5 tips for new plant parents

So you have decided to have a plant inside your home and it is your first time. I am not a professional botanist, but, according to my experience, here are 5 tips that might help:

#1: You might want to choose a plant that is easy to care for.

There are many plants out there and each of them have a different peculiarity. Some like a lot of water, others like a bit less. Some like the sunlight, others prefer to stay in the shadows. Succulents, Devil's Vine and Peace Lilies, for example, are indoor species that require little to no effort, as they only need water once a week.

#2: Use the right amount of water.

Overwatering your babies is one of the most common mistakes that beginners make. One tip to know if you have given your plant enough water is to use your fingers. If you touch the dirt and it comes out clean, it means the soil is too dry and it needs more watering. If you feel the soil is wet and your finger comes out with a bit of dirt, you are good to go.

#3: Watch your plants carefully.

Plants are living beings, you need to observe them and see their behavior. If leaves are wilting, it might be a sign they need more or less water. When you see yellow or dry leaves, make sure you cut them away to keep your plant healthy.

#4: Choose a name for your plant.

Plants beautify the environment, and studies show that giving them a name have positive psychological effects. My son normally names everything around him, including his plants. It's really cute and it makes them more familiar. They are part of the family, after all.

#5: Resilience is key.

You might not get it right the first time, but go ahead, cheer up and try again! Plants provide functional benefits, like lifting the mood, purifying the air and making you feel connected to nature. Remember: people don't live forever, and neither do plants.