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

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 BarWater Budget Calculator | Watershed Management GroupWater Harvesting 101 Book by Martha RetallickGrowing Joy 275: Water Saving Techniques for Your Garden with Noelle Johnson To help you get started with water harvesting,check out the full show notes and blog here for Martha's tips! Follow Martha:WebsiteInstagramNewsletterResearchLinkedInPodcast Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Quarto: Weekly Planner by the American Horticultural SocietyGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Sunken Gardens: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Freshwater Aquariums, book by Karen RandallFlorida Aquatic NurseriesAquatic Gardeners AssociationGH Kit & KH KitFluval Plant and Shrimp StratumSafe-T-Sorb Absorbent ClayKaren Randall's ScrapScape Do you want to learn more about Sunken Gardens?Check out the full show notes and blog to discover how aquatic plants can bring life and joy into your space! Follow Karen:Planted Aquarium WebsiteFacebookVivarium/Terrarium WebsitePlanted 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 MizejewskiVideos featuring Naturalist David MizejewskiBook David – Naturalist David MizejewskiGrowing Joy 308: Groundcovers That Work: Low-Maintenance Plants for Every Garden with Kathy Jentz For David's wildlife-friendly gardening practices,check out the full show notes and blog here! Follow David:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookTikTokLinkedIn Follow National Wildlife Federation:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookX Follow Garden for Wildlife by NWF:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.ManukoraGo 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 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 mentionedKLN Concentrate Rooting Hormone Struggling to keep your Hoya blooming all year round?Check out the full show notes and blog for expert tips on making your Hoyas grow successfully! Follow Doug:WebsiteYouTube 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Growing Joy 299: Houseplant Trends, Tips & Hot Takes: Live from the Southeast Plant ShowGrowing Joy 272: Beneficial Insects For Effortless Houseplant Pest Management with Jamie of DMV BeneficialsMake Your Own Moss Pole for Indoor Climbing PlantsHouseplant SOS Mini Course A little nervous about installing your trellis and tying your plants?Check out the full show notes and blog here for Ara's easy-to-follow guide! Follow Ara:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTikTok Thank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 isWhat photosynthesis isWhy light is important for plantsWhat the different colors of light do for plants and why “full spectrum” grow lights are so importantLumens vs PAR vs Kelvin = how to measure lightWhat the best choice of grow lights for indoor houseplants areDefining “bright indirect” for a grow lightPatreon Plant Friend and listener Questions! Mentioned in our conversation:Leslie's books: Gardening Under Lights and Plant Parenting: Easy Ways to Make New HouseplantsSoltech Solutions: soltechsolutions.comModern Sprout: modernsprout.comBloom and Grow Amazon Grow light Storefront: http://bit.ly/growlightep Wondering if your plants need grow lights this season?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to actually make them work for your plants! Follow Leslie:WebsiteInstagramTwitterPinterestFacebookYouTube 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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,check out the show notes and full blog here! Follow Becky:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebook Thank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicVisit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Quarto: The Square Foot Gardening PlannerPre-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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 them00:45:58] 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 SocietyBrussels BonsaiEisei-en Bonsai's YouTube video Sekka Hinoki from Simple MaterialBloom 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?Check out the full show notes and blog for the philosophy and basic care principles that make Bonsai a beautiful, lifelong practice! Follow Bjorn:WebsiteInstagramYouTube 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Interested in joining Maria on a retreat like this? Join the waitlist! http://growingjoywithmaria.com/retreatThree 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/hemlockIn 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:Hemlock NeversinkActivities & Experiences | Hemlock Neversink Hotel & SpaGrowing Joy 255: I Moved 80+ Plants Across the Country: Here's What I LearnedGrowing Joy 267: Create a Biophilic Office Space: Boost Your Workday Motivation by Adding These Plants to Your OfficeGrowing Joy 307: Earthing Explained: The Science of Grounding for Better Sleep, Less Pain, and More Energy with Dr. Gaétan ChevalierGathering Moss: A Natural and Cultural History of Mosses by Robin Wall KimmererOpal Want to do a digital detox but don't have the time?Check out the full show notes and blog here for my time-friendly tips! Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Quarto: A Year of Garden-Inspired Living by Linda VaterPreorder 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 HardingGrowing Joy Episode 16: Mounting Epiphytes And The Creation Of Cleverbloom.Com Love DIY projects and houseplants?Check out the full show notes and blog for Erin’s smart DIY solutions! Follow Erin:House Plant Club InstagramClever Bloom websiteClever Bloom InstagramPlanting Pink EtsyPlanting Pink websitePlanting 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Growing Joy Episode 289: How to Propagate Plants in Fluval Stratum with Lindsay SistiBook: The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant PropagationWhy Did My Alocasia Corm* Die?Alocasia Enthusiasts | FacebookLECHUZA-PON Plant Substrate 12 liter For all corm propagation methods,check out the full show notes and blog for Lindsay's step-by-step! Thank you to our episode sponsor:ManukoraGo 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 collectionScott breaks down the 200 plants that fill his apartment that are featured on his Instagram account, @tropicalocoHow Scott has turned Instagram friends into #plantfriendsIRLHis care secrets for dealing with the Australian summer/winterWhy people who work from home should have plantsMonstera care 101: light, watering, fertilizingMoss poles, what they are and why/if we need themAerial roots, what they are and can we trim them?What fenestrations areWhat the difference is in deliciosa/borsigiana/adansonii/obliquaScotts pruning practices for his Monstera collectionHow to take cuttings of your Monstera to make your plant look more fullTroubleshooting for yellow and brown leavesWhy the Monstera is such an sought after plantWhat’s up with variegationHow and why he created @boyswithplants and why he is letting us know that he is the creatorHow to get featured on @boyswithplantsThe scoop on the new Boys with Plants Book! Mentioned in our conversation:Australian Houseplant Community Facebook GroupStackwood@mickmitty@jamesipy Want your monstera to grow beautiful leaves?Check out the full show notes and blog for Scott's top care tips and design ideas! Follow Scott:Personal InstagramInstagramEtsy shopScott's Graphic Design Company 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Groundcover Revolution: How to use sustainable, low-maintenance, low-water groundcovers to replace your turf by Kathy JentzGardenDC: The Podcast about Mid-Atlantic Gardening Ready for low-maintenance garden plants?Check out the full show notes and blog here! Follow Kathy:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeX Thank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 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 GardeningVisit my Amazon Storefront for the items mentioned Want to grow basil, tomatoes, or herbs right on your balcony?Check out the full show notes and blog for Kevin's simple starter guide! Follow Kevin:WebsitePodcastYouTubeFacebookTwitterPinterestInstagram 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever!Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing LiSchumann resonancesMike Levin on electrifying insights into how bodies form To learn more about the benefits of earthing,check out the full show notes and blog here! Follow Earthing Institute:WebsiteInstagramFacebook GroupResearchCoursesVideo Testimonials Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 BirdGrab 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'. 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 toolsHow to “hack” your way to capitalizing on all the hacks you haveHow low light affects your plant care routingWatering for a low light plantPhototropismHow Variegated plants are affected by low lightStandard low light plantsLisa’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:Help Your Houseplant Acclimate To The Light It Is ReceivingYes, The Sun Can Burn Houseplants Inside. Who Knew? Got a dim corner calling for plants?Check out the full show notes and blog to see Lisa’s top low-light plant picks and care tips. Follow LisaWebsiteInstagramFacebook 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ThurowGrowing Joy Episode 195: Homesteading for Beginners with Michelle Bruhn and Stephanie Thurow Gardening for the first time?Check out the full show notes and blog here! Thank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 KaiserGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 RecipeHow to Braid GarlicHow to Plant GarlicHow to Braid OnionsLomi Tabletop ComposterTerritorial Seed Garden Garlic CatalogueUpcoming Book by Jill Old-Fashioned on PurposeGrowing 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?Check out the full show notes and blog for garlic growing tips from an expert! Follow Jill:WebsitePodcastInstagramTwitterYouTube 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Growing Joy 9: Double Joy: Plants and Cats and Poisonous Plants to Avoid with @Plant_Lady_is_the_New_Cat_LadyBarrina ledASPCAGrannick's Care Dogs Bitter Apple No Chew Spray 8ozWhatnotPalmstreetFor more pet and plant care tips,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Dudley:WebsiteInstagramStoreTikTokWhatnotThank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Growing Joy Episode 195: Homesteading For Beginners With Michelle Bruhn And Stephanie ThurowNational Center for Home Food PreservationBall Mason Jar Lids & BandsSpritz Society Pickle by Claussen®Food Preservation Cookbooks by Stephanie Thurow:Can It & Ferment It: More Than 75 Satisfying Small-Batch Canning and Fermentation Recipes for the Whole YearWECK Home Preserving: Made-from-Scratch Recipes for Water-Bath Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and MoreWECK Small-Batch Preserving: Year-Round Recipes for Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and More Ever thought about making your own tiny ecosystem?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to create your own unique terrarium world! Follow Stephanie:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTube 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 RanchMentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy 269: Carnivorous Plants: The Houseplant Pest Control You Never Thought Of with Kenny CooganGrowing Joy 147: How to Care For Carnivorous Plants Indoors with Damon of California CarnivoresRedLeaf ExoticsGardening For Abundance — Redleaf RanchSony Alpha ZV-E10Kevin from Epic GardeningInterested in adapting the abundance mindset?Check out the full show notes and blog here! Follow Brian:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeTikTokFacebookThank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicVisit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Quarto: Plants with Superpowers by David DomoneyPick 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 @teenytinyterraA Family Guide to Terrariums by Patricia BuzoEver thought about making your own tiny ecosystem?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how to create your own unique terrarium world!Follow Patricia:WebsiteInstagramBlogShopFollow 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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!Get my new Houseplant SOS course here! 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:Plant SOS: The Houseplant First Aid & Pest Survival GuideVintage RevivalsFungus Gnat Death DropsHydration RenewSoil RefreshKiller SmilesPlant FoodMelani Sanders (@justbeingmelani)Dana Carpenter (@fancyplantsclub)Chantel Gray (@channygrayhome)Diatomaceous Earth: Uses, Benefits, and SafetyDMV BeneficialsTaffy ShopGrowing Joy 289: How to Propagate Plants in Fluval Stratum with Lindsay SistiHaving 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 ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Quarto: The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Propagation by Lindsay SistiGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ArthurGardening with Grains by Brie ArthurThe Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife by Nancy LawsonDeer‑Resistant Design: Fence‑free Gardens that Thrive Despite the Deer by Karen Chapman Have you ever tried to rebloom an orchid?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what to expect in your first year as an orchid parent! Follow Brie:Brie GrowsBooksInstagramFacebook 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 titleMentioned in our conversation:Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererGathering Moss by Robin Wall KimmererDon OllsinDoug Tallamy - Co-Founder of Homegrown National ParkMary Reynolds | We Are The ArkMerlin Bird IDWebMDIf you're looking to connect deeper with your plants and with the world,check out LoriAnn's guide in the full show notes and blog.Thank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 intimidatingWhat an orchid is and where we find them in natureThe anatomy of an orchidMyth Busting on ice cubes, level of difficulty, fertilizerOrchid care: light and wateringOrchid bark—how necessary is it? What is it?Is it ok to buy orchids at your local grocery store or Trader Joe’s/Whole FoodsWhat 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 useMyth busting: Are ice cubes a good idea for watering?Listener questionsWhy 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 LadyGJ Episode 30: Orchid 101 With ChrisGJ Episode 84 : African Violets 101 With LisaOrder Lisa’s book “Bloom: The secrets of growing flowering houseplants year-round” Have you ever tried to rebloom an orchid?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn what to expect in your first year as an orchid parent! Follow Chris Satch:WebsiteInstagramLinkedIn Follow The Sill: WebsiteInstagramXYouTubeFacebookTikTokPinterestPlant Parent Club 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 cookbookMentioned in our conversation:There’s Always Room at the Table by Kaleb Wyse'Incredible Escalator' Climbing Zucchini – Renee's GardenFor Kaleb's easy yet delicious zucchini recipes,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Kaleb:WebsiteInstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookXThank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ladyMaria 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 possibleWhat causes our brain to release dopamine and what it isWhat compulsive behavior isWhat our brain on dopamine doesWhat neurotransmitters, synapses and receptors areThe difference between endorphins and dopamineWhy we feel bonded to our plants: enter oxytocinHow these things are measured in our brains4 phases of compulsive behaviors to look out forHow to cope with compulsive urges when growing your urban jungle Looking for more reasons to justify your plant addiction?Check out the full show notes and blog to learn how your brain responds to plant care! Follow Caitlin:InstagramTwitter Follow Stellate:WebsiteTwitter 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 onlineMentioned in our conversation:Trending Tropicals® Collection – Costa FarmsExotic Angel – Costa FarmsBlog: A Plethora of Pothos VarietiesGolden PothosAlbo PothosLemon Top PothosGlobal Green PothosPothos ManjulaPothos Neon JoyJessenia PothosFor pothos recommendations based on your plant parent personality,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Costa Farms:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeTikTokPinterestLinkedInFollow 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 LadyGJ Episode 30: Orchid 101 With ChrisGJ Episode 84 : African Violets 101 With LisaOrder Lisa’s book “Bloom: The secrets of growing flowering houseplants year-round” Do you think blooming houseplants are too tricky?Check out the full show notes and blog for easy-care options that bloom beautifully! Follow Lisa: InstagramWebsiteFacebookBooks 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 | @palmstreetappMentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy 147: How to Care For Carnivorous Plants IndoorsSpecial Thanks to:Ara (@propagationdiaries) and Scott (@top_cut_plants) for coordination of the podcastJosh (@plantzaddyclub) and Marcus (@plantdecoatl) for the production and design of the podcast lounge)For your favorite influencers' hottest plant takes,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 windowsMentioned in our conversation:Patrick's other blogs: Sublime Succulents & Self-Sustaining EcosystemDomino Magazine article: How a Stylist DIY-ed Her Dream Greenhouse From a Prefab KitInterested to learn more about greenhouses?Check out the full show notes and blog for the best beginner tips!Follow this episode's guests: Patrick / greenhouseinfo.com: Greenhouse Info | EmailAndi and Eric / East Nashville Greenhouse: InstagramKristin / Tending West: Instagram | Newsletter | WebsiteTiffany / plantmahmah: Instagram | EmailAmy Lefavour: InstagramFollow 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 CommunityAmazing Tree Touching Experience - Join the Challenge! | TikTokBook: The Overstory by Richard PowersBook: Self-Care for Eco-Anxiety by Rachael CohenBook: Everyday Plant Magic by Rachael CohenPlantWaveProject 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 LotusweiGrowing Joy Episode 294: I Found 22 Ducklings on My Roof: A Nature-Curious Story of Trust and TransformationTo discover the magical world of communicating with trees,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Rachael:WebsiteInstagramTikTokFacebookYouTubeThank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 & StephanieMentioned 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 MoreCan It & Ferment It: More Than 75 Satisfying Small-Batch Canning and Fermentation Recipes for the Whole YearWECK Home Preserving: Made-from-Scratch Recipes for Water-Bath Canning, Fermenting, Pickling, and MoreWECK 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?Check out the full show notes and blog for the best beginner tips!Follow Stephanie:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeFollow Michelle:WebsiteFacebookInstagramFollow 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 HomeGrowing Joy Episode 296: How to Grow Lavender with Rebecca of Lavender ConnectionGrowing Joy Episode 292: 7 Houseplants with Superpowers with David DomoneyCurious to know which outdoor plant in your area has superpowers?Check out the full show notes and blog here for David's list!Follow David:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeTikTokPinterestXThank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicMake 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:GJ Episode 158: Grow and Make Essential Oils with Chris Satch“Row 19” Lavender Essential Oil (lavandula intermedia)Planning to grow your own lavender?Check out the full show notes and blog for Rebecca's expert growing tips!Follow Lavender Connection:WebsiteInstagramFacebookPinterestYelpTrip AdvisorThank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesBring 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 onlineMentioned in our conversation:Northwest Flower and Garden ShowGuess that plant with @abbysgardenparties | InstagramFind Out Your Plant Parent PersonalityWant to know the best succulents for your lifestyle and lighting situation?Check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Abby:WebsiteInstagramFacebookTikTokParty PackagesThank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesGo to windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 changeMentioned 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,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Dovetail WorkwearGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 SargeantFor Juliet's expert tips on achieving a healthier and livelier soil,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Juliet:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeHouzzXThank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicVisit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Dovetail WorkwearGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:'Plants with Superpowers' by David Domoney'My House Plant Changed My Life' Signed Book by David DomoneyTV Shows where David Domoney appeared inGrowing Joy Ep 269: Carnivorous Plants: The Houseplant Pest Control You Never Thought Of with Kenny CooganFor David's amazing list of houseplants with superpowers,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow David:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeTikTokPinterestXThank you to our episode sponsor:Dovetail WorkwearGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 mattersMentioned in our conversation:RMS Beauty SunCoverup Super Tint SPF 50ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40ISDIN Fusion Water MAGICSavor Beauty Radiance Sun Milk SPF 50+NEUTROGENA® Sunscreen and Sun Protection ProductsLa Roche-Posay Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for Sensitive SkinCoolibar Bel Aire Zip-Off Sun Visor | Black UPF 50+Coolibar Women's Devi Long Sleeve Fitness T-Shirt | Lavendula UPF 50+Sun protection doesn't need to be complicated!Check out the full show notes and blog here for my sun protection tips! Thank you to our episode sponsors:CoolibarProtect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.Gardener's SupplyDiscover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Rachel Herz: Smell, Your Least Appreciated Sense | TED TalkRachel Herz: Smell Can Change the World: Health, Technology, and the Future | TED Talk International Flavors & FragrancesMonell Chemical Senses CenterTrygg EngenDr. Rachel Herz’s books:The Scent of DesireWhy You Eat What You EatThat's Disgusting: Unraveling the Mysteries of RepulsionReady to explore the healing wonders of natural fragrances?Check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Dr Rachel:WebsiteLinkedInXAcademic WorkConsultingThank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.CoolibarProtect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.Gardener's SupplyDiscover 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 PropagationFluval StratumLECALechuza PonHoya propagation tutorial with @alltheplantbabiesFor Lindsay's expert tips on how to use Fluval Stratum,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Lindsay:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeTikTokThank you to our episode sponsor:CoolibarProtect 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 NorrisGrowing Joy Ep 274: Plant Inspired Vacations with Leslie Halleck and Marcia Castro-RosenbergSun Seeker for IOS and AndroidSunCalciNaturalist appNational Wildlife FederationAHS Garden Network - American Horticultural SocietyMembership - American Horticultural SocietyAmerican Public Gardens AssociationThe Bane of BeautyInterested in taking the first steps in creating a natural garden?Check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Kelly:WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInThank you to our episode sponsors:CoolibarProtect your skin with Coolibar and save 25% off your order at coolibar.com with code GROWINGJOY25.Wind River ChimesVisit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.Dovetail WorkwearGrab 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 OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 ShowGrowing Joy Ep. 116: Houseplant Identification Basics from Derek from The Crazy BotanistGet all the myth-busting goodness in one place...Check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Derek The Chocolate Botanist:InstagramYouTubeFacebookXThank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicAs 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 LeungTake 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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?Check out the full show notes and blog here! 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 LeungTake 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“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, FloridaMentioned in our conversation:Monterey Sluggo® PlusKristine Albrecht - Dahlias (@santacruzdahlias)CalMag Pro Hydroponic and Soil Nutrient Fertilizer for Plants Calcium and Magnesium BoosterThe Dahlia House’s collectionsWhat part of the Dahlia growing process has you the most excited?Check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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:Human Spaces Report on The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the WorkplaceStartOrganic Free Starter CourseHow have office gardens impacted employees' well-being?Check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 GardenVendors: Andy’s OrchidsRancho Cacto NurseryChey D Plant LadyGardenia Gardens and DesignCosta FarmsThe Lily Pad BulbsLittle Prince PlantsThe Dahlia HouseUrban Jungle Plant Shop SeattleThe Plant FarmInfluencers: Kevin from Epic GardeningKamili from PlantblerdJaques in the GardenDavida from Condo Plant MamaKrystal from plantswithkrystalDerek from ChocolatebotanistTim from Greenlife TPGRobbie from Visit Our GardenPlants featured:Neofinetia-falcata Furan OrchidTylecodon schaeferianusCrassula deceptorAnthurium doc bloc x luxuriansConophytum “monkey’s face”The Purple TomatoRanunculus SfumatoOrchid cactus-epiphyllum beavertailMystery lipstick cactus from The Plant FarmThank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River ChimesVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 CourseMentioned in our conversation:Organic Vegetable Gardening Course (Discount applied at checkout through clicking the link!)Master Seed Starting CourseNorthwest Flower & Garden ShowXerces SocietyMissouri Botanical GardenLady Bird Johnson Wildflower CenterGiverny GardensChattahoochee Nature CenterPlant Partners: Science-Based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden by Jessica WalliserGJ Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier and My MOMFor Joe's proven and tested gardening strategies,check out the full show notes and blog here!Follow Joe:WebsiteInstagramFacebookPodcastTwitterPinterestThank you to our episode sponsor:Quarto: Go Forth and Forage by Whitney JohnsonGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.