A SELF-DESCRIBED plant expert has shared the three beginner purchases he or she recommends.
Christopher Griffin, also known as Plant Kween, has over 200 plants in his apartment and knows everything about keeping them alive and growing.
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Speak about Podcast from BBC Gardeners’ World Magazinethe Brooklyn influencer revealed the secret to their success.
After developing an interest in nature and plants through observing their grandmother in her garden, Plant Quince wanted to surround themselves with as much greenery as possible.
In their New York City skyscraper, they have filled every square meter with a foliage plant or a sturdy succulent.
“Technology [is] “It’s such a big part of our daily lives and that has great aspects, but it also separates us from the land and nature that surrounds us every day,” they explained.
“I have plants around me and they remind me that it is important to keep growing, that it is okay to remove the yellow leaves from your life and that I should drink enough.
“It gives me something to hold on to, it keeps me grounded, pun intended.”
They described going through “nine years of trial and error” but disputed the claim that some people have naturally green fingers.
“A green thumb means luck,” said Plant Kween, who explained that anyone can become a plant parent.
They suggested starting with something simple to develop your habits and improve your skills.
“I believe there are plants that are more adaptable and easier to care for,” they said.
“Interestingly enough, the pothos is number one on my list. If you can get your hands on one, honey, just give it a try.
“Let it boost your confidence to discover other plants you want to bring into your home.”
While they joked that the plant can handle neglect well, the plant expert added that pothos “loves to grow.”
“Depending on your lifestyle and where you live, you may have some difficulty caring for your pothos. That’s okay,” they added.
Plant Kween explained that pothos are so adaptable and long-lasting that they are considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including Hawaii.
Maintenance Tips for Plant Quince
The author of You Grow Girl shared some DIY tips they use to protect their houseplants.
- Neem oil can be used as an organic natural insecticide and pesticide.
- Stay out against aggressive chemicals.
- Peppermint spray can be used to naturally repel insects.
- Ground cinnamon in your potting soil to prevent insects from laying eggs.
- Cayenne pepper mixed with water can help keep insects off your plants.
- Alcohol wipes can be used to remove mold from your plant’s leaves.
“It’s just growing so well,” they said.
“If I hadn’t allowed myself to be curious, if I hadn’t taken that trip, I would never have discovered that it’s an invasive species.
“There are a lot of plants that we put in our spaces that in other countries would be considered weeds. We’d spend £50 on that plant, but in another country someone would want to get rid of it.”
Plant Kween also mentioned the Zanzibar Gems and Sanseveria as ideal for beginners.
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