Rough Around the Hedges

Let’s be real—nobody warned us how fast this hobby can spiral. One minute you're picking up a pothos at the grocery store, the next you’re knee-deep in rare plant auctions and budgeting for grow lights. In this episode, we're talking about the 10 things we wish we knew before we started our plant journeys—beyond the basic care tips. From the hidden costs of plant care and the pressure of social media trends, to the way your collection can quietly take over your home (and your wallet), we're breaking down the real-life lessons we’ve learned along the way. This one’s for anyone who’s ever said, “I’m just getting one plant.”

Join us as we hang out with Kaylin and poke around her plant shelf, checking for scale (the dreaded plant pest) and getting into some real talk along the way.

That’s right — we spend this entire episode shaming our plants. We air the grievances, call out the divas, and roast the green freeloader who’s been sitting in the same pot for three years doing absolutely nothing. No one is safe. But beneath the drama, there’s a real conversation about expectations, projection, and what it means to care for something that doesn’t always give back the way we want. Come for the petty plant rants, stay for the subtle self-reflection.

In this episode, we dive into the Epipremnum genus—home to some of the most popular and beginner-friendly houseplants, like the golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) and its dazzling variegated cousins. Learn how to distinguish between cultivars, what makes them so adaptable indoors, and how to help them thrive in your space. Whether you're a new plant parent or a seasoned collector, this deep dive into Epipremnum will leave you seeing pothos in a whole new light.

In this episode, we're getting to the root of a topic that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential—pots for houseplants. From terracotta to plastic, self-watering to decorative cachepots, we break down the pros and cons of different materials and styles, and how your choice of pot can affect your plant's health, growth, and even watering needs. Whether you’re team drainage hole or just want your plants to look cute on the shelf, we’ve got practical tips to help you choose the best pot for every plant in your collection.

It's a plant chat!

Is dry air the silent killer of your houseplants? In this episode, we’re diving into the world of humidity—what it is, why it matters, and how to tell if your plants are craving more of it. From crispy leaf edges to stubborn brown tips, we break down the telltale signs of humidity stress and share practical tips for boosting moisture in your plant space. Whether you're a misting enthusiast or wondering if a pebble tray actually does anything, we've got you covered. Show art courtesy of @Plantflix

Ever wondered how your leafy friends survive the journey through the mail? In this episode, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of shipping houseplants—from packaging tips and seasonal precautions to choosing the right carriers and keeping roots happy in transit. Whether you're a seller, swapping with a fellow plant lover, or just curious how your online plant orders make it to your door, this episode has all the leafy logistics you need.

Are you running out of space for new plants but just can’t stop collecting? We get it! In this episode, we explore smart and stylish ways to maximize your plant space—without feeling overwhelmed. From vertical gardens and hanging planters to multipurpose furniture and unexpected nooks, we’ll share creative solutions to help you fit more greenery into your home. Whether you're in a small apartment or just looking to optimize your plant display, this episode is packed with tips to help you expand your indoor jungle.

In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re tackling one of the most stubborn houseplant pests—scale! These tiny, sap-sucking insects can wreak havoc on your favorite plants if left unchecked. We’ll break down how to identify scale infestations, the best methods for treatment (from natural remedies to chemical solutions), and how to prevent future outbreaks. Whether you're dealing with a minor infestation or a full-blown plant rescue mission, we’ve got the tips you need to fight back. Tune in and let’s get those plants scale-free!

It's time for a plant chat!

In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we're joined by houseplant expert Darryl Cheng to break down his approach to diagnosing plant problems. Darryl shares his structured form for troubleshooting issues like yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and pest infestations—helping plant parents move beyond guesswork to real solutions. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned grower, this episode will give you the tools to understand and care for your plants with confidence! Tune in for practical advice, expert insights, and plenty of plant talk!

In this illuminating episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re joined by the brilliant Darryl Cheng, creator of House Plant Journal and author of The New Plant Parent, to break down the science of plant lighting. From bright indirect to full sun, grow lights to window direction, Darryl simplifies the complexities of light and how it truly affects our plants. If you’ve ever struggled to understand what “low light” really means or whether your plants are getting enough energy to thrive, this episode is for you. Tune in for expert advice, practical tips, and a fresh perspective on lighting that will transform the way you care for your plants!

As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, it’s time to shake off winter and get your houseplants ready for spring! In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re diving into everything you need to do to help your plants thrive in the new season. From repotting and fertilizing to adjusting light and watering schedules, we’ll cover essential spring plant care tips. Plus, we’ll discuss common springtime plant issues and how to prevent them. Get ready to refresh your indoor jungle and give your green friends the best start to the growing season!

Some plants just aren’t worth the struggle. In this episode, we’re talking about the species we’ve officially sworn off—whether they’re too fussy, too pest-prone, or just not a good fit for our growing conditions. From humidity divas to rapid spreaders that take over your space, we’ll share the plants we’ve had to part ways with and why we won’t be going back. Plus, we’ll chat about how to make peace with plant breakups and find better matches for your collection. Because not every plant deserves a second chance!

In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re diving into the world of String of Things plants with special guest Jen! From the ever-popular String of Pearls to the delicate String of Turtles, Jen shares expert tips on keeping these trailing beauties happy and thriving. We’ll cover watering techniques, lighting needs, propagation hacks, and common mistakes to avoid. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you grow the perfect string collection.

In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re kicking back for a laid-back plant chat with the one and only Tyler Thrasher!

In this special episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re joined by artist, scientist, and botanical enthusiast Tyler Thrasher for a deep dive into the captivating world of rare dwarf succulents. Tyler shares his journey into this niche realm, the challenges of cultivating these tiny wonders, and the joy they bring to his creative and scientific pursuits. Whether you’re a seasoned plant collector or just curious about the magic of mini succulents, this episode will inspire and educate. Tune in for a blend of plant-growing wisdom, passion, and a touch of Tyler’s signature humor!

Struggling with droopy plants and mushy roots? This episode of Rough Around The Hedges is all about root rot—what causes it, how to fix it, and tips to prevent it. Keep your houseplants thriving with our quick and practical advice. Tune in now!

Welcome to Season 3 of Rough Around The Hedges! This year, we’re not just making resolutions for ourselves—we’re including our plants too. From expanding personal collections to nurturing those rare gems, this episode is all about setting achievable goals to grow alongside our leafy companions. Join us as we share updates on our own houseplant collections, highlight the stars of our indoor jungles, and reveal the plant goals we’re working toward in 2025. Whether it's adding a wishlist plant, repotting long-overdue friends, or tackling tricky care challenges, we’re here to inspire and support your plant parenting journey. Grab a seat by your philodendron and tune in for fresh tips, heartfelt plant stories, and a green start to the new year.

Ever dream of turning your houseplants into lush, oversized beauties? In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we’re uncovering the secrets to growing your plants BIG! From selecting the right species to providing the perfect care, we’ll walk you through what it takes to help your plants reach their full potential.

Feeling overwhelmed by your plant collection? In this episode, we discuss when and how to downsize with care. Learn tips for rehoming, propagating, and letting go of plants that no longer fit your space or lifestyle. Make room for joy in your indoor jungle!

Are your plants looking sad and speckled? You might have a sneaky pest problem—spider mites! In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we dive into the world of these tiny, sap-sucking nuisances that can wreak havoc on your beloved houseplants. We’ll teach you how to spot the early signs of an infestation, from yellowing leaves to the telltale webbing.

Join us for a plant chat!

In this episode, we sit down with Kara Sweeney, the inspiring founder of Plantzilla, a thriving landscaping business that’s reshaping outdoor spaces. Kara takes us through her unique journey, from her early love of plants to the challenges and triumphs of starting her own company. She shares her insights on breaking into the landscaping industry, finding her niche, and how her passion for greenery turned into a successful venture.

Join us as we chat with Alyssa, a local beekeeper, about the ins and outs of managing bees in Minnesota. From surviving the state's harsh winters to maximizing honey production during the summer bloom, Alyssa shares her tips and experiences. Whether you're a beekeeper or just curious, this episode offers a quick dive into the fascinating world of Minnesota beekeeping!

Brace yourself for another episode filled with spine-tingling tales from the dark side of plant care! In this episode of Rough Around The Hedges, we share the hosts' worst houseplant horror stories—from relentless pest infestations to accidental (and sometimes brutal) plant "murders." Tune in if you dare, and discover just how creepy houseplant care can get!

In this episode, we explore the captivating Orchidaceae family, known for its vast diversity and stunning blooms. Learn about their unique adaptations, fascinating pollination techniques, and tips for growing orchids at home. Whether you're a plant lover or just curious, discover what makes orchids one of the most remarkable plant families on Earth.

Welcome to a plant chat!

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on the outdoor growing season and how it’s impacted our favorite houseplants. We discuss the challenges and rewards of moving indoor plants outside, the environmental benefits of fresh air, sunlight, and natural elements, and how different species thrived in various conditions. Whether you experienced growth spurts, pest issues, or anything in between, join us as we share tips for transitioning your plants back indoors and preparing them for the colder months ahead.

In this episode, we explore the unsung heroes of plant care—houseplant supports! Whether you're growing climbing vines, heavy succulents, or tall leafy greens, the right support can make all the difference in keeping your plants happy and thriving. We’ll dive into the different types of supports, including moss poles, trellises, and stakes, and discuss when and how to use each one. Learn how these simple tools can encourage healthier growth, prevent drooping, and give your indoor jungle a more structured look.

In this episode, Kaylin and Kristine reveal their bad plant care habits.

We talk about how the plant community exploded from a niche hobby into a trend, fueled by social media and sustainability. But with this growth comes overconsumption, plant hoarding, and unsustainable practices.

It's time for a plant chat!

We simplify the art of watering houseplants and explore how soil and light conditions impact your watering routine. Discover the right amount and frequency of watering based on your plant’s needs, understand the signs of overwatering and underwatering, and learn how to use water additives like fertilizers effectively. We’ll also discuss how different soil types and light levels affect moisture levels and watering schedules. Whether you're a plant novice or a seasoned green thumb, this episode will help you fine-tune your watering practices for a thriving indoor garden. Tune in for expert tips and practical advice!

In this episode, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Marantaceae houseplants, including the Prayer Plant and Calathea. Learn how to provide the perfect light, temperature, and humidity conditions to keep these stunning plants thriving. We’ll also cover essential watering and soil tips, troubleshoot common issues, and share simple propagation methods to help you expand your plant collection. Tune in for expert advice and practical tips to bring vibrant greenery into your home!

Dreaming of adding exotic houseplants to your collection? This episode covers everything you need to know about importing houseplants safely and legally. From navigating regulations to finding trustworthy sources, we’ll share expert tips and practical advice to help you grow your indoor garden with global greens. Tune in for a greener, more diverse plant collection!

In this episode, we examine the plant exhibits at the Minnesota State Fair. Learn about the preparation involved, hear from our past experiences, and gain insight into what makes these plant displays noteworthy. This episode offers a detailed look at the role of plant exhibitions in one of the country’s largest state fairs.

We're back with Katie to continue our plant chat

We are joined by our friend Katie and sit down for a plant chat!

Join us as we explore the ins and outs of relocating with your beloved houseplants. From packing tips to setting up their new home, discover how to ensure your leafy friends stay happy and healthy throughout the move. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned plant parent, this episode is packed with practical advice to make your move a green success!

Content Disclaimer: Mental Health and Depression discussed in this episode Kaylin and Kristine sit down with Jen Gramstrup, RN, and discuss ways to care for your plant collections during times when it may be difficult to care for yourself.

In this episode, we’ll guide you through the essentials of starting your houseplant journey. Discover how to choose the right plant, master basic care techniques, and create a thriving environment for your new green friend. We’ll also cover essential tools, establishing a care routine, and troubleshooting common problems. Join us for practical tips and expert advice to help you become a confident plant parent. Happy planting!

We sit down and have a plant chat!

Today, we dive into the world of natural pest control for your cherished houseplant collection. Say goodbye to harmful chemicals and hello to beneficial insects! We're thrilled to be joined by two incredible experts, Kara Sweeney and Katherine Beacham-Smith of DMV Beneficials-Twin Cities, who share their wealth of knowledge on using nature’s tiny warriors to keep your plants healthy and pest-free.

In this episode, we explore three stunning and easy-care succulents: Haworthia, Aloe, and Gasteria. Learn key tips for care, propagation, and display to keep these unique houseplants thriving. Join us and let your indoor garden flourish!

In this episode, we dive into the use of pesticides on houseplants. Pesticides can be a powerful tool for maintaining healthy plants indoors, but they also come with their own set of challenges.

Join us as we explore our expert-level houseplant collection. From rare finds to unique care challenges, we share our firsthand experiences with these remarkable indoor specimens. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a budding plant parent, tune in to uncover the secrets behind these extraordinary botanical treasures!

This week we delve into the fascinating world of tissue culture. Join us as we explore the art and science of cultivating plant cells in a controlled environment. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or a curious enthusiast, this episode offers insights into the latest techniques, breakthroughs, and challenges in tissue culture.

Join us for a plant chat! Photo Credit: @stevesleavesinc