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

Do you love the smell of fresh flowers or the aroma that wafts through your home as you cook with herbs? Smell might not be the first thing we think of when it comes to gardening, but it's actually a super powerful way to bring joy to our gardens! In fact, our sense of smell has strong associations with our long-term memories and emotions. Today, we're chatting with my friend Amy Anthony, a certified clinical aromatherapist and aromatic gardener, who will share her expertise on how aromatic gardening can cultivate joy, calm, and memories through scent.In this episode, we learn:[05:08] How Amy's passion for plants led to her expertise in aromatherapy[06:46] How the process of obtaining an aromatherapy certification works[09:33] How scents can trigger memories through the olfactory system[14:28] Is the connection between the olfactory system and the brain due to the nose's proximity?[16:57] Where can you find high-quality potting mix and fertilizer for your garden?[19:06] Are you searching for personalized and premium wind chimes for Mother's Day?[22:37] What is aromatic gardening and which plants are its focus?[24:54] Various plants that repel pests or deer[26:26] Can you easily grow aromatic plants, distill their oil, and use it at home?[27:41] Why you should add aromatic plants to your garden [30:57] Amy grows aromatic plants to make tea, hydrosols, and tinctures[34:51] What are the recommended methods for brewing lemon balm tea?[36:56] What’s your go-to resource for identifying plant diseases, preventing animal damage, and setting up a successful garden?[37:52] Amy's recommended plants to promote relaxation[40:09] Which plants are ideal for an afternoon energy boost?[42:31] Which plants promote connection with oneself or others in the context of aromatherapy or sensuality?[45:50] What non-culinary herbs should you try growing?[49:20] Which staple plant is recommended for aromatic gardening?[53:04] Where can you find Amy on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Book by Dr. Qing Li Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and HappinessPoem by Twyla M. Hansen The Other WomanNYC Aromatica Plant TalksNYC Aromatica Online ClassesFor a list of herbs, flowers, and their benefits,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.Espoma OrganicMake sure your aromatic herbs and plants are getting the right nutrients! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by Susan MulvihillThis gardening season, arm yourself with The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook by veggie-growing guru Susan Mulvihill of YouTube Susans in the Garden!This book will become your go-to resource for all natural pesticide free solutions and troubleshooting for the gardening woes that will inevitably arise in your garden. The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook will help you properly identify over 28 bacterial and fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and potato scab, limit damage from plant eating animals and most importantly, it'll help you set your garden up for success to actually prevent these problems from ever happening.Check out The Vegetable Garden Problem Solver Handbook at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.Follow Amy:WebsitePodcastInstagramLinkedInFacebookFollow Maria 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 love this weeks episode with Kelly from Decorating Tips and Tricks on Interior Design Trends for your Garden? If so, listen to her trailer, and go check out the Decorating Tips and Tricks Podcast and subscribe! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Interior design principles are not limited to our indoor spaces! For us plant parents, interior design and gardening may initially appear as separate domains, but there are numerous similarities between the two—so much so that the principles of one can be applied to the other. In this episode, we'll learn from Kelly Wilkniss of Decorating Tips and Tricks podcast as she shares nine valuable interior design tips that can be applied to transform your garden into a stunning, cohesive, and joyful space.In this episode, we learn:[04:50] How has Kelly’s gardening passion intersected with her interior design career?[07:16] What inspired Kelly to do an all-white garden[08:45] What is Kelly’s interior design style?[10:30] Kelly’s opinion on modernizing antiques[12:01] How did she transition from being a lawyer to an interior designer?[14:08] Where can you find stylish lights for upgrading indoor plant environments?[16:04] Where to find a personalized Mother's Day gift that includes handcrafted wind chimes[20:31] Tip #1 Take a photo of interior and exterior spaces (it promotes a cohesive design flow!)[21:56] Tip #2 Limit your color palette[25:18] Tip #3 Create a flow[33:49] A must-have book for outdoor living area design ideas with mix-and-match suggestions and before-and-after pictures[35:10] Tip #4 Plant in odd numbers[37:55] Tip #5 Layering![40:44] Tip #6 Balance and scale[44:26] Tip #7 Visual noise[48:48] Tip #8 The touch of black[52:08] Tip #9 Not having ugly storage[01:00:13] Where can you find Kelly on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy Episode 145 Interior Design Trends and Houseplants With Betsy From Affordable Interior DesignWayfair shedsGrowing Joy Episode 180 Minimalism and Plants With Stephanie of Sustainable MinimalistFor all of Kelly's design tips and notes,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech SolutionsSoltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.Field Guide to Outside Style: Design and Plant Your Perfect Outdoor Space by Ryan McEnaneyMake your lawn look restorative, stylish, and cohesive, with Ryan McKenney's new book Field Guide to Outside Style. Ryan walks you through perzonalizing your outdoor living space with the right plants, furnishings, and other design elements. Did we mention there are a lot of options, case studies, and before and after pictures to help you really digest this concept?Check out Field Guide to Outside Style at your favorite local bookstore, quarto.com, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.Follow Kelly:WebsitePodcastBookInstagramYouTubeFollow Maria 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 did our houseplants come from and what’s the history behind them? From Babylonian gardens to the healing power of herbs, houseplants have been used for centuries to cultivate joy in our lives. In this episode, I spoke with Jane Perrone, OG planty podcaster and author of the newly released Legends of the Leaf. Jane has spent years researching and collecting stories, lore, and surprises about our beloved house plants, and is here to enlighten us about their history. Let’s learn all about the monstera, the spider plants, and more that have been in homes for generations!In this episode, we learn:[05:26] Meet Jane Perrone and learn about her latest book Legends of the Leaf[11:38] Insight into Jane's book and its structure[14:13] What was Jane’s research process in writing her book?[16:47] Was aloe vera part of Cleopatra's beauty routine?[18:19] What is the impact of plants on air quality?[20:13] Where can you find quality indoor and outdoor gardening products?[22:19] Where can you get flower and vegetable transplants to create an effortless garden?[24:13] What is the cultural significance of the Aspidistra plant throughout history?[28:37] How did Aspidistra become a popular houseplant?[30:32] History of the spider plant and its cultural significance[34:23] Are you looking for a book to start your first container garden?[36:23] What is Colonial botany and why was it an important field of study?[39:37] Dark history of Dieffenbachia[46:23] History of the Boston fern and why it became popular[51:40] Why is the monstera plant a must-have for any plant lover?[54:48] Who worked on the illustrations for Jane's book?[58:07] Where can you purchase Jane's book?[01:05:46] Where can you find Jane Perrone on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Jane Perrone’s book Legends of the LeafD.G. Hessayon’s book The House Plant ExpertBiodiversity Heritage LibraryGeorge Orwell’s book Keep the Aspidistra FlyingGracie Fields’ song The Biggest Aspidistra In The WorldNetflix film Enola HolmesGerman poet Johann Wolfgang von GoetheAmerican Sitcom Will & GraceNoel Kingsbury’s book The Story of FlowersFor a listicle of our favorite houseplants and their history,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Territorial Seed CompanyGardening is made easier with flower and vegetable transplants! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.Espoma OrganicMake sure your houseplants are getting the right products! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.The First Time Gardener: Container Gardening by Pam FarleyDon't let limited space and gardening anxieties hold you back from growing your own food. Start your very first garden in containers, the easy and affordable way, with the help of Pam Farley's The First Time Gardener: Container Gardening. Learn the basics and requirements of container gardening such as size, water, fertilizer, location, and more with this comprehensive and fully-illustrated book.Check out Container Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, or amazon.com.Follow Jane:WebsiteInstagramTikTokPodcastYouTubeBookFollow Maria 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 the freshest and most delicious lettuce comes from growing them yourself? At home, Billy and I haven't bought a plastic box of lettuce in months and enjoy fresh salad almost daily! We've been growing lettuce hydroponically indoors and are now gearing up to start our outdoor lettuce garden. In this episode, we're joined by Nicole Burke from Gardenary, who shares her expertise on growing lettuce and how you can start your own lettuce garden, even if you don't have a lot of space or experience! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a houseplant parent looking to expand your plant collection, this episode has something for everyone.In this episode, we learn:[00:03] Maria shares indoor hydroponic lettuce growth and outdoor lettuce garden prep.[06:02] Why lettuce is ideal for first-time food-growing houseplant parents.[06:53] What is Gardenary all about?[08:23] How Nicole makes beautiful raised-bed gardens[14:19] Where are 98% of the United States lettuces grown?[17:01] What materials are needed for lettuce?[20:47] Where can you find a wide array of quality lettuce seeds and seed mixes?[23:27] Where to get a potting mix, soil, fertilizer, or compost for your garden beds/containers?[25:15] What lettuce does Nicole recommend for beginners?[24:34] Lettuce Category #1: Loose leaf[29:15] Lettuce Category #2: Head lettuce[31:09] Is Nicole indoor-starting or direct-sowing lettuce?[32:32] How do you calculate when it's time to start direct sowing?[35:55] What is the process of growing lettuce from seed?[36:14] Process #1: If you have limited space[40:40] Where to find a nutrition program for weight management, more energy, and clear skin?[42:55] Process #2: If you live in an apartment[46:01] What are Nicole’s tips for harvesting?[47:53] What mistakes do people commonly make in growing lettuce?[49:58] How to eat Swiss chard[52:23] Have you heard of Nicole’s newest book Kitchen Garden Revival?[57:45] Where can you follow Nicole?Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy Episode 120 Designing and Planning My Garden // Coaching With Nicole of GardenaryIvette Soler’s book The Edible Front Yard: The Mow-Less, Grow-More Plan for a Beautiful, Bountiful GardenHydroponic planterNicole Burke’s book Kitchen Garden RevivalNicole’s Burke’s book Leaves, Roots & FruitRocky Top Mix Salad BlendTerritorial Seed Company Spring MixesMartha Stewart's book Vegetables: Inspired Recipes and Tips for Choosing, Cooking, and Enjoying the Freshest Seasonal Flavors: A Cookbook10 Years, 4 Cities, 8 Gardens-Nicole Burke's Kitchen Garden JourneyFor a complete list of lettuce types, tips, and tricks,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Territorial Seed CompanyGrowing your own salad is made easier with a wide variety of lettuce seeds and seed mixes! Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door. They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for leafy veggies, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.Espoma OrganicGardening is less complicated when you have the right products on hand! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.SakaraMake eating healthier easier with science-backed, plant-rich nutrition programs and wellness essentials right to your door! Sakara provides ready-to-eat meals that are nutritionally designed to deliver results — from weight management and eased bloat, to boosted energy and clearer skin. Enjoy delicious meals that have a perfect balance of plants,protein and fats, while also taking control of your physical health.Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.Follow Nicole:WebsiteTwitterFacebookInstagramYouTubeFollow Maria 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 you could grow functional mushrooms next to your tomato plants? In this episode 2 of the Mushroom Miniseries, Billy and I continue our exploration of the world of mushrooms in partnership with North Spore and their expert mycologist, Louis Giller. Today's episode focuses on growing mushrooms in your garden and covers topics such as integrating mushrooms into a traditional garden and the benefits of cultivating mushrooms alongside your plant babies!Enjoy an exclusive 10% off your mushrooms,use code 'GROWINGJOY' at northspore.com!In this episode, we learn:[05:35] Benefits of Lion's Mane mushroom supplements for improved focus and energy[09:15] Why should you grow mushrooms in your garden?[10:45] Specific vocabulary in mushroom cultivation[12:43] Is mushroom DNA diverse or uniform across different areas?[15:30] Why you can't simply grow any mushrooms in soil alone[17:15] Are mushrooms annuals or perennials?[20:14] Where can you find full spectrum plant lights to bring the beauty of outdoors inside this April?[22:16] Where can you find a healthy meal delivery program?[24:52] What protections exist for preventing other mushroom species from colonizing a bed of ripe food and confusing the farmer?[26:29] Can you harvest mushrooms immediately after inoculating your garden beds?[27:35] What mushrooms are best for beginners to grow in the garden?[29:30] Do you need a lot of space to grow a good harvest?[30:29] Do worms compete or work with mycorrhizal? [32:25] What materials do you need for growing mushrooms in your garden?[34:44] Where can you find a wind chime that would make the perfect gift these holidays?[36:21] How can you grow mushrooms in your mulch? [41:04] Does a denser, ground-level plant provide better shade for the mushrooms??[44:00] Is there a general rule for spacing the insertion points when inoculating a bale of hay?[44:49] How do mycorrhizal networks and mold coexist in nature, particularly in damp and dark environments?[48:09] How to create a mushroom container for small gardening spaces[52:49] What are the required maintenance tasks for growing mushrooms during the season?[57:03] What is the difference between cutting and pulling mushrooms during harvesting?[58:23] Best beginner mushroom varieties that are resilient to temperature and humidity changes[59:40] Different mushrooms that you can grow in different garden zones or different climates[01:00:56] What is the process of inoculating logs for growing mushrooms?[01:03:48] What's the purpose of wax capping your mushrooms?[01:05:29] Can mushroom inoculation be done before or after the frost date?[01:10:12] Where can you find mushroom spawns and learn more about mushroom growing?Mentioned in our conversation:North Spore 'Spray & Grow' Mushroom Growing KitsPink Oyster ‘Spray & Grow’ Mushroom Growing KitYouTube video North Spore Test garden in Portland, MaineLion’s Mane tinctureHow to Grow Mushrooms in Buckets & ContainersWhich Species of Log is Best?How to Make Outdoor Mushroom BedsHow to Grow Mushrooms on Logs, Totems & StumpsMushroom Spores vs. Spawn: What is the Difference?YouTube video How to Grow Mushrooms on Logs | Complete Inoculation Walkthrough!For a complete checklist of mushroom gardening necessities,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech SolutionsSoltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".SakaraMake eating healthier easier with science-backed, plant-rich nutrition programs and wellness essentials right to your door! Sakara provides ready-to-eat meals that are nutritionally designed to deliver results — from weight management and eased bloat, to boosted energy and clearer skin. Enjoy delicious meals that have a perfect balance of plants,protein and fats, while also taking control of your physical health.Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.Follow North Spore:Louis' LinkedInWebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookTikTokPinterestFollow Maria 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 ready to give your house plants the love and care they deserve this spring? It's that time of year again where we shed our winter blues and embrace the sunshine and fresh air of a new season. And what better way to welcome the change than by spring cleaning for your plant babies? In this episode, we've got you covered with a checklist of things to do to set your plants up for success this season, while also cultivating joy and mindfulness in the process!In this episode, we learn:[02:42] What is spring cleaning for your houseplants[03:45] How the health of your plants can reflect your mental state[04:00] Spring Houseplant Care Checklist [04:09] 1. Understanding how the change in daylight affects plant care[05:09] 1.a. How to adjust watering frequency during spring[08:10] 1.b. More light equals more photosynthesis (Ensure your plants are getting enough light!)[10:18] 2. Mind your temperature (Keep your plants in a comfortable environment!)[11:20] 3. Spring cleaning![13:10] 3.a. Prune brown and yellow leaves to promote growth[16:45] 3.b. Why you need to wipe your leaves[19:30] Where can you get plant-rich meals delivered to your door?[22:22] The best place to get safe and easy-to-use gardening products for your houseplants[24:17] 4. Refresh soil if necessary[25:45] 4.a. Repot or pot up your plants[29:41] 5. Fertilize if your plant is growing[31:23] 6. Consider the pros and cons of moving plants outside in the spring[36:06] 7. Why it is important to assess your plant collection[38:18] How tending to your plants can reveal interesting parallels between them and your lifeMentioned in our conversation:HygrometerHumidifiersSoltech Grow LightsLomi composterEspoma Insect ControlCurio cabinetsFor the full houseplant spring cleaning checklist,check our the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:SakaraMake eating healthier easier with science-backed, plant-rich nutrition programs and wellness essentials right to your door! Sakara provides ready-to-eat meals that are nutritionally designed to deliver results — from weight management and eased bloat, to boosted energy and clearer skin. Enjoy delicious meals that have a perfect balance of plants,protein and fats, while also taking control of your physical health.Get 20% off your first order when you use code "GROWINGJOY" at sakara.com.Espoma OrganicSpring cleaning is less complicated when you have the right products on hand! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Follow Maria and Growing Joy:Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha 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 ready to take your gardening skills to the next level and avoid common pitfalls? Spring is finally here, and it's time to get ready for gardening season! But before you start planting, it's important to know what not to do in your garden. That's why we've brought back Joe Lamp'l of joegardener.com to share his expertise on common gardening mistakes and how to avoid them. From beginners to seasoned gardeners, there's something for everyone in this fun and informative discussion!In this episode, we learn:[03:41] Why you shouldn’t fear mistakes when starting a garden![06:05] How gardening mistakes can lead to unexpected positive results and help you improve[08:00] What is the guideline for seed sowing density in intense planting method?[08:43] How often should you check on your seedlings to prevent legginess and promote growth?[10:15] Why seedlings need special care to grow properly[11:01] What are the biggest gardening mistakes?[12:23] #1 Forgetting to plan![15:15] What is the definition of garden planning and how should you do it?[16:13] What is necessary for successful gardening planning?[17:39] Plan your balcony garden with a diagram and use garden planners to organize your planting[20:00] How did Joe feel about starting gardening with two rose bushes?[21:07] What's the order for planning tasks (daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly) when planting for spring, summer, and fall?[24:00] Where can you find container varieties of plants specifically bred for limited-space gardening?[27:35] #2 Overdoing it![28:54] Why does gardening make us feel optimistic and ambitious?[32:34] #3 Improper spacing![35:27] Why are plants forgiving?[36:07] #4 Leaving your soil bare![38:50] How can one mitigate the negative consequences of bare soil?[40:31] Joe’s favorite type of mulch![42:37] #5 Planting too early or too late! Oopsies![44:20] How fix the problem if you started gardening either too early or too late?[47:23] Where can you find a personalized gift with a variety of colors, sizes, and sounds available?[49:35] List of garden hurdles you might face![49:34] #1 What if you have an apartment?[50:38] #2 What should you do if you have a garden with space but has low light or shade?[51:50] What if you don’t have a budget for gardening?[54:55] #3 What if you’re overwhelmed?[56:13] How to avoid weed overwhelm[59:18] What is Joe’s new course Organic Vegetable Gardening all about?[01:03:20] Joe explains what a single module in the OVG course would entail[01:06:55] The OVG course is on sale for $100 less during its launch week!Mentioned in our conversation:Territorial Seed Company’s Garden PlannersGrow Bag GardeningJoe’s BooksJoe’s newest course Organic Vegetable GardeningFor a list of Joe's gardening tips and tricks,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Territorial Seed CompanyFor this garden season, Territorial Seed Company is making sure no one is left behind. Grow plants that have been tested and bred specifically for container gardening, so you can maximize your limited space. Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden. Plus, it's a perfect personalized gift for your loved ones!Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.Follow Joe:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeTwitterPinterestFollow Maria 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.

As plant parents, we love our green babies, but sometimes we can get carried away with our collections. With life returning to normal, we might feel like it's time to simplify our spaces and make room for new experiences. Today's episode is all about embracing the joy of living with less. We're joined by Stephanie, the host of the Sustainable Minimalism podcast, to talk about how the principles of minimalism can bring positivity and happiness into our plant parenthood journeys. So get ready to enjoy some uplifting conversation on how to create a healthy and balanced plant collection!In this episode, we learn:[03:04] Maria’s recent trip to Florida and her experience with outdoor plants[05:58] How did Stephanie become a sustainable minimalist and what journey did she take to get there?[08:57] How can regret and shame be used as a tool for positive change?[10:23] Do you throw your stuff away, give it away, or return it?[13:01] Why you should not let the “investment shame” hold you back from letting go of items that no longer serve you[15:15] Where to get a variety of edible flowers that can add beauty to your garden and unique flavors to your dishes[17:41] Are there any hidden signs of overwhelm people should watch out for when deciding to go minimalist?[21:13] What tools can you use to resist the urge to buy something new when trying to declutter?[25:01] Books and resources Stephanie recommends for those interested in minimalism![26:33] What are the first steps you should take toward decluttering?[31:51] How wind chimes can be a beneficial addition to a mindfulness practice[34:28] Where can you find high-quality, safe, and eco-friendly indoor and outdoor gardening products?[36:13] Stephanie’s top minimalist takeaways that could inspire anyone interested in minimalism, and how it could apply to your plant collection[36:56] #1 Using cost per use as a metric![38:19] #2 Space is more valuable than your belongings![38:51] #3 Memories do not reside in items![39:47] #4 Multiples of an item keep us cluttered![42:04] How do you know if it's time to celebrate getting a new plant and be more intentional about what you buy?[43:07] #5 Pair your next purchase with something wonderful going on in your life![45:29] Follow Stephanie and Sustainable Minimalist!Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy Episode 111: The Art of the Plant Pause and Managing Plant Parent OverwhelmGrowing Joy Episode 86: Pause With Plants to Release Stress and Increase Calm With Brittany From the Pause With Plants PodcastMarie KondoJoshua Becker’s Becoming MinimalistSustainable Minimalist Episode 341: When Minimalism Feels OverwhelmingFolia CollectiveFor a detailed list of tips and tools for your minimalism journey,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Territorial Seed CompanyFor this garden season, Territorial Seed Company is telling you: eat your flowers! Edible flowers are not only beautiful, but they are also good for your body, and this company has your back. Skip the lines at the garden center and let Territorial Seed Company deliver top-of-the-line, healthy and hardy plants right to your door! They have a great line of pre-grown plants, an expansive seed catalog, and over 40 years of experience delivering the best seeds and plants for everyone's garden. Whether you are looking for berries, flowers or edible plants in either seed or seedling form, Territorial Seed Company has your back.Get 10% off by visiting territorialseed.com/growingjoy - discount applied at checkout.Espoma OrganicEspoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar powered plant, zero waste manufacturing and eco-friendly packaging.Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Wind River ChimesBring more peace, serenity, and magic into your home with chimes. Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for a new way to grow joy in your life and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect addition for your home or garden.Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on all Corinthian Bells wind chimes.Follow Stephanie:WebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitterPinterestFollow Maria 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 about the fascinating world of soil biology and the joy of creativity through plants? In this episode, we're joined by Adam from @dirty_roots_berlin to learn all about the importance of living soil, growing your own soil, and using nature to combat nature. Plus, we'll dive into how TikTok offers a refreshing and diverse platform for sharing your love for plants and exploring your unique personality! We'll also discuss how plants can help us reconnect with our sense of awe and wonder and inspire us to embrace creativity and curiosity in unexpected ways. So get ready to join us for an inspiring and enlightening discussion about all things green!In this episode, we learn:[00:05] How caring for plants helps us reconnect with our inner child and inner student[02:49] TikTok is teeming with creators sharing their plant expertise![05:13] Adam, creator of Dirty Roots Berlin, talks about his unique approach to plant care[07:24] The best way to take care of plants may not be what you think it is[08:24] Why Adam likes collecting large plants and those that serve a function (featuring Bee Baths!)[10:03] What inspired his bee garden and how did the idea of using a 3D printer for set pieces lead to the bee bath design?[11:50] How Adam's curiosity about plant nutrients and microbes led to an innovative approach to indoor gardening[16:10] Why did Adam move to Berlin and how has his plant collection changed?[18:56] Why is it important to have the best bedding for a good night's sleep?[21:24] On the importance of replicating natural conditions for successful houseplant care[24:26] What are those “globes” and what makes them different?[28:17] What is soil biology, or living soil, and how does it contribute to nutrient cycling for plants?[37:52] How can plants help people reconnect with their inner creativity and awe?[39:51] Should you sanitize your houseplant scissors?[43:41] What are some cost-effective ways to propagate plants, and why is failure important?[46:59] What's different about the plants in Berlin's grocery stores and garden centers?[48:00] How can grow lights help bring spring and summer indoors year-round?[49:55] Adam's distinct method of engaging with his audience on TikTok.[55:32] How do TikTok and Instagram engagement differ?[58:32] Have you seen Adam’s planty bathroom?[01:00:09] Who are Adam's favorite TikTok creators?[01:01:19] Where can you follow Adam on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Bee BathsGrowing Joy Episode 04: Summer Rayne Oakes: Plants for the Advanced Plant Parent and Practicing PatienceChristopher DurangThe Plant ProfFor a deeper dive into soil biology and the fun world of PlantTok,check out the full show notes and blog here!Thank you to our episode sponsors:Cozy EarthSleep is foundational for optimum health, like having quality soil for our plants to thrive in, so doesn't it make sense to have bedding that reflects that? Cozy Earth's best-selling bamboo sheet set is temperature-regulating and incredibly soft, and it's made from 100% premium viscose from bamboo which makes it not only feel like silk but actually truly cooling to touch. Plus, they have a lengthy warranty and everything you need for bedding with a variety of luxury pillows, sheets, blankets and even PJS!Check out cozyearth.com and enjoy an exclusive offer of 35% off site wide when you use the code “GROWINGJOY".Soltech SolutionsSoltech Solutions makes the grow lights you’ve heard me talk about for years: whether you are looking for a pendant light, track lighting, or a simple bulb to screw into any standard light fixture, Soltech has got you covered. They offer quality products with great customer service, free shipping, and a 5-year warranty. Keep the sun shining and the plants green inside your home with Soltech Solutions.Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code bloom15.Follow Adam:WebsiteFacebookInstagramTikTokYouTubeFollow Maria 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.