:08] Where to find the best bamboo bedding for health and comfort?
[23:36] Want to grow fresh berries in your own garden?
[25:09] The importance of water conservation and irrigation in the desert
[26:22] Why reduce grass/turf in desert landscapes?
[29:24] The process of renovating a yard: soil profiling and testing
[31:07] Why are native desert plants so well-suited to desert conditions?
[33:34] An overview of desert plants' root systems
[34:17] How a Saguaro cactus stays upright despite its shallow root system
[35:53] Exploring water harvesting techniques
[37:02] What are some of the drought-tolerant plants?
[40:20] Tina's favorite pollinator-attracting plants
[42:04] Maria's experience at the New York Botanical Garden
[42:39] Join Desert Landscape School now for an exceptional learning experience.
[45:26] Is there a season for growing food in the desert?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For an in-depth read on desert plants and water conservation practices,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Cozy Earth

Check out cozyearth.com and enjoy an exclusive offer of 35% off site wide when you use the code “GROWINGJOY".

Territorial Seed Company

It's time to start planning for growing season 2023! If you’re looking for plants for your garden, skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy vegetable plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Follow Desert Botanical Garden:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Seeds are Produced: Behind the Scenes of How Our Seeds are Selected, Grown, Tested and Multiplied with Territorial Seed Company

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

How are seeds produced, manufactured, and make it to our gardens? Every gardener knows the joy of going through seed catalogs and visiting garden centers to select the perfect mix of herbs, vegetables, and flowers to grow in their own garden. But what we might not often consider is the journey of those seeds—from the years-long process of selection, cultivation, and production to the moment when we lovingly plant those tiny specs of potential into the ground. In this episode, Andrew Billing and Kat Barlow from Territorial Seed Company take you on the journey of the seeds from the minds of passionate seed growers to the hands of gardeners!

In this episode, we learn:

[03:33] Are you taking seed packets for granted? (Territorial Seed Company’s purpose!)
[06:08] Who is Andrew Billing?
[06:28] Who is Kat Barlow?
[07:48] Understanding Territorial Seed beyond the advertisements
[08:48] What makes the climate at Territorial Seed and the plants grown and tested there so hardy?
[10:35] What is gardener's itch?
[12:28] Territorial Seed introduces new dahlia varieties
[13:52] Territorial Seed's different approaches to sourcing seeds
[15:42] How does farm sourcing work?
[16:27] How does Territorial Seed preserve seed genetics using seed vaults?
[19:00] How does Territorial Seed decide what seeds to grow in-house?
[21:10] How does trend forecasting play a role in the sourcing and selection of seeds?
[23:57] What is shishito pepper and how did it become popular?
[25:21] Where can you find quality-built grow lights?
[26:52] How wind chimes can enhance your mindfulness practice
[29:28] What are some tried and true favorite seed varieties at Territorial Seed?
[32:44] The seed trialing process at Territorial Seed
[37:39] What is the timeline for developing marketing materials before sourcing seeds at Territorial Seeds?
[39:17] How many years does it take to trial a seed and bring it to market?
[39:55] What criteria determine if a seed is selectable or not?
[40:49] What are the reasons seeds are cut back or not offered?
[42:33] Determining when seeds are ready for market
[43:57] Differences in trialing edibles vs flowers
[46:10] Where can you find quality weighted blankets for overall better sleep?
[48:38] What is the process of breeding better seeds?
[52:15] How does Territorial Seed collaborate with other seed companies and outside farmers? [53:40] From mass production to nationwide sales: the seed distribution process
[56:24] How does Territorial Seed pack and produce seeds?
[1:04:20] Kat and Andrew's favorite seeds to grow
[1:08:22] What new seed varieties do Territorial Seed look forward to?
[1:13:32] Territorial Seed's upcoming products that can grow seeds in small containers
[1:15:15] Essential tips for beginner gardeners in small space gardening

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a closer look at the seed production process,

Learn more about Territorial Seed Company by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - and get a 10% discount applied at checkout.

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving to add a special message on your wind chimes.

Bearaby

Weighted blankets have been proven to improve sleep, ease anxiety, and relieve stress through the therapeutic power of deep touch pressure (DTP), and Bearaby has completely changed the game. Bearaby takes a design-focused approach to bringing medically beneficial products into people’s lives by creating products in different sizes and variety that you'll be proud to display throughout your home. Treat yourself to a weighted blanket because everyone deserves good sleep!

Use code GROWINGJOY for free, faster shipping at bearaby.com.

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can Plants Feel? Unmasking Plant Intelligence with Paco Calvo and Natalie Lawrence

Tue, 7 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered if plants have intelligence and emotions in the same way that humans do? Plant intelligence is a topic that has been gaining more attention in recent years. The idea that plants are not just passive organisms, but actively respond to their environment and make decisions, is fascinating. To delve deeper into this subject, we are joined by two experts in the field: Paco Calvo, a professor of philosophy of science and the principal investigator at the MINT Lab, and Natalie Lawrence, a writer and illustrator with a Ph.D. and MSc in the history and philosophy of zoology. Together, they will share their knowledge and insights on plant intelligence and explore the ways in which plants communicate, learn, and make decisions. Whether you're a gardener, a scientist, or simply curious about the natural world, this episode will give you a new perspective on the intelligence of plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[06:32] Who is Professor Paco Palvo?
[07:01] Why is MINT Lab in the philosophy department instead of the plant science department?
[09:28] Who is Natalie Lawrence?
[10:00] The relationship between animals and plants: biophilia
[13:34] What is anthropophilia?
[16:26] What role do houseplants play in our relationship with nature?
[18:04] How humans have shaped the phenotype, or characteristics, of plants through agriculture
[20:09] What special message would you engrave on your wind chime?
[22:40] The best way to sleep better and feel calmer naturally in no time!
[25:58] Different types of intelligence displayed by plants
[26:39] How do we see from a plant’s perspective?
[27:27] Tip 1: Observe the plants’ behavior through time-lapse photography
[27:45] Tip 2: Monitor the plants’ electrophysiological states
[28:14] Tip 3: Observe the plant holistically through naked eyes (the most important!)
[32:41] Melatonin synthesis in plants: what we can learn
[34:57] How vines (climbing plants) have evolved to locate host trees through senses like "sniffing"
[36:59] Where to get the best quality and variety of seeds for ease of planting experience this year!
[38:35] Sourcing a wide variety of high-quality soil, fertilizer, potty mix, and more!
[40:24] What are some of the ways vines (climbing plants) can find their host trees?
[42:04] Are plants smarter? (Hint: It’s not what you think!)
[44:07] What are the limits of technology when it comes to understanding plant intelligence?
[46:56] Do plants have feelings?
[50:24] Do plants understand music?
[53:35] What is plant blindness?

Mentioned in our conversation:

Planta Sapiens: The New Science of Plant Intelligence, book by Paco Calvo and Natalie Lawrence
MINT Lab / Minimal Intelligence Lab
How society makes monsters, TEDx talk by Natalie Lawrence
BBC Wildlife - Natalie Lawrence
BBC Woman's Hour "The unicorn - a symbol of our times?" with Natalie Lawrence
Natalie Lawrence on Aeon Magazine

For a deeper dive into biophilia and lesser-known plant abilities,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving to add a special message on your wind chimes.

Bearaby

Use code GROWINGJOY for free, faster shipping at bearaby.com.

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Paco:

MINT Lab

Follow Natalie:

Twitter

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Seed Starting Basics with Joe Lamp'l

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Seed starting is such a joyful and empowering experience for any plant parent. The reward of successfully taking a dormant seed, germinating it and nurturing it into the full plant that it’s destined to become encourages more mindfulness and joy in the garden. However, it can also be intimidating and stressful for many. In this episode, Joe Lamp’l of Joe Gardener discusses some common seed-starting challenges and how to overcome them, as well as some tips for starting your own seeds.

In this episode, we learn:

[02:02] Jessica's Zweig’s Be. book and branding agency
[03:03] Why seed starting is a lifelong skill
[05:43] About Joe Lamp’l
[09:42] Why starting your own seeds and doing it organically is very important
[17:45] Maria’s definition of “Gardener's Itch”
[20:53] How to keep track of your seeds over multiple seasons
[28:16] The key date to understand when starting seeds
[34:14] For a home gardener, these plants are too hard to start indoors
[39:52] How to read a seed packet
[40:50] How deep should you plant seeds?
[53:25] Things you need to know before buying a germination mat
[56:08] How long do seeds last?
[01:02:38] The importance of dampening your seed starting mix before you plant your seeds
[01:03:52] Which light is best suited for your seeds?
[01:07:13] How do you water your seedlings?
[01:12:19] How to avoid overwatering and underwatering your seeds
[01:15:24] Joe Lamp’l greenhouse updates

Get $100 off Joe’s Master Seed Starting Digital Course!

Discount only applies through January 30th, 2023 so grab it while it’s live!

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a detailed list of must-have and must-know when seed starting,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Bearaby

Use code GROWINGJOY for free, faster shipping at bearaby.com.

Follow Joe:

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caudex Plant Care with Plant Daddy Pod

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Are you ready to add some unique, eye-catching beauty to your plant collection? Meet the caudex plant—also known as the foot, Stephania erecta, or even the Potato Plant. While these plants may be stunning, they can be a handful to take care of without proper knowledge. Join us as we explore the world of caudex plants with expert guests Stephen and Matthew from the Plant Daddy Podcast. From the well-known Stephania erecta to other varieties that are more accessible and easy to care for, we'll share everything you need to know to be successful with caudex plants.

In this episode, we learn:

[05:07] Are you pronouncing “caudex” correctly?
[06:11] Who are Stephen and Matthew of Plant Daddy Podcast?
[11:59] What is a caudex plant and why is it called a “potato plant”?
[16:21] Finding caudex plants in the wild
[18:31] Using caudex plants as decorations
[20:21] How Stephania erecta became so popular among caudex plants
[23:29] Did Stephania erecta live up to its hype?
[25:04] Challenges to growing and caring for Stephania erecta
[30:05] Are you looking for hand-knitted, sustainably made weighted blankets?
[32:57] Where to find high-quality seeds and edible flowers
[34:55] Some tips on how to grow your own flowers!
[35:44] Maria's personal experience with growing Stephania erecta
[37:16] What other caudex plants are easy to grow?
[37:35] Caudex plant #1: Stephania kaweesakii
[38:18] Caudex plant #2: Ant plant
[38:50] Caudex plant #3: Dioscorea
[39:25] Caudex plant #4: Bigfoot plant (Gerrardanthus macrorhizus)
[40:00] Legalities and considerations when buying Stephania erecta
[43:05] How can you verify whether the caudex plant you bought is legal?
[46:09] What is the best way to care for caudex plants? (Hint: Research is key!)
[50:02] How to water caudex plants correctly
[56:58] Choosing the right soil for your caudex plants
[01:01:10] Where to find wind chimes for your garden or house
[01:04:02] Get quality gardening products for your next gardening season
[01:06:03] What do we need to know when caudex plants go dormant?
[01:10:46] What is ant plant and why is it easier to maintain?
[01:19:59] Other caudex plant types (ficus, tropical, botanical, etc.)
[01:21:00] Matthew and Stephen's plans for their plant collections in 2023

Mentioned in our conversation:

Spray bottles
Joshua Weissman, Youtube channel
Falling for Christmas, a Christmas movie featuring Lindsay Lohan
Spirited, a Christmas movie by Will Ferrell

For a detailed list of caudex plants' care basics,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Bearaby

Use code GROWINGJOY for free, faster shipping at bearaby.com.

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Stephen and Matthew (Plant Daddy Podcast):

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What to Do When a Plant Dies with Cassidy from Succulents and Sunshine

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Are you a plant killer? It's a question that plagues many of us who have tried our hand at gardening, only to have our beloved plants wilt and die despite our best efforts. But fear not! In this episode, Cassidy Tuttle of Succulents and Sunshine explains that it's all a matter of understanding your plants and their specific needs. Come join us as we take a deeper look at how to deal with plant death.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:00] Does being a plant parent mean you’re also a plant killer?
[05:24] Who is Cassidy and how she became the plant parent she is today
[06:00] What is Succulents and Sunshine about?
[10:55] Cassidy's take on how plant parents handle plant death
[12:45] Trying to keep an echeveria succulent alive
[14:36] When to toss vs. treat your plants [it's simple!]
[16:24] The importance of a plant care routine
[18:34] Why it’s important to know your plant number
[19:27] Emotional attachment to our plants [feat. Maria's lime tree story]
[22:20] Maria's experience with generational plant gifts
[25:45] What Cassidy learned from every plant failure
[25:52] Tip #1 Be more attentive to your plants
[26:18] Tip #2 Different plants require different care
[27:41] Tip #3 Don't be too hard on yourself; plants die in the wild too
[28:43] Where to get plant seeds that are guaranteed to last longer
[30:40] Get quality grow lights that will last and look stunning next to your plants
[32:31] Why most of the plants we have aren’t designed to live in our homes.
[34:39] Why Haworthia is most suitable as your indoor succulent
[36:37] Should you try to grow the same plant again or let it go completely?
[41:20] What are some ways to reduce your plant collection?
[44:13] Learning to let go of dying plants
[48:32] The mental cost of holding onto something that no longer serves you
[51:23] What are the two options when you kill a plant?

Mentioned in our conversation:

For an in-depth look into plant deaths and generational plant gifts,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Get 10% off your order by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.

Soltech

Soltech makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Follow Cassidy:

Youtube

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Growing Joy with Plants Podcast Trailer

Thu, 5 Jan 2023 19:29:47 +0000

The answer to a happier, more connected life could be simpler than you think: learning to care for plants and connect with nature. Houseplants and gardening do more than beautify our homes and lawns, the act of caring for them helps us reduce stress, increase joy and cultivate connections with ourselves, others and the earth. Deep, right?

On the Growing Joy Podcast, learn alongside host and author Maria Failla to not only care for plants, but how to simply and affordably use plants to manage your overwhelm, anxiety and stress and live a happier, more connected and calm life.

Plant care is self care.

Come grow some joy with us.

Follow along on socials @growingjoywithmaria

Take the Plant Parent Personality Test https://growingjoywithmaria.com/personality

Grab our free downloads: https://growingjoywithmaria.com/freebies

Visit the website! https://growingjoywithmaria.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We changed our name! Bloom & Grow Radio is now Growing Joy with Maria!

Tue, 3 Jan 2023 21:30:30 +0000

We changed our name! Bloom & Grow Radio is now Growing Joy with Maria! This is just a mini episode reminding you that this week you’ll see our name and podcast art change. But don’t worry: it's the same Maria, same planty heart and inspiration, just a new upgraded look inspired by my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover’s Guide to Cultivating Happiness.

I feel like this rebrand is like a juvenile Monstera that has grown into a fenestrated one!

Last week’s episode titled “We’re Growing” is a deep dive on the motivations behind this rebrand. My business coach actually interviews ME about everything that’s gone on behind the scenes since I took this podcast full time.

Here are the improvements you’ll enjoy this year because of this rebrand:

Weekly episodes instead of every other week
2 episodes about plant care per month (which is what B&GR currently delivered) and then two MORE episodes that can be community panels about plants/gardening or interviews with wellness experts who specialize in nature based therapies like forest bathing, horticultural therapy, biophilia, plant intelligence and more. So we’ve DOUBLED the content!

On this mini episode, I take you behind the scenes of the audio design and inspiration for our new theme song.

Get excited to explore how to build a rich, beautiful, joyful life alongside your plants. This year is going to be filled with so much UNBELIEVABLE educational content to help you

1) care for your plants successfully but then

2) take it to the next level and explore just why plants make us happy and how plant care can be the most effective form of self care.

Let’s keep blooming and keep growing JOY, Plant Friends!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re Growing: How Embracing Life and Mental Health Challenges Can Positively Affect a Business with Callie, my Business Coach

Tue, 27 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

I have been hard at work over the past years to grow my business and bring you better content and experience. We want to thank you for being a part of our journey and sharing your love for plants with us. This 2023, we are so excited to announce that we are rebranding into Growing Joy With Maria! In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and business coach, Callie England, to share with you the behind-the-scenes of my business, life, mental health challenges, the lessons I have learned, and why I’m rebranding.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:46] We are growing: Bloom & Grow is rebranding!
[03:02] Here's what's upcoming!
[04:13] Exploring wellness through the lens of plants
[05:32] Growing Joy with Maria: Keep Blooming and Growing Joy!
[06:48] Meet Maria’s business coach and friend, Callie England
[09:44] Maria and Callie's friendship history
[11:03] How Callie went from WallyGrow to coaching creative entrepreneurs
[11:47] Callie’s battle with cancer
[13:25] Maria and Callie’s first phone call – and the beginning of everything
[14:26] What makes entrepreneurship lonely?
[15:38] Women empowerment in business
[18:21] Bloom & Grow’s evolution from a passion project to a full-time career
[20:49] Securing sponsorships for your business
[22:19] Getting recognized in a plant shop!
[23:57] Getting through the pandemic as an entrepreneur
[26:22] Maria's concern about monetizing Bloom & Grow
[28:14] What Maria learned from working with ad agencies
[30:27] Keeping business and brand reputation in balance
[34:17] Maria's mental health journey through Bloom & Grow
[38:37] Healing your mind through plant care
[45:10] Authenticity and toxic positivity
[47:13] What can we expect from Growing Joy in 2023?
[52:10] Callie's creative process behind Growing Joy's rebranding
[54:12] The drawback of doing many things all at once
[54:42] Knowing when to say “No”
[57:18] How to get in touch with Callie!
[1:00:20] Sneak peek of the next Growing Joy With Maria’s episodes!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Bloom and Grow Radio's first 10 episodes:

For more info on Growing Joy with Maria,

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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How to Prep Your Houseplants for Winter

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

How do you prep your houseplants for winter? Winter is coming, and for some of you plant friends, it’s already here! Plant parents tend to fear winter, but as long as you understand the changes your plants are experiencing, it doesn’t need to be nerve-wracking. After living through multiple winters with my plant babies, specifically in small apartments and large homes, I’ve definitely learned a lot through trial and error. In this episode, we will go through as many tips and insights as possible to help set you and your plants up for success through the winter. So, plant friends, let's dive in and learn how winter impacts our plants and some actionable steps to take to ensure their health and happiness!

Give the gift of Growing Joy!

Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

In this episode, we learn:

[05:28] The effect of light on the growth of plants
[06:52] How winter impacts your plants
[07:34] Why leaf drop isn’t necessarily bad
[07:55] Do some people experience more light in winter?
[09:15] What is quiescence and how does it affect plants?
[10:09] Are all plants dormant during the winter season?
[10:50] Is preemptive pruning really necessary?
[11:30] Supplementing high-light plants with grow lights during the winter
[13:14] How should you water your plants during winter?
[14:29] Which is better? Watering routine or plant care routine?
[15:47] Beware of the one-size fits all suggestions on plant care
[16:41] Why you shouldn’t assume your plant is dead
[18:19] Things to keep in mind with plant shopping during winter
[21:30] Where to get seeds for your spring garden
[22:52] The best gardening products that are safe for you, for your pets, and for the planet
[24:21] How your plants get affected by humidity
[26:03] Using a humidifier in your household
[29:03] How to protect your plants from drafty windows during winter
[30:40] How to clean your humidifiers
[31:46] When can you stop watering your plants?
[32:42] How to deal with pest outbreaks during winter
[34:21] How can you apply this concept of quiescence to yourself?
[37:08] The rule of 10% less in adapting acquiesce in your life

Mentioned in our conversation:

YouTube video My Home Grow light Tour!
YouTube video Moisture Meter and Hygrometer Review
Grow Lights
Hygrometers
Radiators
Humidifiers

For a detailed summary and extra winter tips,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Get an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order at territorialseed.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Give the gift of Growing Joy!

Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Grow Your Own Tea: Intro to Herbalism with Juliet of Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000

How can we use plants medicinally in our lives? Plants heal us in more ways than one, and one of the less-known practices is herbalism. Most of the plants and herbs we use today were used for medicinal purposes in ancient times and are, in fact, still used in many cultures around the world as natural remedies. In this episode, Juliet Blankespoor, the founder of the Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine, will teach us many different and easy ways that we can use plants as medicine so we can expand our knowledge on this whole field of plant benefits.

In this episode, we learn:

[04:58] What led Juliet Blankenspoor to become interested in herbalism
[08:52] What makes plants medicinal, and have they been proven by doctors?
[11:51] Energetics of plants and how to complement their energies with people's
[15:49] How do you determine your own energy constitution?
[16:45] Who is Wim Hoff and what are the possible benefits of cold showers?
[19:16] What's the best way to get started with this completely new field of medicinal benefits?
[22:22] Where to get the best seeds for your spring garden
[23:38] The right choice for safe indoor and outdoor gardening products
[27:03] What are the properties of Mint?
[28:30] Some of the commonly used herbs that we might not be aware of
[30:01] What tonic means in the context of herbal medicine
[32:36] What are the medicinal properties of chives?
[33:58] How we can prepare tea from fresh and dried herbs
[38:16] Is there any medicinal value to the mint stem?
[39:43] What other herbs can you grow to make your own tea?
[44:13] Your next favorite kitchen appliance!
[47:19] What are some of the most versatile medicinal plants Juliet recommends exploring that aren't found in a traditional culinary garden?
[48:19] What plants should you add to your culinary garden for medical benefits?
[52:38] Juliet Blankespoor’s favorite herbs that you can add to your cooking recipes
[57:39] What can you learn from the book 'The Healing Garden: Cultivating and Handcrafting Herbal Remedies'?

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Healing Garden: Cultivating and Handcrafting Herbal Remedies, book by Juliet Blankespoor
Tea strainers
Wim Hof Method

SPECIAL OFFER: Juliet is offering the Bloom & Grow Audience 10% off all her courses. Email maria@bloomandgrowradio.com to get the special coupon code to redeem your discount.

For a list of recipes and remedies of Juliet's recommended herbs,

Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Get an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order at territorialseed.com.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Lomi

Lomi is a small countertop composter that is the perfect solution to reducing your garbage footprint and food waste. This sleek composter enables you to compost hassle-free: just take your food scraps and put it in the Lomi, press a button, and you're set! Lomi is giving a rare discount $50 off with code BLOOM at checkout!

Go to pela.com and redeem your special gift and use code BLOOM at checkout!

Follow Juliet:

Healing Garden Gateway, personal website of Juliet Blankespoor

SPECIAL OFFER: Juliet is offering the Bloom & Grow Audience 10% off all her courses. Email maria@bloomandgrowradio.com to get the special coupon code to redeem your discount.

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How to Adjust to Moving to a Different Garden Zone with Mama Failla

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

How do you tackle a different garden zone than what you’re used to? Moving can be a tremendous and significant change in our lives, with so much excitement and opportunities awaiting us in new places. However, for gardeners like us, it can mean a scary and stressful time starting from scratch with our gardens, especially in a completely different gardening zone. This is what Mama Failla, an expert gardener in Zone 7, had to learn and adapt to when she and Father Failla moved to a Zone 10, which is in tropical Florida. In this episode, Mama Failla imparts practical gardening and motherly advice on moving and facing the different seasons of life with optimism and resilience.

Give the gift of Growing Joy! Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:36] Maria’s updates from sunny Florida
[03:06] A gift idea for yourself and for your other plant friends
[06:03] How moving can influence one’s self and gardener identity
[11:22] What has moving from New York to Florida been like for Mama Failla?
[13:42] How long does it take to adjust to a new garden zone?
[17:09] The difference between New York soil and Florida soil
[20:22] The best plant accessories for gifting this holiday season
[23:43] What are practical ways to prepare for a new garden zone and climate?
[28:34] On the importance of determining sun exposure in your new garden
[31:40] Why you need to consider growing in pots or container gardens
[33:52] Where to get the best advice on your new garden zone
[37:48] The best gardening products to set your garden up for success
[40:17] Why gardening should be fun and experimental!
[43:49] Mama Failla shares how she deals with the current season of life she’s in
[49:29] What are Mama Failla’s plans for her garden next year?
[52:51] Maria’s reflections on transitions and her gardening journey

Mentioned in our conversation:

BAGR Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes With Craig LeHoullier And My MOM
BAGR Episode 91: My Mom’s 10 Tips For Beginning Gardeners And Edible Landscapers
FREE 2-week trial to the Garden Party!

To see Mama Failla's new gardening zone checklist,

check out the full blog and show notes here!

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Modern Sprout

When you think of planty products and accessories, you need to think Modern Sprout. With gorgeous different lines of planty products and accessories from grow lights to watering cans to the cutest gift sets, Modern Sprout has got you covered for this holiday season.

Visit modernsprout.com/growingjoy to see my top gift picks for the holidays and use code GROWINGJOY at checkout for 20% off sitewide.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Give the gift of Growing Joy!

Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Website: www.bloomandgrowradio.com

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How To Keep Your Plants Alive While On Vacation

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Are you worried about leaving your plants at home this holiday season? When I was constantly on the road for shows as a musical theater performer, I became a professional traveler and learned a lot of dos and don’ts when it comes to leaving your plant babies at home. The experience can be scary: it can make traveling—what is supposed to be exciting and relaxing—a time filled with anxiety. In this episode, I share many helpful tips you can start implementing on your plant collection so you can enjoy your vacations and holidays stress-free!

Give the gift of Growing Joy! Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

In this episode, we learn:

[01:28] Maria’s fall updates
[02:24] Have you been to the kindest and plantiest corner of the internet yet?
[03:03] The perfect planty gift for your loved ones this holiday
[04:56] What inspired Maria to do an episode on plants and traveling
[09:46] Your next favorite kitchen appliance!
[12:40] Understanding your plants’ lighting needs when you’re on vacation
[15:12] The importance of using grow lights in your home
[17:37] How to make sure your plants get good air circulation while you’re gone
[19:28] Maria shares her experience of accidentally leaving her plants in extremely hot temperatures
[21:31] How to keep your plants watered while you’re away
[25:23] Different watering hacks when on vacation
[29:36] Where to get stylish and functional plant accessories for gifting
[33:40] Why you need to cut off dead and yellowing leaves from your plants
[35:31] Should you hire a plant sitter when you go on vacation?
[40:40] Why putting your plants in the bathtub while you’re away might not work
[41:33] How to avoid root rot in plants
[42:34] Why the greenhouse method won’t work when you’re on vacation
[44:33] Maria’s reminder about the role of plants in our lives
[46:17] What to keep in mind as you travel and move around this holiday season

Mentioned in our conversation:

For a detailed summary of Maria's tips and tricks,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Modern Sprout

Visit modernsprout.com/growingjoy to see my top gift picks for the holidays and use code GROWINGJOY at checkout for 20% off sitewide.

Lomi

Go to pela.com and redeem your special gift and use code BLOOM at checkout!

Give the gift of Growing Joy!

Gift your loved ones copies of Growing Joy and get a free personalized bookplate and month to the Garden Party!

Visit bit.ly/giftgrowingjoy to redeem!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

visit the full blog and show notes here!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everyday Plant Magic with Rachael of Infinite Succulent

Tue, 1 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Do you believe in magic? When we were kids, it was so easy—almost natural—for us to believe in magic. There was a certain charm to casting spells, making potions, or even wishing on a random star on a starry night. For many of us, as we grew older and we found ourselves in different unexpected directions, we started to let go of our belief in magic. Fortunately, our plants are the best bridge to reconnecting us with this magic, with ourselves, with our curiosity, and even with things yet to be known, and here’s Rachael of Infinite Succulent to tell us more about plant magic.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:19] Have you been to the kindest and plantiest corner of the internet?
[02:49] What this episode is about
[06:29] Who is Rachael and what does she do?
[07:44] Maria shares a heartwarming story about Rachael
[09:11] Rachael’s academic background, her professional journey, and how she ultimately became the nature connector she is today
[16:09] How Rachael got started with energy work
[18:18] What Rachael’s new book is about
[18:50] How does Rachael define magic?
[21:36] On the divine timing and trusting the universe to take you where you need to go
[24:32] Why has connecting with nature never been more important than today?
[27:33] How can plants help us move energy more intentionally?
[30:16] What do negative ions in plants do for our health?
[31:41] Where to get the best seeds for your 2023 garden
[32:36] How to combat the low humidity in your home
[34:37] Why biophilia is becoming a necessity, especially in workplaces
[36:40] On green witchcraft and connecting with nature through different ways
[39:22] Why connecting with plants is an inherent trait and experience in all of us
[43:33] On worshipping nature, religions, and finding spirituality in nature
[46:25] Different ways to connect with plant magic
[50:57] How do we know which plants have which energies?
[53:12] On connecting with the moon and our emotions
[57:36] Rachael’s magical experience that resulted from her ritual on abundance
[01:00:34] How plants teach us to be more open to new information and ideas
[01:03:05] Maria’s current definition of magic
[01:04:33] Where to find Rachael and her book online
[01:05:39] What is sacred reciprocity? What is true magic?
[01:07:12] Maria’s reflections on magic, plant magic, and spirituality

Mentioned in our conversation:

Everyday Plant Magic: Change Your Life Through the Magical Energy of Nature, book by Rachael Cohen
Infinite Succulent: Miniature Living Art to Keep or Share, book by Rachael Cohen
The Artist's Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, book by Julia Cameron
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear, book by Elizabeth Gilbert
The Green Witch: Your Complete Guide to the Natural Magic of Herbs, Flowers, Essential Oils, and More, book by Arin Murphy-Hiscock
Braiding Sweetgrass, book by Robin Wall Kimmerer
The Moon Book
BAGR Episode 60: Live Taping! DIY Succulent Crowns With Infinite Succulent

For tips on recreating plant magic at home,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Modern Sprout

Visit modernsprout.com/growingjoy to see my top gift picks for the holidays and use code GROWINGJOY at checkout for 20% off sitewide.

Territorial Seed Company

Get an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order at territorialseed.com.

AIRCARE

Take care of your health while maintaining your indoor jungle aesthetic with AIRCARE's latest line of 27 different stylish and smart humidifiers to humidify your home and life. AIRCARE has been producing quality humidifiers for over 70 years for all types of homes, with cool features like a digital screen that shows you the humidity level and time, multiple LED light colors, and even warm and cool mist settings!

Visit aircareproducts.com and use code bloom20 a checkout for 20% off sitewide.

Follow Rachael:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

check out the full show notes, blog, and tips here!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Plant Care for Earth Care with Farmer Nick

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

How can our plant hobby make this world a better place? For me, learning to care for plants was the gateway drug for becoming more aware of how much growth opportunity I had when it came to caring for the earth. I've discovered that there are so many ways to lead a sustainable life, especially with our plant care journey. In this episode, I invited back Nick Cutsumpas, aka Farmer Nick, to further guide us in making small shifts that have a big impact on our planet’s wellbeing.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:52] Maria’s fall updates
[01:56] What today’s episode is about
[05:53] Who is Farmer Nick?
[08:04] Nick shares his plant journey from backyard gardener to plant coach and landscaper
[13:42] The most important value to your plant number
[15:22] Applying approachability and relatability to our plant care
[18:05] Why houseplants as a hobby encourages us to keep learning
[19:42] Dealing with plant death and adjusting your plant care
[24:28] What is the concept behind ‘mindful neglect’?
[26:42] Where to get the best grow lights to get your plants through winter
[27:57] How to reduce your food waste and garbage footprint
[29:45] On the misconception that plants can be stressful and take up a lot of your time
[34:47] Tips for a more sustainable and eco-focused plant parenthood
[39:43] Nick’s plant setup in his new home
[42:30] How houseplants can jumpstart our journey to sustainability
[45:46] How growing plants lessened Maria’s meat consumption
[47:24] Why every step for a sustainable lifestyle matters
[50:10] Where to find Nick and his book online
[51:33] A thank you to new Garden Party members

Mentioned in our conversation:

Plant Coach: The Beginner's Guide to Caring for Plants and the Planet, book by Nick Cutsumpas
BAGR Episode 110: Low Waste Plant Parenthood with Farmer Nick
Instant Dream Home, series by Netflix

For a deep dive into our conversation on sustainable plant parenthood,

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

AIRCARE

Visit aircareproducts.com and use code bloom20 a checkout for 20% off sitewide.

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.

Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Lomi

Lomi is offering us $50 off with code BLOOM at checkout.

Go to pela.com and use code Bloom at checkout!

Follow Nick:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

visit the full show notes and blog here!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Heart Centered Gardening with Danielle LaPorte

Tue, 4 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Taking care of plants is putting our love into practice. Even if it’s not something we actively think about or do, this hobby of ours revolves around kindness, care, and deepening our love for ourselves, other people, and our planet. We lead with love when it comes to our plant collection, and there is no one else more perfect to talk about love than bestselling author, spiritual leader, fellow plant lady, and an inspiration to thousands of people everywhere, Danielle LaPorte.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:34] Life updates from Maria
[02:03] What to expect from this plant-parallel episode
[03:54] How to avoid sad-looking indoor plants
[05:33] Caring for a Buddhist pine according to Danielle!
[06:54] How plants help us through our limiting beliefs
[09:28] Danielle shares her plant parenthood journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way
[15:45] Who is Danielle and what are the core values that she lives by?
[20:16] How can personal development be unproductive to living our best lives?
[23:40] Why are plants and love deeply connected? How does Danielle see the relationship between nature and the self?
[28:03] How to keep your home, your plants, and yourself hydrated
[30:03] Where to get the best fertilizers, potting mixes, and more
[31:28] The healing benefits of Hinoki essential oil
[32:35] Different works of art that show gratitude to nature
[33:40] In what ways has Mother Nature helped Danielle heal?
[37:55] On turning inward and shifting perspectives on the things we identify as
[40:47] What is the difference between embodiment and feeling?
[43:06] How does Danielle define love? How can we embody love in everything we do?
[44:20] What is the practice of weeding thoughts? How do negative thoughts influence the way we move in the world?
[45:50] How powerful self-talk can be and why we need to avoid negative mindset
[49:35] Overcoming body image issues and honoring your body
[53:29] What is the heart center? Where do we start with feeling into our heart center?
[56:17] What does Danielle hope people take away from her newest book How To Be Loving?
[58:00] Why our love for plants can expand into love for everything
[58:50] How to join Danielle’s book launch
[01:00:22] Maria on why you should add Danielle to your following list!

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to Be Loving: As Your Heart Is Breaking Open and Our World Is Waking Up, book by Danielle LaPorte
The Desire Map Experience: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul, book by Danielle LaPorte
The Fire Starter Sessions: A Soulful + Practical Guide to Creating Success on Your Own Terms, book by Danielle LaPorte
WC Jungle
My Neighbor Totoro, 1988 film by Studio Ghibli
Braiding Sweetgrass, book by Robin Wall Kimmerer

For an in-depth look at our conversation,

Follow Danielle:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

visit the full show notes and blog here!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

3 Easy DIY Houseplant Projects to Utilize Vertical Space

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Are you running out of space for your plants? Growing your plant collection can be quite the challenge when all your countertops, tablespace and even floorspace have been populated with your plant babies. Don’t fret any longer, plant friends, as we got the most beautiful and mess-free DIY projects for you to make the most out of your vertical space at home! In this episode, learn alongside me as Erin Harding of @houseplantclub and @cleverbloom gives us step-by-step tutorials on three amazing yet easy DIYs for your vertical garden.

In this episode, we learn:

[00:25] Maria’s eureka moment for this episode!
[01:53] Updates on country living and hummingbirds
[05:06] Welcome, new Garden Party members!
[06:57] The easiest way to compost your food scraps
[11:06] Who is Erin and how did Clever Bloom and Houseplant Club get started?
[15:14] On the importance of evolving with your plant collection
[18:26] Erin and Morgan’s brilliant first and second books
[22:12] How Erin curated her personal aesthetic and developed her passion for DIY
[24:56] Why accessibility and variety encourage people to DIY
[27:22] Why you should use vertical space for your plants
[31:40] How to make a modern beaded macrame plant hanger
[35:15] The best and most stylish grow lights for your home
[37:14] Where to get humidifiers for your home and for your health!
[39:37] Different ways to customize your macrame plant hanger
[44:41] Step-by-step tutorial of DIY air plant driftwood piece
[48:03] Watering your air plants in your DIY driftwood plant accessory
[50:09] What is a kokedama and how does it work?
[52:04] What are ideal plants to use in a kokedama?
[53:38] How to make your own kokedama
[55:59] Bringing natural beauty into your home through DIY projects
[01:00:12] Erin’s favorite DIY project in her latest book
[01:03:20] Where to find Erin (and Morgan!) online
[01:04:53] A friendly reminder for this fall season

Mentioned in our conversation:

How to plant a room: and grow a happy home, by Morgan Doane and Erin Harding
BAGR Episode 16: Mounting Epiphytes And The Creation Of Cleverbloom.Com

For the step-by-step tutorials of these 3 DIY projects...

Follow Erin:

House Plant Club Instagram

Clever Bloom website

Clever Bloom Instagram

Planting Pink Etsy

Planting Pink website

Planting Pink Instagram

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

visit our blog about this episode here!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Fall Gardening Tips with Joe Lamp'l

Tue, 6 Sep 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Did you know that fall is secretly one of the most wonderful gardening seasons? As we move into fall and the air starts feeling colder, you might be thinking that gardening season is well over. But good news, plant friends! Fall is an amazing time to extend your growing season and plant a different variety of edible plants. To guide us through this underrated gardening season, Joe Lamp’l of Joe Gardener joins me in a conversation and shares basic knowledge and tips for successful fall gardening.

In this episode, we learn:

[01:10] Hello, autumn and new and old plant friends!
[02:23] Celebrating Joe Gardener’s new book!
[04:50] Making gardening accessible to all levels of gardeners
[07:29] What Joe has been up to since his last Bloom and Grow ep
[14:27] Why is fall the best season to garden?
[16:24] Things to consider when doing a fall garden
[18:36] How to plant lettuce seeds
[19:29] How to thin seedlings
[21:34] When to plant fall crops
[22:46] Why do crops taste better after being exposed to frost?
[23:21] Joe’s favorite and beginner-friendly crops to plant in fall
[25:59] When and how to plant garlic for the best harvest
[27:30] How to harvest and use garlic scapes
[28:57] Fall vs other gardening seasons
[30:46] The best companion for your garden
[32:05] Where to get stylish and effective grow lights
[34:13] Why fall gardening is an opportunity to mentally reset
[37:21] How gardening in fall can help with our mental health
[39:19] Why Joe advocates thinking like a plant
[42:51] Why intuition is key to growing plants
[46:02] Joe shares the process behind the beautiful photos in his new book
[48:49] How empowering information can be when growing plants
[53:55] Where to get Joe’s latest book ‘The Vegetable Gardening Book’
[57:48] Maria’s garden updates

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Vegetable Gardening Book: Your complete guide to growing an edible organic garden from seed to harvest by Joe Lamp'l
Organic Vegetable Gardening official waitlist - SIGN UP HERE!
Bookshop.org

For full show notes that capture all the amazing info Joe shared...

Follow Joe:

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions. Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Self-Care Through Plant Care

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Plant care is self-care. We hear this phrase a lot these days and I just wrote a book entirely dedicated to this topic. If you are a plant parent, no matter what stage you are in, you know that this hobby is so much deeper than just making our home environments look beautiful; they are, frankly, about beautifying our internal worlds as well. Creating space and time for us to connect with nature and connect with ourselves. If you’ve been a longtime listener, you know this is my favorite topic to wax poetic about, and I found a beautiful kindred spirit in this episode's guest. Niyya is known as @thebloomjourney on Instagram and is a huge believer in nature-based self-care herself. Niyya and I have been IG friends for a while and this conversation was so fun, there are tons of insights to gain from it about how deep and true self-care and plant care can be connected. Let's dive in!

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:51] What to expect from this episode
[02:21] How to get in touch with Maria
[03:00] Where to connect with plant friends in an ad-free platform
[06:12] How Niyya showed up for Maria at her book launch
[08:09] How plants can help during isolation and uncertainty
[09:08] Why plant people are the best kind of friends
[10:26] Who is Niyya and what is The Bloom Journey about?
[11:47] How plants helped Niyya deal with social anxiety and find her passion
[17:37] How the concept of seed dormancy can be applied to our lives
[21:51] What was Niyya’s experience growing up with plants around?
[24:35] Niyya and Maria’s common allergy to mosquitoes and how it disconnected them from nature
[28:08] What plants can teach us about the seasons of life
[29:34] Learning how to let go through plants
[30:18] Why you should try planting garlic this garden season!
[31:39] Bring the sun in your home during winter months
[33:44] Dealing with plant overwhelm by doing a plant pause
[36:36] Why you should take care of plants that work for you and for your lifestyle
[38:08] Why Maria recommends Rhaphidophora's
[39:02] What plant-life parallel keeps getting reflected back to Niyya recently?
[42:37] The art of mindfulness and how plants help us reconnect with ourselves
[46:05] How plants influenced Niyya’s interest for hiking and taking care of her body
[51:31] The importance of being true to ourselves and to our growth, despite losing followers
[54:48] How being our authentic selves can inspire others to do the same
[56:22] What is Niyya’s current favorite way to grow joy in her life?
[57:25] Where to connect with Niyya online
[57:59] Niyya shares an anecdote on the power of connecting with people
[01:00:18] The reality about our experiences with plant care: they are both unique and common at the same time
[01:01:11] A thank you from Maria to you

Mentioned in our conversation:

Being in Love: How to Love with Awareness and Relate Without Fear by Osho

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions. Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Territorial Seed Company

Excited for this year's growing season? If you’re looking for plants for your garden, skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy vegetable plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. They are offering an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order. Order now at territorialseed.com

Follow Niyya:

Mailing list

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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What is Transpiration and Why is it Important for Our Plants? // Knowledge Nugget #6

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 06:00:00 +0000

As we are in the hottest month of the year for us northern hemisphere folk, I thought it was just fitting to share this little nugget of knowledge with you on transpiration and how water moves through our plants as we are likely watering our plants more than we ever have. In this Nugget of Knowledge, Garden Society's resident horticulturist Leslie Halleck gives a little more insight on a familiar yet essential aspect of caring for plants - understanding how they use and move water. I'm sure I'm not the only one noticing the effects of transpiration on our plants as we move through this heat, so let's dive in!

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:02] Are you overwatering your plants?
[00:36] What is a nugget of knowledge?
[01:51] What you’ll get when you join the Garden Society
[02:16] What is transpiration in plants?
[02:49] What does transpiration do for plants?
[04:58] Your open invitation to horticulturist-led plant lectures!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Houseplants that Bloom

Tue, 9 Aug 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Houseplants are celebrated for their amazing foliage, but I think we overlook an another amazing ability, a specific subcategory our favorite indoor plants have—the ability to bloom! Some people say we are intrinsically connected to flowers because way back when, they signified fruit. Personally, I just think they are joyful as hell with their bright colors and let's be frank, we all need a little more joy and color in our lives. To give us a better grasp of this beautiful subcategory, I've invited back Lisa of The Houseplant Guru to talk about the must-knows of houseplants that bloom, and how reconnecting with this group of plants can help us reconnect to generations we might never know.

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:13] Maria’s garden updates
[02:34] Welcome, new Garden Party and Garden Society members!
[04:15] Introducing Lisa, a beloved Bloom and Grow Radio guest
[06:38] African violets and their underrated beauty
[08:27] What are the differences in plant care between foliage houseplants and blooming houseplants?
[13:25] How long should grow lights stay on for flowering houseplants?
[14:13] How does photoperiod affect the bloom cycle of a plant?
[15:42] Can you put orchids under grow lights?
[16:59] Do blooming houseplants need fertilizer?
[20:24] What to do when your orchids don’t bloom
[21:52] The perfect and most sleek grow lights for year-round indoor lighting
[23:24] Where to get an easy-to-use and most varied selection of fertilizers and tones
[25:10] How to get orchids to re-bloom
[26:26] Maria and Lisa share their thoughts about collecting plants and moving homes
[29:51] Best blooming houseplants for beginners
[30:59] Why do you need to turn your holiday cactus all year round?
[31:53] What is the trick for beautiful and healthy African violets?
[33:36] Best blooming houseplants for beginners (continued)
[36:17] Best blooming houseplants for intermediates
[38:38] Are Gerbera daisies appropriate houseplants?
[39:37] How to make blooms last longer
[40:37] Should you fertilize your plant while it is in bloom?
[41:04] Lisa’s favorite blooming houseplants
[41:44] Where to get Lisa’s latest book!
[43:27] Maria’s personal story on how blooming plants connected generations of their family
[48:17] Closing remarks

Mentioned in our conversation:

BAGR episode 133: How To Manage Deer, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Moles, Voles And Other Animals In Your Garden With Brie The Plant Lady
BAGR episode 30: Orchid 101 With Chris
BAGR episode 84 : African Violets 101 With Lisa
Pre-order Lisa’s book “Bloom: The secrets of growing flowering houseplants year-round”

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Soltech Solutions

Soltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions. Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Lisa:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Intro to Essential Oils with Chris Satch

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, you probably know my brain broke a little bit last year when Dr Elle Barnes explained plant science and how the smells we know and love are actually something called VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, that plants use to communicate with each other. I had another mind-blowing experience as I researched my book Growing Joy and learned that scent and smell is one of the most powerful senses for memory and feeling. No wonder candles and essential oils are so popular! For this episode, our guest Chris Satch, a dear friend and Bloom and Grow's repeat guest, breaks down and dives under the surface to explain the what's and why's behind essential oils. Time to get exploring!

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:50] Introducing Chris
[02:48] How is this episode about essential oils?
[05:44] How Chris became the plant parent he is today
[07:50] What is essential oil?
[09:32] What makes up the essence of a plant?
[11:13] What are VOCs and what are their different functions?
[13:38] The truth behind the smell of freshly cut grass
[14:37] How Maria has been engaging her sense of smell in the garden
[15:35] How plants can attract or repel pests based on their smell
[17:20] How do secondary metabolites work? What is the natural function of caffeine?
[19:36] How do you make your own essential oils?
[20:08] What is the process of enfleurage? What are the basic components of enfleurage?
[22:04] What is cold pressing or cold extraction best used for?
[22:44] How does the distillation process work for essential oils?
[23:16] The advantages and disadvantages of steam distillation
[26:39] What is one mistake people make when extracting essential oils?
[28:14] What is the extraction method? Why don’t some people prefer extraction?
[32:31] Where to get the best fertilizers for all your garden needs
[34:58] How to grow a year-round garden with foolproof seeds
[36:57] What is the most accessible method to make your own essential oils?
[39:42] Extracting lavender essence at home using steam distillation
[41:44] Applying the extraction method at home for lavender essential oil
[44:00] Chris’ recommended method for beginners
[46:46] What are the different compounds that make up our favorite and not-so-favorite scents?
[51:39] An easy way to further enrich and explore your growing garden!
[54:36] Chris’ favorite essential oils and plant essences
[56:04] What are some benefits of hinoki essential oil?
[57:55] Can all plants produce essential oils?
[01:00:21] Why are scents personal? How is smell related to memory?
[01:02:17] What are scented plants that you can add to your collection?
[01:05:52] Where to get your plant consultation spot with Chris!
[01:06:56] Easy and simple ways to explore your sense of smell in the garden!
[01:08:17] Different ways to use essential oils at home and while traveling
[01:11:06] Maria’s favorite essential oils and their uses
[01:14:15] Closing remarks

Check out Chris's blog on Essential Oils

Mentioned in our conversation:

BAGR episode: Mind-Blowing Lessons Learned In Intro To Plant Science At NYBG With Dr Elle Barnes
Steam distillation kit
‘Art of Enfleurage’, Better Homes and Gardens May 2022
Boy Smells candles
Young Living essential oils

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Chris:

Instagram: @botanictonic | @nycplantdoctor

Chris's blog on essential oils

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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How Often Should I Change My Propagation Vessel Water? // Knowledge Nugget #5

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 16:15:07 +0000

As plant parents, I'm sure you can agree with me when I say that propagation water situations can bring about SO many questions: Does it need to be changed? Why is it cloudy? Can I just leave it and reuse it? That is why I am so excited to bring this Ask our Horticulturist Anything, or AHA, snippet to you where Leslie Halleck, Garden Society's resident horticulturist, answers common propagation questions, including the best time to take cuttings off your mother plants. Learn along!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

The Bloom and Grow Garden Society is your one-stop shop for plant parenthood growth. When you join, you'll gain full access to the Garden Party Community Platform and App PLUS monthly plant care lectures with Horticulturist in Residence Leslie Halleck, monthly office hours with Leslie to troubleshoot your personal plant care issues and monthly Growing Joy Calls with Maria to develop our community of Society Members and explore the plant/person connection.

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:46] What are nuggets of knowledge?
[01:46] How to level up your plant education
[03:26] How often should you change your propagation water?
[04:07] What factors affect water propagation?
[05:34] When is the best time to take plant cuttings?
[06:16] How to host a plant swap and share cuttings with other plant friends!
[06:45] Where to get horticulturist coaching for your personal collection

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Engage Your Senses with Plants at the NYBG

Tue, 12 Jul 2022 04:30:00 +0000

When I started researching the plant/person connection for my book, Growing Joy, something that surprised me was how limited my view of the plant/person relationship was to sight and taste. I knew I could enjoy looking at my plants and when appropriate, eating the ones I grew, but I realized that I was disconnected from my other three senses when it came to my plant collection. This conversation with Marc Hachadourian is all about our senses and feelings with plants - taped live at the New York Botanical Garden! We share simple and efficient ways to engage all your senses in the garden in this special ep. Let's get to it!

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:15] Updates on Growing Joy
[02:06] What to expect from this episode
[02:31] Why you should visit New York Botanical Garden (or your local botanical garden!)
[04:18] Upcoming exciting live Growing Joy events
[06:15] Who is Marc and how did he become the plant parent he is today?
[07:40] A little introduction about Maria and Growing Joy
[09:34] An excerpt from Growing Joy’s chapter “Plant Seeds of Delight”
[12:14] How to overcome our fear of failure and explore our sense of wonder in the garden
[15:33] How plants and gardening deepen our connection to ourselves
[17:22] Marc shares a story of gratitude in NYBG after the lockdowns
[21:54] An exercise of mindfulness to reconnect with our senses while in the garden
[23:56] How Marc engages his sense of touch in the garden
[27:01] Why temperature is an important component of plant care
[28:25] How plants stimulate our sense of smell; different common smells from plants
[31:45] How smell can indicate what’s good and what’s bad in the garden
[33:55] Why smell is the strongest of the senses
[35:39] An excerpt on taste from Growing Joy
[37:25] How to make use of your sense of taste better
[39:09] The foolproof way to grow your garden!
[40:37] Fertilizers and plant foods for all types of plant parents
[43:14] How growing our own food and tasting our hard work reconnects us to loved ones
[45:44] How to engage your sense of hearing in the garden
[49:29] Marc’s favorite sounds growing up and exploring rainforests
[50:35] Why we shouldn’t underestimate the power of silence
[55:29] The beginning of Growing Joy, “Open Your Eyes”
[58:44] Why Marc believes observation is the most important skill
[01:01:06] How plant care enriches our empathy towards the world
[01:02:58] Live audience question: What orchid varieties are recommended for indoor growth and how do you keep orchids healthy?
[01:04:16] Marc’s review of Growing Joy
[01:05:32] Why our interaction with colors matters to our wellbeing
[01:08:08] Live audience question: Why did the color of my rose change when I moved it?
[01:09:22] Live audience question: What are the best tips for growing roses?
[01:10:51] Live audience question: How do plants improve our environment?
[01:12:10] Mama Failla takes the mic and shares an easy yet most thoughtful gift idea (from plants!)
[01:16:30] Words of gratitude from Maria
[01:18:56] A few simple tips to engage with your plants and with yourself more

Mentioned in our conversation:

Terrain by Anthropologie
One Square Inch rainforest audio
The Sound Tracker, Gordon Hempton’s website
New York Botanical Garden

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Our Community Grows Joy

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 06:32:24 +0000

Plant friends, the most awaited day is here: it's Growing Joy's Pub Day! To celebrate Growing Joy hitting the bookstores and to give thanks to the wonderful community behind Bloom and Grow, I've asked community members to share with us how plants help them grow joy. This episode is a wonderful reminder of what plants can do for us: from helping us learn about the world around us, to rediscovering our inner child, to guiding our healing may it be a spiritual, mental, or emotional, to building a community of like-minded plant people, and many more. I'm so excited to bring to you this heartwarming compilation, and of course, my love letter to plants, Growing Joy: A Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (And Plants). Enjoy!

Order my book!

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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In this episode we learn:

[00:09] What this special episode is about
[02:35] Pub Day is here!
[03:20] What Growing Joy is about
[04:26] The irony behind Growing Joy
[05:03] How a community made Growing Joy possible
[07:50] An excerpt from Growing Joy’s chapter ‘Practice Kindness’
[09:23] How plants help us connect with ourselves and with other people - Jane
[10:46] How plants bring calmness and remind us it’s okay to take things slow - Christy
[11:44] How plants remind us of the special bonds we have with people - Meredith
[12:21] A little fun fact about the humble beginnings of Bloom and Grow
[14:20] How plants bring us joy while traveling - Aaron
[15:21] How plants help us accept failure as part of our growth - Toni
[16:22] How plants encourage us to learn something new every day - Marc, Marie & Miles
[17:49] How plants help us grow joy by learning, sharing and giving - Samantha
[20:24] Cultivating your curiosity with plants, beyond Growing Joy
[21:25] How plants help us heal physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually and more - Nancy, Pamela & Willow
[27:26] How growing flowers helps grow joy - Michael
[28:00] How growing your own food brings joy - Jodi
[29:09] How taking care of lithops grow joy - Jamie
[30:22] How plants give us a sense of purpose - Tina
[31:53] How plants reignite our passion and help us pursue careers that we love - Roos, Chloe, Ami, Rachael, Renee & Bailey
[38:17] How plants build a community that grows joy - Nicki & Steven
[40:08] Maria shares tips on building a community and enjoying activities together
[41:20] How plants help us reconnect with ourselves - Marcia, Karen, Otis, Darlene, Amy, Kamili & Connor
[47:36] Maria’s goal behind writing Growing Joy
[49:02] The introduction of Growing Joy: A Plant Lover’s Guide to Cultivating Happiness (And Plants)

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Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

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It's totally free, just RSVP here

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NYC Plant Swap this Tuesday 6/28!!!

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 18:45:39 +0000

Join my Plant Swap & Book Launch Party at Greenery Unlimited!

Tuesday 6/28 June 28th

Greenery Unlimited in Brooklyn

7-8 Plant Swap

8-9 Cocktails by JuneShine and a book signing!

Order my book! Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)

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Cultivating Curiosity with Plants with Tyler Thrasher

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 16:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, we are diving deep about how and why plants are such a fantastic tool for cultivating curiosity. Beyond making my home look beautiful, the greatest gift plants have given me is reinvigorating my connection with the natural world, and my inner student and child. As kids, we are blessed with this childlike wonder that gets so easy to lose touch with as we grow older, and plants bring that back to us. Our guest, Tyler Thrasher, is just the kind of person to learn how to cultivate curiosity with plants, as he is one of the most innovate, unique plant people hanging out on the internet. So get ready to not just care for your plants today, but to cultivate your own curiosity within you!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:21] Exciting Growing Joy announcements!
[03:55] How Tyler became the plant parent he is today
[06:16] What was Tyler’s experience exploring his interest in nature as he was growing up?
[07:44] How plants teach us about growth and resilience
[09:42] Do you need a degree to study plants?
[12:43] How plants reignite our curiosity about the world around us
[16:13] How do you cultivate your curiosity even during the bad times?
[19:57] Why human curiosity is evolution speaking
[23:54] How Tyler’s greenhouse has changed over the years
[27:17] What does Tyler’s collection look like at present?
[28:24] Safe and quality indoor and outdoor gardening products
[29:48] How to grow your food year-round!
[32:14] What is a sport in plants?
[33:24] Developing The Sport Hunting Guide and making variegated plants more accessible
[38:19] What are different ways to rediscover your passion and love for plants?
[41:24] What steps did Tyler take in exploring his curiosity about his first hybrid?
[44:35] How many hybrids does Tyler have today?
[46:31] How did Tyler learn how to crystallize flowers? How did he explore this curiosity?
[48:17] What does Tyler’s lab setup look like?
[49:02] How long does it take to crystallize something?
[51:32] What does Tyler’s learning process look like? What resources does he use to explore his curiosities?
[56:00] What’s next for Tyler and Moonbeam Flora?
[58:18] Tyler on being a human dad and a plant parent, and raising a kid around plants
[01:01:28] Where to find Tyler online

Mentioned in our conversation:

Braiding Sweetgrass, book by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Tyler Thrasher’s Sport Hunting Guide
Moonbeam Flora
Monstera Sports

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Tyler:

Podcasts

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PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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LIVE NY & Philly Events PLUS an AMAZING Giveaway!

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 16:46:06 +0000

Lots of free online and IRL events happening in the world of Bloom & Grow!

The Cultivating Happiness Giveaway happening on IG through June 16th

Details to enter at @bloomandgrowmaria on IG

Urban Jungle PHILLY Event THIS FRIDAY June 17th at 6 pm

RSVP HERE

NYC Plant Swap and Launch Party at Greenery Unlimited June 28th at 7 pm

RSVP HERE

Pre-order your copy of Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) Here! - hitting bookstores on June 28th!

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Does Isolating Plants and Castile Soap Actually Work? // Knowledge Nugget #4

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 08:00:00 +0000

There is so much confusion on the internet and so many different contrasting practices around how to treat fungus gnats and what to do with a plant when you bring it home. Some people insist on isolating plants for two weeks, some people dismiss that practice. Some people say to sprinkle cinnamon on the soil surface to combat fungus gnats, some say completely swap new soil. One of our Society members, Barbara, asked about whether or not castile soap works and if we really need to isolate our plants - and our Horticulturist in Residence, Leslie Halleck, enlightens us about how these insecticidal soaps actually work to eradicate pests. So in this ep, I gift you this small nugget of knowledge to give you some answers to this common question!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:49] What it’s like to have a horticulturist in residence!
[02:15] The plantiest and kindest corner of the internet for YOU
[03:43] What is castile soap made of?
[04:26] How does castile soap work on pests?
[04:45] The most effective way to get rid of fungus gnats
[05:44] Does isolating plants work? How do you quarantine plants?
[07:20] How to check plants for pests
[08:42] How to join the Bloom & Grow Garden Party and Garden Society

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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How to Make Terrariums, Paludariums and Vivariums

Tue, 7 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Terrariums have played a huge role in my plant collection and life. I recently created a good luck terrarium to bring into the recording studio to record my audiobook for Growing Joy: The Plant Lover’s Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) and had such a special experience planting up this tiny mason jar terrarium, filling it with special plants, stones and crystals, and carrying it in my backpack around NYC while I fulfilled this dream of recording my audiobook. Terrarium guru, Patricia of Doodle Bird Terrariums, breaks down the differences and similarities of terrariums, paludariums, and vivariums and equips us with the knowledge you need to set your first one up after listening to this ep!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:47] The magic of terrariums
[05:22] How Patricia became the plant lady she is today
[06:33] Why Patricia loves terrariums
[07:03] How terrariums can have restorative effects on people
[09:02] What are the differences among terrariums, vivariums, and paladariums?
[11:56] What are the benefits of growing plants in terrariums?
[12:32] What are common terrarium problems and how do you solve them?
[14:36] How do you put isopods in your terrarium?
[15:55] Maria’s first terrarium story
[17:45] How different is it to set up a terrarium, a vivarium, and a paladarium?
[18:39] What materials do you need for a basic terrarium?
[20:30] Open terrariums vs closed terrariums
[21:45] Where can you source terrarium containers?
[23:25] Which plants are NOT recommended for terrariums?
[25:56] Can you use beneficial insects in an open terrarium?
[27:19] How much soil is needed in terrariums?
[28:06] Where to get seeds, flowers, and herbs to start in the summer!
[29:30] Potting mixes tailored to your specific gardening needs? Yes, please!
[31:22] How to plant up a terrarium
[32:21] Patricia’s recommended drainage layer setup
[34:06] How do you water a terrarium? What water should you use for terrariums?
[36:21] How often should you open a closed terrarium?
[37:23] Patricia’s most recommended plants for terrariums
[39:38] How do you set up a vivarium?
[42:03] Can you use driftwood in a vivarium?
[42:58] The best starter pets to put in a vivarium
[45:05] Bigger plants to use in a vivarium
[46:42] How to feed your vivarium animals
[48:19] Where to get tiny and cute terrarium figurines
[49:18] What is the biggest must-know when installing paladariums?
[51:16] Do you clean the water in paladariums? Do you change it?
[52:47] The most common terrarium care mistakes and questions
[57:26] Where to find Patricia online
[59:26] Maria and Billy’s terrarium plans!
[01:00:08] Thank you so much for the pre-orders, plant friends!

Mentioned in our conversation:

BAGR episode: Terrarium 101 with @teenytinyterra
A Family Guide to Terrariums by Patricia Buzo

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Patricia:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Popular and Unique Aroids to Try this Summer with Enid of NSE Tropicals

Tue, 17 May 2022 08:05:00 +0000

Aroids have always been fascinating, with their different leaf shapes, structures, and texture, it's no surprise that this set of plants is only growing more and more popular today. In this episode, we welcome back the queen of the aroids, Enid from NSE Tropicals, to discuss five popular and unique aroids to try growing this summer! Enid is just such a well of knowledge on more unusual aroids and she shares some more unique types that we might want to introduce to our collections. This episode is definitely geared towards you curious collector plant parent types out there, so let's dive in!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:49] Free membership to the Garden Society? Yes, please!
[02:47] Enid’s book and NSE Tropicals updates
[05:40] Why are aroids so popular? Why are aroids the perfect beginner houseplants?
[08:31] What makes houseplants ‘rare’?
[11:59] Aside from NSE Tropicals, where can you source 'rare' plants?
[13:11] What you need to know when sourcing plants internationally
[15:57] What do people need to look out for when buying plants abroad?
[17:04] Where to get the best seeds for your spring garden!
[18:27] The best and wide-variety selection of plant tones and fertilizers for you
[20:28] Unique Aroid #1: Philodendron tortum
[23:57] The magic of watching a houseplant leaf unfurl
[24:43] Unique Aroid #2: Philodendron bernardopazii
[27:01] Unique Aroid #3: Anthurium veitchii
[29:28] What kind of light do these rare aroids need?
[29:58] Unique Aroid #4: Anthurium ‘Selby’s Silver’
[32:10] Shoutout to Bloom and Grow listener, Joey!
[34:36] Unique Aroid #5: Philodendron distantilobum
[36:54] Bonus plant: The Offolteranium
[37:57] Enid shares the inspiration behind her book Welcome to the Jungle
[38:59] Where to get Enid’s book
[41:16] Take advantage of this sweet Growing Joy offer!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Welcome to the Jungle: Rare Tropical Houseplants to Collect, Grow, and Love, book by Enid Offolter

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Enid:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Preserving Asian Heritage Through Seeds and Stories

Tue, 3 May 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Seeds do not only provide us with food to eat, but they represent the future and also allow us to reflect on our history. They are heirlooms, a connection to our ancestors and their stories. In this episode, on Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate stories of Asian culture and connection to nature and food through seeds, with YC Miller from Kitazawa Seed Company. YC walks us through the importance of preserving our heritage through seeds and the stories we share and tells us heartwarming stories from Kitazawa customers on how a simple vegetable can carry so much family history and pride. Let's dive in!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:49] Have you heard about this MAJOR announcement?
[02:34] How YC became the plant person she is today
[05:24] How growing food can reconnect us with our heritage
[09:56] Maria shares her family’s history with food as Italian immigrants
[12:28] How two brothers built Kitazawa Seed Company
[14:32] Why preserving seed diversity is an important part of the immigrant experience
[17:44] Where and how does Kitazawa source their seed varieties?
[22:45] The best potting mixes for your spring garden!
[24:25] Get your spring garden started with high-quality seeds
[26:00] What are the differences between Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino eggplants?
[28:05] What does the process of bringing a new seed variety to the market look like for Kitazawa Seed Company?
[28:35] Touching stories on food and Asian heritage from Kitazawa’s customers
[32:51] Different Asian recipes for bitter melon
[36:21] YC’s recommended Kitazawa varieties for starters
[38:01] How to grow gourds in your garden
[41:00] YC’s current favorite plant to grow and their favorite recipes with it!
[44:20] Why you need to grow pak choi or bok choy
[45:41] Where to get in touch with YC and Kitazawa

Mentioned in our conversation:

Kitazawa Seed Co
Eggplants (Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino)
Korean peppers
Perilla plant
Okinawan bitter gourd or Okinawan bitter melon
Herbs (Chinese leeks, Thai basil, bunching onion)
Gourds (wax gourds and bottle gourds)
Japanese cucumbers

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow YC:

Email: seeds@kitazawaseed.com

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Beginner's Guide to Greenhouses

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

I feel like there comes a time in every plant parent's life when we start to get really curious and excited about having a dedicated space for all of our plants. If you are an outdoor gardener, the promise of a greenhouse for seed starts and overwintering plants is even more promising! I’ve had several different moments in life where I’ve Googled greenhouse kits but never crossed the finish line due to the overwhelming and somewhat intimidating aspect of installing them properly (and the price tag). Hopefully, this episode will set you up for success if you feel like you’re ready to take the leap of installing a greenhouse - whether it's a small kit, or a large structure in your backyard - consider this episode a beginners guide to building the greenhouse of your dreams!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:49] The inspirations behind this episode!
[04:13] What to expect from this episode
[06:15] How Patrick became the plant person he is today
[10:10] Patrick shares his greenhouse setup
[11:35] Things to consider before planning a greenhouse
[12:28] Why do you need a license for your personal greenhouse?
[15:00] What direction should a greenhouse face?
[16:44] Pros and cons of different greenhouse materials
[20:29] DIY greenhouse vs greenhouse kit
[23:41] Patrick’s advice when exploring greenhouse kit options
[25:07] What to consider for your greenhouse flooring
[27:02] Where to get healthy pre-grown plants
[28:13] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products
[30:52] Different types of greenhouses and ventilation settings
[33:08] How to calculate greenhouse heating and ventilation requirements
[34:31] Different types of fans and vents for greenhouse ventilation
[37:28] How do you run power to your greenhouse?
[39:16] How much does a good beginner greenhouse cost?
[42:33] Common misconceptions about greenhouses
[43:37] How greenhouses help in pest control and management
[45:45] Troubleshooting greenhouse ventilation and humidity issues
[46:40] What is the ideal temperature for a greenhouse?
[47:53] Patrick’s advice for greenhouse beginners
[50:12] Greenhouse #1: Amy’s apartment-deck greenhouse in cold Massachusetts
[53:27] Greenhouse #2: Tiffany’s indoor greenhouse for 200+ plants
[59:28] Greenhouse #3: Kristin’s fully-customized permanent greenhouse from a kit
[01:05:48] Greenhouse #4: Eric’s Instagrammable East Nash Greenhouse with recycled windows
[01:11:56] Where to get university-level horticulture education for your greenhouse preparations!
[01:12:41] How to pre-order Growing Joy

Mentioned in our conversation:

Patrick's other blogs: Sublime Succulents & Self-Sustaining Ecosystem
Domino Magazine article: How a Stylist DIY-ed Her Dream Greenhouse From a Prefab Kit

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow this episode's guests:

Patrick // greenhouseinfo.com : Greenhouse Info | Email

Andi and Eric // East Nashville Greenhouse : Instagram

Kristin // Tending West : Instagram | Newsletter | Website

Tiffany // plantmahmah : Instagram | Email

Amy Lefavour : Instagram

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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I Want to Hear YOUR Story: Join the #GrowingJoyChallenge

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, in celebration of the launch of my new book, Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants), which is about my personal journey with plants, I want to celebrate YOUR stories on launch day. Growing Joy is not just about my personal journey with my plants, it's about the thousands of stories I have heard from listeners about how plants have helped them heal, grow and find more joy. This is your official invitation to join the #GrowingJoyChallenge and share YOUR story with the world. Tune in for the details!

Submit your stories here by April 30th!

In this episode:

[00:37] What plants mean to Maria
[00:57] Why Growing Joy is about YOU
[01:57] How you can share your story with the world!
[04:36] In-depth tutorials for the #GrowingJoyChallenge
[00:57] How to pre-order Growing Joy
[05:39] Let’s cultivate more joy in the world!

Submit your stories here by April 30th!

Growing Joy Pre-Order Link

by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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What is Seed Scarification? // Knowledge Nugget #3

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Growing your own plants from seeds is one of the most gratifying experiences in the garden. Watching a tiny seed become a full-grown plant just gives you the most amazing feeling as a plant parent. However, seed starting is a whole different science and practice on its own and requires special soil, different care, grow lights and water monitoring, and interesting practices to make sure that your seeds actually sprout: seed scarification is one of those practices that may seem intimidating, but takes your seed starting game into a whole different level. Leslie Halleck, my plant friend and Bloom and Grow Garden Society's resident horticulturist, gives us the know-how behind seed scarification in this Knowledge Nugget!

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In this episode we learn:

[01:29] How to access Leslie Halleck’s planty lectures
[02:59] What is seed scarification for?
[04:16] Different ways to scarify a seed
[04:32] Mistakes to avoid when doing seed scarification
[07:05] Your open invitation to the Garden Society!

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PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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Bulb Basics with Jenks Farmer

Tue, 5 Apr 2022 08:00:00 +0000

They produce some of the most desirable flowers we know and love, but a bulb can be very confusing to an amateur gardener. We look at this little stub and think, "Seriously, a daffodil is going to sprout up from this thing?" As tropical houseplant growers, bulbs can be a totally different game when it comes to caring, with different sets of tips to be mindful of. Jenks Farmer is a bulb expert and lifelong gardener and in this ep, he joins us to break down everything you need to know about bulbs. Let's dive in!

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In this episode we learn:

[00:49] Growing Joy updates and invitation
[02:04] Watering technique tips and water quality lecture
[04:05] How Jenks became the bulb expert he is today
[07:35] What is a bulb? How do we identify bulbs?
[11:52] Listener question: When is the best time to plant alliums? Will the plants reproduce over time?
[12:43] Where can you find bulbs in nature?
[14:33] Beginner terms: Annuals vs perennials
[15:10] What is a naturalized garden?
[16:29] When do you plant different kinds of bulbs?
[18:35] How does ground temperature trigger bulb growth?
[19:03] How do you force bulbs indoors?
[23:14] How do bulbs grow? Why do we need to divide bulbs?
[24:53] The best gardening products for any gardening situation
[26:14] Where to get pre-grown plants and seeds for your spring garden
[27:47] Why do we need to dry bulbs? How do you store dry bulbs?
[28:16] How do you store caladiums?
[31:04] Jenks’ indoor bulb recommendations
[32:00] Do all bulbs go dormant?
[34:21] How do you plant bulbs? Do bulbs have to be planted right side up?
[35:32] What is the ideal soil mixture for bulbs? How often should you fertilize bulbs?
[37:08] How deep should bulbs be planted? Why is depth important?
[39:17] Jenks’ bulb recommendations for every season!
[42:05] Why does Jenks like crinums?
[42:50] Where do crinums originate from?
[44:11] Where can crinums grow in the country?
[45:29] Why Jenks wrote a book on crinums
[48:04] Where to find Jenks online
[50:01] Maria’s gardening plans update and spring announcements

Mentioned in our conversation:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
The Crinum Book, book by Augustus Jenks Farmer
Funky Little Flower Farm, book by Augustus Jenkins Farmer
Deep-Rooted Wisdom: Skills and Stories from Generations of Gardeners, book by Augustus Jenkins Farmer
Jenks Farmer’s bulb and containers

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Jenks:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Limey's Grand Adventure // Flying My Lime Tree to Florida

Tue, 29 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This might be the CRAZIEST thing I’ve done with my plants but this has also been such an extraordinary experience as I fly our lime tree, Limey, from New York to Florida! I am so excited to share the experience with you and talk about the citrus alley Mama Failla and I made in their beautiful Florida home.

I document the entire journey of flying with a plant including the thought process, plant modifications, legal processes and the next few days' updates in an Youtube Vlog: https://youtu.be/jtelXljM1gk

Let me know which part is your fave!

Pre-order Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)

Join the Bloom & Grow Garden Society

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How to Start a Product Based Planty Business plus a big announcement with Samantha from Hemleva

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, this has been in the works for almost two years and I am so excited to finally be able to share it with you! Two YEARS of quietly working on a very special project with our guest, and not being able to talk about it! We will dive more into this project in the second half of this episode, but more importantly, we get to know Samantha Leung. Samantha, the founder of the well-known plant brand Hemleva, is the real deal. She's so freaking smart, she's kind, she's generous, she's honest, and she’s built her business with such integrity and hustle and grown a thriving business that creates botanically inspired products. In this episode, we are so lucky to be joined by Samantha to learn how she got to where she is now, and I’ve been lucky enough to have gotten to know her offline over the last year because we’ve been working on a very special project! Find out what it is in the ep!

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In this episode we learn:

[01:27] What to expect from this episode
[04:26] How one woman’s jewelry collection was used to make diplomatic history
[05:41] What was Samantha’s first-ever product?
[06:28] How Samantha got started with pins
[08:44] Why are plants important to Samantha?
[10:28] How plants carry our memories with them
[12:26] Where did Hemleva get its name from and what does it mean?
[15:10] What was Hemleva’s first year in business like?
[17:50] How did Samantha go about Hemleva’s logistics and business requirements?
[20:04] What other crafts has Samantha tried building a business for?
[23:02] Maria shares some of the challenges as a woman entrepreneur
[26:15] How does Samantha handle her entrepreneur days?
[27:42] Where to get the high-quality vegetable plants this season
[29:17] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products for you and your pets
[31:47] How does Samantha ideate, develop, and execute a product?
[33:56] What tools does Samantha use to create a product?
[35:27] How does Samantha source people and businesses she works with?
[37:49] What does the process or ordering samples look like for Hemleva?
[39:36] How does Samantha decide her inventory?
[41:00] How profit margins differ in different business categories
[44:19] In what ways is Hemleva structured to give back to different organizations?
[45:57] What does One Percent for the Planet do?
[47:56] What does work-life balance look like for Samantha?
[50:47] How to figure out your own workflow and work schedule
[52:37] How baking helps Samantha with her focus
[54:24] Maria and Samantha’s very special collaboration!
[56:26] Asking Samantha to illustrate the book cover
[01:00:20] Samantha shares her experience illustrating her first book
[01:03:32] Growing Joy merch collection with Hemleva!
[01:04:44] Your official invitation to the Growing Joy launch celebration
[01:06:09] How to join the Growing Joy giveaway for a free book!
[01:07:54] Samantha shares a juicy sneak peek of Growing Joy
[01:10:56] Sisterhood of The Traveling Plants
[01:11:58] How Samantha inspires Maria
[01:13:29] Maria’s reflections on writing a book and running a podcast

Mentioned in our conversation:

PRE-ORDER LINK: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Folia Collective
BAGR Episode: How to Start a Plant Shop with Folia Collective
Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewelry Box, book by Madeleine Albright
You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, book by Jen Sincero
Charity Navigator
Chinese for Affirmative Action
1% for the Planet

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Samantha:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Rubber Plant Care Guide: The Overlooked Ficus with Raffaele from Ohio Tropics

Tue, 8 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Rubber plants don't get enough credit in the tropical plant world. These humble plants are always available at the garden center but tend to get overlooked for some of our sexier Instagram-worthy plants. In this episode, we will dive into the many reasons why rubber plants are fantastic plants with Raffaele of Ohio Tropics. The first part is going to be an overview of general rubber plant care and different types of rubber plants, and then the second half is actually frequently asked questions that Raffaele answers and troubleshoots. Welcome, plant friend!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:43] Maria’s plant and personal updates
[02:12] Introducing Raffaele from Ohio Tropics
[03:14] Your invitation to a free 10-day virtual garden festival!
[03:58] What to expect from this rubber plant episode
[06:40] How Raffael became the plant parent he is today
[10:06] What is a rubber plant?
[11:26] Do rubber trees produce latex?
[12:53] Where can you find rubber plants in nature?
[14:33] What are the different types and varieties of rubber plants?
[18:54] How to water rubber plants
[21:27] Raffaele’s watering tip using a turkey baster
[23:21] How much sunlight does a rubber plant need?
[27:35] Are rubber plants low-light plants?
[28:35] What kind of soil mix is good for rubber plants?
[30:52] Where to get pre-grown plants and seeds for your spring garden
[32:09] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products
[34:49] How to fertilize rubber plants
[37:11] Rubber Plant FAQ #1: Why is my rubber plant not growing?
[39:03] Rubber Plant FAQ #2: How do I get my rubber plant to branch and be bushier instead of taller?
[39:51] What is the air layering propagation method?
[44:15] Rubber Plant FAQ #3: Why are my new leaves smaller than the older ones?
[45:32] Rubber Plant FAQ #4: Why are my rubber plant leaves dropping?
[48:20] Why overwatering can cause issues to your plant (in ways you might not expect)
[49:12] Rubber Plant FAQ #5: My plant looks healthy, but the branches are all over the place; why is this happening?
[50:26] Rubber Plant FAQ #6: What are the tiny white spots on my rubber plant?
[51:26] Rubber Plant FAQ#7: Why are the edges of my variegated rubber plant browning?
[54:09] Rubber Plant FAQ #8: My rubber plant has aerial roots, but do they grow better in slightly cooler conditions?
[55:18] Raffaele’s recommendations of the best rubber plant varieties for beginners
[57:35] What Raffaele’s book Houseplant Warrior is about!
[59:41] Where to connect with Raffaele
[01:01:52] Upgrade your plant education with these two events!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Houseplant Warrior: 7 Keys to Unlocking the Mysteries of Houseplant Care, book by Raffaele Di Lallo
The Great Grow Along Virtual Garden Festival

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Raffaele:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Do plants see brightness? What is PAR? // Knowledge Nugget #2

Tue, 1 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Has the concept of “bright indirect light” ever confused you? Or how to measure your light in your home in general? Or how to figure out when you need to supplement with grow lights, and if you get grow lights, how to set your plants up for success under them? Light is probably the most confusing topic when it comes to our plants. It was definitely my biggest pain point when I was starting out as I had so many plants in what I thought was indirect light… but it was actually extremely low light. Lucky for us, Leslie Halleck, my plant friend and Bloom and Grow Garden Society's resident horticulturist, breaks down brightness and PAR for us in this Knowledge Nugget. Let's dive in!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:19] Is light your biggest pain point in your plant care?
[00:54] What to expect from this mini-series episode
[01:25] What are Knowledge Nuggets?
[03:26] Why brightness is not important
[04:06] What is PAR and why is it important to your plants?
[05:13] Which spectrums of light are optimal for photosynthesis?
[06:22] Why do plants grow best in red light?
[07:11] Where to get the best horticulturist-led plant education
[08:34] What the next Node of Knowledge lecture is about

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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How to Care for Carnivorous Plants Indoors

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We’ve likely all had some sort of run-in with a carnivorous plant: maybe bringing one of those little venus flytraps at the hardware store home to realize you had no idea how to care for it, maybe marveling at the wide array of carnivorous plants at your local botanical garden, and maybe even getting to see a fly land on one, or maybe it’s just knowing the man-eating plant Audrey II in the musical Little Shop of Horrors. However you’ve engaged with carnivorous plants, you’ve likely figured out that they are really a whole subsect of plants of their own, require very specific care, and might get you if you don't care for them correctly. Lucky for us, we are joined by carnivorous plant expert Damon from California Carnivores for an incredibly informative episode about everything we need to know about these mysterious, hungry plants!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[01:02] Introducing Damon
[03:22] Damon’s history with carnivorous plants
[08:24] What are carnivorous plants? What characteristics make up a carnivorous plant?
[14:25] Where to find carnivorous plants in the wild
[16:14] Why conservation of carnivorous plants is a must
[18:50] How long have carnivorous plants been around?
[20:09] Damon shares what he thinks of Little Shop of Horrors musical
[22:19] The right kind of water for carnivorous plants (and how to identify them in a store!)
[28:08] The best carnivorous plants to grow indoors (Venus flytrap, pitcher plants, butterworts)
[31:36] Are you planning your garden already?
[33:32] Level up your plant education with a horticulturist!
[35:43] What is the best growing media for carnivorous plants?
[38:22] Why you shouldn’t use terracotta pots for your carnivorous plants
[40:16] How to use grow lights on carnivorous plants
[42:13] Should you fertilize carnivorous plants?
[43:06] How to feed your Venus flytrap and Cape sundews
[46:53] Fertilizing your pitcher plants
[49:35] How much humidity do carnivorous plants need?
[50:48] How to make your Venus flytrap go dormant
[52:11] Can you fertilize your carnivorous plants even if they’re catching bugs?
[52:58] Troubleshooting carnivorous plants soil mix
[53:39] Taking care of your Mexican butterworts
[55:29] Damon’s recommended beginner carnivorous plants
[57:26] Should you still buy Venus flytraps even when they’re not sustainably sourced?
[59:53] Where to buy carnivorous plants and access educational resources
[01:02:00] Just a note about peat moss
[01:02:42] Maria’s winter updates

Mentioned in our conversation:

The Savage Garden
Wetlands Reclamation Act
Maxsea All-Purpose Nutrient Fertilizer
California Carnivores YouTube video: Winter Dormancy for Temperate Plants in Cold Climates

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Excited for this year's growing season? Territorial Seed Co recently launched their Kitchen Counter collection, a selection of vegetables specifically bred to grow and produce in small spaces and lower light—perfect for indoor cultivation. From Artichoke through Zucchini, they have everything you need to grow your best garden ever! And with over 40 years of experience, you know they have seeds and plants you can trust. They are offering an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order. Order now at territorialseed.com

Bloom and Grow Garden Society

The Bloom and Grown Garden Society is the premium tier of the Garden Party Platform, rooted in high-quality education and community. I’ve partnered with our Horticulturist in Residence Leslie Halleck to bring monthly “Node of Knowledge” plant science lectures, monthly “Ask our Horticulturist Anything” office hours, and Growing Joy Community Calls with me. Treat yourself to an annual membership for the holidays or gift to your crazy plant friends! Learn more at jointhegardensociety.com.

Follow Damon:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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New Mini-Series: Knowledge Nuggets! What is a Peperomia Inflorescence? Ep 1

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a new mini-series for Bloom & Grow Radio: Knowledge Nuggets. They will be 5-10 minute episodes that show up once a month, in addition to our regular episodes, and will highlight one "nugget" of plant nerd education taken from the Node of Knowledge Plant Science lectures Leslie Halleck gives in the Garden Society. These lectures are so good, I couldn't help sharing a teeny bit with you!

Episode one is a snippet from our AHAs (Ask Our Horticulturist Anything) where members can hop on a zoom call with Leslie and troubleshoot their plant collections with her.

Do you remember the first time one of your peperomia grew an inflorescence or flower? Have you ever seen one before? I remember the first time when my watermelon peperomia threw off a ton of inflorescence, these weird spikey things popped out of the plant and I had no idea what they were. In the first episode of Knowledge Nuggets, Leslie Halleck is giving you insight into what these spikey things are and more importantly, what we need to know about them when they show up in our collections. Let's get learnin'!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

Stop struggling with your plant collection and start THRIVING with he Bloom and Grow Garden Society. Expert led houseplant & gardening education with a community of plant friends… at your fingertips.

When you join, you'll gain full access to the Garden Party Community Platform and App PLUS monthly plant care lectures with Horticulturist in Residence Leslie Halleck, monthly office hours with Leslie to troubleshoot your personal plant care issues and monthly Growing Joy Calls with Maria to develop our community of Society Members and explore the plant/person connection.

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:40] What to expect from this episode
[03:54] Troubleshooting your plant problems
[04:57] What is an inflorescence and why do peperomias have them?
[05:27] How to prune peperomia inflorescence
[06:06] How to keep variegation in plants / how to grow a fuller, bushier plant
[08:05] Where to get personalized plant coaching from a horticulturist

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Exploring the Past, Present and Future of Black People in Horticulture with Colah from Black int he Garden

Tue, 8 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

It's been such a joy having fellow podcasters join me in the pod as they never disappoint and have such wonderful insights about plant parenthood and plantrepreneurship. I met this episode's guest in 2020 and figured it was time to have her back on to catch up and explore a concept she’ll be tackling on the next season of her show: the past, present, and future of black people in horticulture. Colah has created an amazing brand called Black in the Garden that has blown up in the last couple of years, and created a space for so many people to feel seen within the plant community. Tune in as we share an important conversation about historic black plant people and their rich yet less discovered contributions to plant society.

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:57] Maria’s plant updates
[05:30] Who is Colah and why she started her podcast, Black in the Garden
[09:16] How has Colah’s plant collection changed through her personal transitions?
[15:07] What it’s like to have a plant-sitter
[16:52] Reevaluating the lesson of resiliency as a Black woman
[19:16] Moving forward and seeking opportunities presented to you
[22:04] Letting go of things that don’t bring you joy
[23:11] Why Wangari Mathai is Colah’s most inspirational historic Black figure
[25:26] Making the diaspora of Black people known and accessible
[29:09] Where to get the best seeds for this growing season
[30:45] Indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet
[32:30] Jerome the Gnome and Colah’s update on inclusivity in garden products
[34:26] Black representation in media and podcasting
[38:59] Colah shares recent recognitions for Black people in horticulture
[41:51] Horticulturist Abra Lee and her mission to uncover the history of Black garden clubs and societies
[46:08] Ideating and self-publishing the Black in the Garden Coloring Book
[49:58] Acknowledging white privilege in horticulture
[52:52] Why Colah is exploring the past, present, and future in Black in the Garden podcast
[55:41] What’s next for Colah and Black in the Garden in 2022
[01:00:50] How to level up your plant parent skills this year!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Bloom and Grow Radio YouTube video Flower Preservation Unboxing
You Grow, Gurl!: A Lush Guide to Plant Parenthood by Christopher Griffin
Bloom and Grow Radio podcast episode Lessons from Plants from 2021 with Beronda Montgomery
Mashable’s article on Juliet Sargeant, “First female black designer in 103 years of Chelsea Flower Show wins gold”
Website: Abra Lee / Conquer the Soil
Colah's tree planting initiative: Underground Arborist

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Excited for this year's growing season? Territorial Seed Co's got you covered with high-quality seeds and plants (over 2,000 varieties) that are tried and tested on their 75-acre farm! From Artichoke through Zucchini, they have everything you need to grow your best garden ever! And with over 40 years of experience, you know they have seeds and plants you can trust. They are offering an exclusive discount just for listeners of Bloom & Grow Radio, use code GROW10 to get 10% off your first order. Order now at territorialseed.com

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Colah:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Interior Design Trends and Houseplants with Betsy from Affordable Interior Design

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Houseplants and interior design: you’d think these two passions would go together like two peas in a pod, but they can sometimes be at war with each other. We can find ourselves desperately wanting to style plants in rooms with no light, or getting overwhelmed with figuring out how to make our homes look planty and not cluttered. Many plant people don't know the first thing about interior design trends, and many interior designers don't know the first thing about plant care (even if they want to have plants in their designs). Luckily for us, I recently met Betsy, of the Affordable Interior Design podcast, and we decided to huddle up and see how we can match our compatible but different skill sets together and came up with this collaborative episode! Betsy breaks down various design styles, and I match plants that would suit those aesthetics. It’s a super fun chat that I hope will leave you ready to elevate your home and grow more joy in your lives!

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In this episode we learn:

[01:11] What to expect from this episode
[04:40] A little info on Maria’s design style
[05:41] The importance of deliberate plant corners
[07:32] How Betsy became the interior designer she is today
[09:59] Why people feel intimidated by interior design
[12:22] How interior design and plant care can be similar
[14:42] Tip #1: Don’t be afraid to go big!
[16:43] Tip #2: The rule of thirds // the rule of odd numbers
[18:47] Tip #3: How to design a bookshelf
[22:35] Is color-blocking your books still in?
[25:33] How to prevent plants from overgrowing in spaces on your shelf
[26:56] What is bohemian style and how to execute it?
[31:40] How many colors can you have in a room?
[34:14] How do you mix and match different textures effectively?
[35:09] The best indoor and outdoor gardening products
[36:13] Where to get quality seeds for this year’s garden
[37:55] Incorporating plants into your boho home
[39:09] Modern vs contemporary design styles
[41:17] What is minimalism?
[42:44] How to achieve clean lines in your home
[44:18] Adding color to your contemporary home
[46:37] The best plants for your clean lines home
[48:54] What is glam style and its common components?
[53:13] How to achieve a sophisticated beach coastal style
[56:57] Adding plants to your beach coastal home
[59:49] The principles of rustic design // farmhouse interior
[01:02:45] What plants are fit for your farmhouse style?
[01:05:51] Is Scandinavian design considered contemporary?
[01:08:06] Why plants are popular interior design assets today
[01:10:44] Maria’s closing remarks

Mentioned in our conversation:

Find Your Interior Design Style personality quiz

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Territorial Seed Company

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Podcast

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Streamlining and Simplifying Houseplant Care / Checking in with guys from the Plant Daddy Pod

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year, plant friends! I hope you had great holidays and like me, are looking forward to a fresh start in 2022. In the first episode of Season 7, I invited some of my favorite planty podcasters back: Stephen and Matthew of the Plant Daddy Podcast, for a really fun conversation inspired by streamlining and simplifying our houseplant care routines. This convo is really rooted in reflecting on 2021 and learning from the transitions we all went through and these guys are just so lovely, so insightful, and thoughtful about their approach to plant care. They share plant care efficiency tips that I think we can all adapt to our own plant care routines!

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In this episode we learn:

[00:35] Happy new year, plant friends!
[03:36] Stephen shares the transitions he and his collection went through in 2021
[07:28] Matthew’s life and plant collection updates
[14:48] How plant rack systems work // Tray Method
[17:13] How to group plants in your plant rack
[17:40] Different ways of watering plants efficiently
[23:42] Stephen shares his plant rack setup
[25:00] The biggest change Matthew applied to his plant care
[27:25] 3 tips to maintaining your urban jungle with thriving plants
[29:34] Plant care efficiency tip: hang plants by the window!
[30:56] How much light do your bookcase plants need?
[33:02] Where to get the best seeds for this growing season
[34:07] What you’ll get when you join the Garden Society!
[36:01] Maria’s experience maintaining her plants through four different home environments
[37:38] Acclimating your plants to varying growth conditions
[38:30] Why grow lights are great investments
[39:54] What Matthew’s plant care routine looks like today
[40:59] How Stephen engages with his plants
[43:24] How your plant parent personality changes with your plant collection
[47:58] What’s your favorite aspect of your plant care routine?
[50:22] What are you not liking about your plant care routine recently?
[52:53] Matthew and Stephen share their plant intentions for 2022
[54:27] Maria’s 2022 plant intentions
[56:57] Where to find the Plant Daddy Pod

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Bloom and Grow Garden Society

Follow the Plant Daddy Podcast:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

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Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Bonus episode: Plant Inspired Meditation for the Start of 2022

Thu, 6 Jan 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Hi Plant Friends, our official first episode of Season 7 of BAGR starts next week with the return of the guys from the Plant Daddy Podcast for a great talk about streamlining houseplant care in 2022, but since it’s the first week of 2022, I wanted to share a sweet moment with you that we recently had on a Growing Joy Call in the Bloom & Grow Garden Society: a 3 minute meditation, on the turn of the year, through the eyes of our plants.

It’s just a little something I’m sharing in hopes you can carve out 5 minutes of time this week to get cozy, sit with your plants, listen, reflect and get excited for 2022.

If meditation, visualization or general planty cheesiness isn’t your thing… skip this episode and meet us back here on Tuesday Jan 11th for a highly informative episode to celebrate the launch of the new season!

If you are interested in joining us in Bloom & Grow Virtual Garden Society, visit community.bloomandgrowradio.com to sign up! Next live lecture is this Wednesday January 12th and it’s a Seed Starting Intensive for Vegetables, Flowers AND Indoor Plants! The next Growing Joy Lecture will be about Sowing Seeds of Intention for the 2022 on Jan 18th. All calls get recorded and live in the platform for your binging delights :)

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Finding Joy through Plants in a Season of Transition: Reflecting on 2021

Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

When I think back on this last year, transition is the word that comes to mind. We are literally transitioning into a new year, but I'm sure everyone went through some form of transition this year: a new home, family additions and losses, job changes, and more. And as we grow through those transitions, our plant collection evolves too. I personally went through a tremendous transition this year and my plant collection and plant parent personality completely shifted. These transitions in my plant parenthood brought up a lot for me: feelings of shame, failure, or almost a rigidity to stick with what I used to do. In moving through this transition, I found some really helpful practices and concepts that helped me ebb, flow, and grow that I wanted to share with you today. So, this episode is rather different than our other episodes: it’s highly personal and I get into the nitty-gritty of some behind-the-scenes of this growing business and my life. No ads, no interviews, no guests—just checking in!

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In this episode we learn:

[00:56] Why transition is an important conversation today
[02:26] How Maria’s plant parent personality and plant collection have changed this year
[03:37] What to expect from this year-end episode
[05:45] Maria’s questions to YOU, the listener
[08:03] How the Bloom and Grow listener community inspires Maria and the podcast
[11:00] Why plants improve our lives
[11:30] Updates on the Bloom and Grow Radio podcast
[13:40] The different transitions Maria went through this year
[15:05] Planty practices to find more joy and stillness in your life
[15:16] Why you should have your morning coffee with your plants
[18:13] The benefits of engaging with plants during the day
[20:23] Shifting how you see plant care and your plant number
[22:09] Explore your plant curiosity
[23:02] Use planty affirmations and some of Maria’s personal examples
[25:44] Maria’s big announcement!
[30:27] A very special (and secret) snippet

Mentioned in the conversation:

Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) pre-order links: Amazon | Bookshop.org

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Wedding Flower Crash Course for To Be Weds / My Botanically Inspired Wedding Series

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

There is so much power in flowers, plant friends. A flower is so much more than a bloom, but an expression, a connection to something deeper. Whatever our known or unknown bias for blooms is, flowers are little joy bombs just waiting to be cut or grown. It’s undeniable that flowers also can play a huge part in a wedding day: from the ceremonial bouquet and corsage to the ceremony and reception flowers can be used to enliven a wedding day, and also express a part of yourself through your choices. But as a tropical foliage lover, I was actually tremendously out of my depth when it came to understanding what went into wedding florals, or flowers in general when I was planning our wedding. As wedding florals are also a huge investment, I found myself going through a little wedding floral crash course of my own and with my florist, Corina of The Botaniste. In this episode, Corina and I share all things wedding flowers so that you know where to start come your wedding planning!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

The Bloom and Grow Garden Society is your one-stop-shop for plant parenthood growth. When you join you'll gain full access to the Garden Party Community Platform and App PLUS monthly plant care lectures with Horticulturist in Residence Leslie Halleck, monthly office hours with Leslie to troubleshoot your personal plant care issues and monthly Growing Joy Calls with Maria to develop our community of Society Members and explore the plant/person connection.

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[02:22] Introducing Corina
[04:16] What to expect of the last episode of My Botanically Inspired Wedding Series
[09:29] Corina shares her experiences planning wedding florals with couples
[10:33] Why Pinterest is every bride’s best friend AND worst enemy
[11:52] How Corina became a plant lady and how she started The Botaniste
[17:29] Corina’s biggest influences in floral styling
[18:18] What are current and upcoming trends for wedding flowers?
[19:46] What elements are there in a tablescape?
[22:28] Is there a difference between wedding flowers and event flowers?
[26:14] Maria shares her decision-making process with her wedding florals
[28:02] How flowers elevate any event
[29:26] How to preserve your wedding flowers
[31:00] What are the best and the worst flowers to have at your wedding?
[34:01] Which flower is an alternative to peonies?
[35:54] New rose varieties to try in your wedding flowers
[39:27] How to condition cut flowers
[41:23] How to keep cut hydrangeas from wilting
[42:58] Where to get the best organic indoor and outdoor gardening products
[44:12] Planning to grow from seeds this coming garden season?
[48:15] How to work with florists and where to start with your wedding flower planning
[52:33] Building a trusting relationship with your wedding florist
[55:08] Corina’s advice for couples planning to DIY their wedding
[58:51] Maria’s garland and greenery vision
[01:00:40] How to style a wedding with greenery
[01:03:38] Incorporating bud vases in your wedding
[01:07:55] Adding statement greenery to your wedding venue and reception
[01:12:49] What you should know about greenery
[01:14:38] Corina’s ultimate tip for wedding planners and contractors
[01:15:15] Corina’s current favorite flowers and combinations
[01:17:00] What Maria loved about blushing bride protea
[01:18:08] Where you can hire Corina as your florist
[01:20:25] Maria’s Wedding Series reflections

Mentioned in the conversation:

Check out Corina's video on how to arrange a big bridal bouquet!
Lush Magnolia Flower Preservation artist
DIY Wedding Copper Arbor blog
BAGR Episode: 3 Plant Inspired DIY Wedding Ideas that Live on After the Big Day
BAGR Episode: 26 Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Your Wedding
BAGR Blog: 26 Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Your Wedding

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

It’s time to start planning your garden and placing your seed orders! Territorial Seed Company has an unbelievable selection of seeds and plants to choose from to build the garden of your dreams all year, with sustainably-grown seeds for the best-tasting, best-producing, highest-quality vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Check out their amazing variety of seeds, plants, garden planners, and more at territorialseed.com and use code BLOOM10 to get 10% off your first order.

Espoma Organic

Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To learn more about their pet safe indoor and outdoor gardening products, visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Follow Corina:

The Botaniste Florida: Website | Instagram

The Botaniste East Hampton: Website | Instagram

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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26 Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Your Wedding / My Botanically Inspired Wedding Series

Tue, 7 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

From the moment I got engaged, and frankly, even before that, I knew that I wanted to have the plantiest wedding possible! My plants are a huge part of me and I wanted to incorporate that aspect into our wedding. I didn’t want my wedding to be houseplant-themed, but I wanted houseplants and nature to be woven into our day seamlessly, in a refined way that felt special. Katie O’Neil of Katydyd Events, our wedding planner, joins me in this episode to talk about the different ways we added plants to our wedding, and some that didn't make it but were totally great ideas! This is one of my most anticipated episodes—I literally waited two years!—and I can't wait to share everything with you.

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

Check out this episode's full blog with photos here!

In this episode we learn:

[00:28] Why Maria wanted a planty wedding
[04:40] Introducing Katie; Maria and Billy’s wedding angel
[10:36] Mama Failla’s wedding advice
[11:53] How Katie became the epic wedding planner she is today
[14:34] Maria’s biggest wedding advice for everyone!
[16:56] How plants have developed as a trend in the bridal industry
[17:58] Hoya kerrii as tablescape and wedding favor
[21:36] What questions to ask yourself when planning a wedding with plants
[22:56] Katie’s ultimate wedding planning goal
[23:45] Finding the balance between a plant-themed wedding and a you-themed wedding
[26:04] How to pick your wedding venue and Katie’s professional advice
[31:15] How to incorporate plants into your invitations and signages
[34:19] Using seed paper for your invitations
[35:25] Incorporating plants into your wedding dress and suit
[40:09] ‘Something blue’, wedding shoes, and floral hairpins
[43:37] Picking out your color palette and bridesmaid dresses
[44:36] Where to get your seeds for the upcoming growing season!
[46:58] What you’ll get when you join the Garden Society
[48:37] How to repurpose your bridal bouquet and your bridesmaids’ bouquet during the reception
[51:04] How to incorporate plants during the ceremony
[54:15] Leaf girl instead of flower girl? Yes, please!
[55:47] Why you should swap your rice toss for a lavender toss
[58:08] Fresh ideas for garlands at your reception
[01:00:05] Why it’s important to get the right florist!
[01:02:19] Other fun, creative ways to add plants into your wedding
[01:03:40] How to make the wedding green wall of your dreams
[01:07:11] What to prepare for when you have live plants as wedding favors
[01:08:11] Katie’s advice when doing DIY wedding pieces
[01:10:51] How to make your wedding flowers last beyond your big day
[01:12:35] How to incorporate macrame into your wedding
[01:16:35] Katie’s biggest advice for incorporating plants into your wedding
[01:20:53] Where you can hire Katie as your dream wedding planner!
[01:23:03] Where to get custom wedding timelines
[01:25:54] Maria’s post-wedding reflections

Mentioned in the conversation:

Check out the blog for this episode for a deeper dive into all of these ideas
Kara R. Modliszewski watercolor artist - Mad for Mod Studio
BHLDN
Fiber and Foliage macrame shop
Lush Magnolia Flower Preservation artist
Two Sturdy Oaks by Henry David Thoreau
DIY Wedding Copper Arbor blog
BAGR Episode: 3 Plant Inspired DIY Wedding Ideas that Live on After the Big Day

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Territorial Seed Company

Bloom and Grow Garden Society

Follow Katie:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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3 Plant Inspired DIY Wedding Ideas that Live On After the Big Day Uploaded

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Plant friends, I am so excited to finally bring you this planty wedding series, after almost two years of waiting! This month, I’m bringing you the Botanically Inspired Wedding Series on Bloom and Grow Radio, where we explore all aspects and intersections of weddings and plants. We have something for everyone in this series whether you love to DIY, are curious about the floral industry and how to make a great bouquet, or just really fun ways to incorporate houseplants into your wedding in unique exciting ways! In this first episode of the series, we share DIY projects that stretch a dollar, because all three projects we discuss can be repurposed in your home to live on forever! Let's get DIY-ing!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

For a step-by-step tutorial of the DIY copper arbor, click this link!

In this episode we learn:

[00:20] Introducing the Planty Wedding Series
[05:45] What to expect from this episode!
[07:13] Introducing Marianne
[08:10] How to use your wedding arbor during and after your wedding
[10:19] DIY wedding copper arbor level of difficulty
[12:05] How to customize your own wedding arbor
[14:30] Putting the arbor in place on your wedding day
[15:20] How to place flowers on your wedding arbor
[17:53] Where to get the plantiest gifts this holiday season!
[20:03] The planty home collection of your dreams
[22:09] The best filler flowers and star flowers for your wedding arbor
[25:56] Cheaper alternatives for copper pipes
[27:49] How to transition your wedding arbor into the garden
[32:30] The idea behind Maria’s wedding green wall
[34:41] How to add hanging planters to your green wall
[36:01] One of Maria’s favorite parts in their wedding!
[38:09] How to make sure your guests take home your wedding favors
[39:22] Where Maria sourced their 100 hoya hearts
[41:01] Maria’s tips for sourcing terracotta pots for your wedding
[42:14] What to expect when adding houseplants to your wedding
[45:58] Maria’s word to the wise for those looking at DIY wedding ideas
[47:36] Bonus DIY wedding tips and ideas!
[50:16] Planty Wedding Series next episodes!

Mentioned in the conversation:

HGTV Obsessed episode with Maria
DIY Wedding Arbor Tutorial
HGTV Obsessed Podcast
Troubleshooting my Wedding Hoya Heart Lighting with Leslie Halleck YouTube video
Little Prince of Oregon Nursery [discount code: BLOOM20 for 20% off]
Fiber and Foliage macrame shop
Lush Magnolia
Gridwall Panel
Hedge Wall Pieces (12) , (6)
Faux Ferns
Dried Ferns
Artificial Tropical Leaves

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Modern Sprout

WallyGrow

Check out WallyGrow's extremely sustainable Eco Planter and their Loop Planter-- the answer to all green wall and hanging planter problems (plus they are made out of recycled plastic)! They've recently launched a home line in partnership with exclusive prints from Living Pattern, with gorgeously planty dish towels, burp cloths, swaddles, and even pillowcases! WallyGrow is offering a limited-time 15% discount to BAGR listeners from November 30-December 7th, so take advantage of it while you can at wallygrow.com with code MARIAGIFTS15 at checkout.

Follow Marianne:

HGTV Obsessed Podcast

Follow Katie:

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Snake Plants 101 with Chris Satch

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Snake plants are completely underrated. These “low light-tolerant” plants are often thrown into dark corners, dusty offices, and bathrooms with no windows due to their notoriously hardy personalities, but there is so much more to this beautiful collection of plants than just their ability to survive. Their leaves come in the most mesmerizing shapes and I think they are one of the most giftable plants around because no matter who you are gifting, and what their lighting situation is, a snake plant will likely be able to handle it. That is why I'm excited to finally have a deep dive into this set of plants with no other than repeat-guest and plant friend, NYC Plant Doctor himself, Chris Satch!

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Society!

The Bloom and Grow Garden Society is your one-stop shop for plant parenthood growth. When you join you'll gain full access to the Garden Party Community Platform and App PLUS monthly plant care lectures with Horticulturist in Residence Leslie Halleck, monthly office hours with Leslie to troubleshoot your personal plant care issues and monthly Growing Joy Calls with Maria to develop our community of Society Members and explore the plant/person connection.

so you don't miss the amazing episodes we have coming up!

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast,

In this episode we learn:

[00:39] Why Maria LOVES snake plants
[04:55] Why snake plants are the most giftable plants
[06:06] Are snake plants Dracaena or Sansevieria?
[09:32] Where do you find snake plants in nature?
[10:06] Are snake plants low-light plants?
[11:08] The structure of a snake plant
[13:43] How snake plants photosynthesize
[18:02] How much light do snake plants need? Can you burn them?
[19:16] How often should you water snake plants?
[21:22] What your snake plant looks like when it needs watering
[23:24] How do you get a snake plant to flower?
[24:13] Do snake plants need fertilizer?
[26:23] Where to get sustainable hanging planters
[29:12] The best giftable planty products this season
[32:14] Chris’ confession about the best potting media for snake plants
[34:49] Maria’s confession about her first snake plants
[35:57] How to divide and repot snake plant pups
[38:00] How tall should a pup be before you separate them?
[41:23] Why do snake plants droop? How do you strengthen their leaves?
[43:33] Troubleshooting floppy snake plant leaves
[46:06] How do you get snake plants to be fuller?
[47:33] Chris’ favorite snake plant species
[52:28] Why you should wipe the dust off your snake plant leaves
[54:05] What life lessons can we learn from snake plants?

Mentioned snake plant species:

Sansevieria gracilis
Sansevieria fischeri
Sansevieria ‘Cleopatra’
Sansevieria kirkii var. pulchra. “Coppertone”
Sansevieria trifasciata “Bantel’s Sensation”
Sansevieria cylindrica
Sansevieria trifasciata “Moonshine”
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii'

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

WallyGrow

Check out WallyGrow's extremely sustainable Eco Planter and their Loop Planter-- the answer to all green wall and hanging planter problems (plus they are made out of recycled plastic)! They've recently launched a home line in partnership with exclusive prints from Living Pattern, with gorgeously planty dish towels, burp cloths, swaddles, and even pillowcases! WallyGrow is offering a limited-time 15% discount to BAGR listeners from November 9 to 23, so take advantage of it while you can at wallygrow.com with code MARIA15 at checkout.

Modern Sprout

Modern Sprout is on a mission to connect people and plants with their amazing assortment of smart app-enabled grow lights, indoor grow kits and candle kits, and amazing planty accessories that are highly giftable. They have something for everyone, whether it's an ultra beginner gardener or a plant enthusiast just looking to up their plant parenthood game. They are offering their biggest discounts of the year this Black Friday: 30% off their gorgeous and sleek grow lights, gift sets, and that watering can I’m always talking about. Check out modsprout.com for all their offerings and snag that Black Friday 30% off or get 15% off any other day this month with code BLOOM21.

Follow Chris:

Classes

Follow Maria and Bloom and Grow Radio:

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet!

Take the Bloom and Grow Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio

Tiktok: @bloomandgrowradio

Subscribe to the Bloom and Grow Youtube Show! /Bloomandgrowradio

Join the (free) Garden Club: www.bloomandgrowradio.com/garden-club

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Plantrepreneurship, Plant Styling and Planty Tiktok with Reagan Kastner

Tue, 9 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Plantrepreneurship, or entrepreneurship in the plant space, feels like it’s at an all-time high these days. With the massive shifts our society has gone through, people are feeling more drawn to plants and so many businesses are popping up designed to serve our plant community, and many members of our community are looking to transition into the world of plants professionally! I’ve noticed more and more plant consultants popping up on my social media feeds, and when I was thinking of an inspiring plantrepreneur to bring on this show, Celebrity Plant Stylist Reagan Kastner came to mind. I’ve had my eye on Reagan since she took #planttok or planty TikTok by storm earlier in 2020. Reagan is a serial entrepreneur with a really interesting career path and has used social media to her advantage to grow her planty business as a planty stylist and consultant. Listen to her plantrepreneurship journey below!

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In this episode we learn:

[00:34] Introducing Reagan
[03:56] Don’t have a degree in horticulture? You’re welcome here!
[06:06] How Reagan became the plant lady she is today
[07:41] Where Reagan’s plantrepreneurship began
[11:11] How did Reagan come up with the idea for Stylush?
[14:41] Being a plant influencer, a business owner, and a plant stylist all at the same time
[17:38] Who does Reagan turn to for business advice and resources?
[19:10] Reagan’s advice for your first-year plantrepreneurship
[22:09] How do you get started in the plant styling business?
[24:51] How to figure out your plant styling pricing
[25:38] What license do you need to buy wholesale plants?
[27:04] Where to get the best planty holiday gifts!
[30:21] How to install the green wall of your dreams (like Maria!)
[33:33] How to compute your hourly rate as a plant stylist
[37:59] What is Reagan’s relationship with social media regarding her brand?
[40:26] The importance of having the right tools for your business
[42:22] Should you keep a content calendar?
[45:33] What does Reagan’s hiring process look like? How big is her current team?
[47:20] How to get your first 50 clients as a plant stylist
[48:57] Where Reagan gets her resources for plant care and plant styling
[51:20] Why a simple business card can instantly elevate your business
[52:00] 3 tips for people who want to grow on TikTok
[54:44] Should you grow your plantrepreneurship on Instagram or TikTok?
[55:22] What’s next for Reagan?

Mentioned in our conversation:

You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, book by Jen Sincero

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Modern Sprout

WallyGrow

Check out WallyGrow's extremely sustainable Eco Planter and their Loop Planter-- the answer to all green wall and hanging planter problems (plus they are made out of recycled plastic)! They've recently launched a home line in partnership with exclusive prints from Living Pattern, with gorgeously planty dish towels, burp cloths, swaddles, and even pillowcases! WallyGrow is offering a limited-time 15% discount to BAGR listeners from November 9 to 23, so take advantage of it while you can at wallygrow.com with code MARIA15 at checkout.

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