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

Plant Side Chat #2 - Planty Friendships for Friendship February on Bloom and Grow Radio! We dive into the beauty of plant friendships and why they are so important! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I’m very excited to welcome back Chris Satch to the show! Chris is the Plant Scientist and Head of Education at The Sill (www.thesill.com) and is my go to guy for any plant issues I have with my personal collection. The Sill is an amazing plant shop located in Chinatown, NY that not only sells plants, but also hosts monthly educational events and ships potted plants nationwide. I got a lot of requests this winter for an episode on grow lights, and took some time to think about who I wanted my guest to be. I knew that Chris was the perfect person to help break down the science of grow lights because… I don’t really know anything about them! If you listened to Episode 07 with Olena from @TheOperatingSystem when she mentioned her grow lamps, I actually had to ask her what they were because I had no idea you could use light bulbs to help your houseplants grow. How far I’ve come in such a short time! This is a very special episode for Bloom and Grow Radio because it’s the first episode I’ve crowd sourced my listeners for their recommendations on which grow lights THEY use. The first half of the episode is my interview with Chris and the second half is my roundup of all of the recommended bulbs and companies that you all have found success with. Also… DISCOUNTS! I was able to reach out to several of your recommended companies and they have offered special exclusive discounts for Bloom and Grow listeners- so stay tuned till the end to hear about these special offers! If you are interested in learning more about photosynthesis or indoor grow light… this episode is for you! If you want to know what lights other successful plant parents are using and are interested in discounts on some of them… this episode is for you! In this episode we learn: - What photosynthesis is - Why photosynthesis is necessary for a plant - How light appears to the human eye and what it is broken down into - Difference between red, blue, yellow, orange green light and why plants need each type of light - What can happen to a plant if it’s not given a full spectrum of light - Is the Kelvin scale actually important? - The different types of grow lamps and which work best - Crowdsourcing! Which lights and companies you Bloom and Grow plant people are loving! - Discounts! Special discounts for Bloom and Grow Radio listeners from companies you guys have recommended! List of plants that YOU are loving! Modern Sprout (www.modsprout.com) is offering 10% off for Bloom and Grow listeners with https://www.modsprout.com/discount/B&G10 or using B&G10 at checkout. They have two grow light products, the Growbar (which I am currently installing in my bookshelf!) and their Grow House. Their LED lights are full spectrum and have a soft white light and at its highest light, because you can adjust how strong it is, it’s 4500 lumens! The lifespan of their lights runs up to 12 years and the lights produce little heat and are water resistant. My favorite thing about them is they have a 3 setting timer that dims to mimic dawn and dusk and you can set to 8, 12 r 16 hours. Soltech Solutions (https://soltechsolutionsllc.com/) is offering 15% off for Bloom and Grow Radio listeners with the discount code BloomandGrow15. (They are currently having a 30% sale on their website and the Bloom and Grow discount can be applied ON TOP of ther 30%- so that’s 45% total!). They use wide spectrum LED lights that range from 2100 to 4200 lumens (depending on size) and appear soft white and mimic the sun. The lights look real sexy and have a modern, minimalist design that you can install in a variety of ways and come in two sizes. The feature that excites me the most about Soltech Solutions is their beautifully designed industrial floor lamp stands that are adjustable in height. They are perfectly suited for an indoor tree, like my lime tree I'm always talking about, or a fiddle leaf fig or other popular taller indoor plants. Diane from @howtosucculents who was on Episode 3 of the show, @walt_1990, @thelittlestpinecone and @fuccing_succs all say they use the t5 florescent tubes. Olena of @theoperatingsystem who was on Episode 07 shared the lights she uses with me: http://amzn.to/2rOewC2 (she likes the following two bulbs for the arc of they light they provide) http://amzn.to/2DIAesF http://amzn.to/2FuAY5f http://amzn.to/2rSpRRw Alessia of @apartmentbotanist who is one of my #plantfriendsIRL also sent me her list of lights she loves: http://amzn.to/2rTTXo6 (she uses these in her grow tank she created) http://amzn.to/2DOrKEN (she likes these because they easily clip to various surfaces around her apartment) Go forth and illuminate your worlds as you see fit! #keepblooming and #keepgrowing Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Perry is the entrepreneur and self titled “geek” behind the “Mr Plant Geek” empire. But he is, in no way, a tradition “geek”. I like to call him the “bad boy of the plant world." You might know Michael from his Instagram account (@Mr_PlantGeek) or www.mrplantgeek.com which have photos and blogs about the worlds most interesting plants. But they also have a collection of selfies showcasing his rugged good looks, impressive collection of tattoos and ever changing hair color. You also might recognize him from his “Rude Botany” line of t-shirts which have sayings like “Philadelphus erectus” or “Rubus cockburnianus” in bold lettering across the chest. Michael approaches plants with a light hearted, fun approach that is completely unique and absolutely fun to follow along with. But don’t be fooled, although his approach to plants is lighthearted, Michael seriously knows his plants. He spent years developing and creating new creations like the “TomTato” and “Egg and Chips” plants for Thompson & Morgan, England’s largest mail order plant company and has a vast knowledge of all aspects of horticulture. After a long and successful career there, he took the leap to become a full time freelancer as “Mr Plant Geek”. He now travels the world lecturing at different garden clubs, trade shows, and can be seen on QVC, BBC’s Great British Garden Revival and The One Show. His website is the go to blog for topics ranging from plant care, introducing new plants and gardening trends, and even travel tips about his constant travels. Today we have a lovely “plant chat” about many things: from how he built his Mr Plant Geek Empire to his tips for traveling Plant Parents on caring for your plants when you are out of town. Michael is a unique and interesting guy with a lovely point of view and I’m thrilled to share our chat with you! In this episode you’ll learn: Michael’s start at Thompson & Morgan designing the “Tomtato” and “Egg and Chips" plant What new types of houseplants Michael is excited about His predictions for the new hot houseplants to come onto the scene All about Michael’s constant travels and finding houseplants in the wild How he grew the “Mr Plant Geek” empire after leaving his longtime custom created job at Thompson & Morgan Michaels list of his favorite houseplants Tips for caring for your houseplants when you leave for vacation Follow Michael: Instagram: @mr_plantgeek Facebook: @mrplantgeek Twitter: @mr_plantgeek Website: www.mrplantgeek.com Follow Bloom and Grow Radio: Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio Website: www.bloomandgrowradio.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

First part of the Plant Side Chat series where we will explore the lessons learned from caring for plants. Today's topic: Bloom and Grow at Your Own Rate. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Meagan Rosson is the creator behind the Instagram account: Plant_Lady_is_the_New_Cat_Lady. Her two gorgeous cats: Mack and Brooklyn, are quickly becoming “Instagram Famous“ due to Meagan’s hilarious Instagram stories of their impressive acrobatics around her one bedroom apartment and their relationship with her growing collection of 60+ plants. Meagan and I met early on in both of our plant journeys and have watched each other’s love for plants grow. Since I have no pets, I knew Meagan would be the perfect person to discuss the ups and downs with living with cats and plants and the toxic plants to avoid if you have Cats. We have a fun conversation about her hilarious stories of joining her two loves. She also gives some advice and her perspective on how to live successfully with cats and plants, and how to avoid choosing plants that could be toxic if ingested. Disclaimer: we are not Veterinarians, plant toxicity specialists or plant scientists. If you have questions about plant toxicity we encourage you to check out ASPCA’s website (link below) and make decisions you are comfortable with for your Urban Jungle. In this episode we learn: - Meagan’s journey from no plants to 60 + plants and the creation of @Plant_Lady_is_the_New_Cat_Lady - How her love for plants started in a Plant 101 class with Bloom and Grow Radio Alum, Summer Rayne Oakes of Homestead Brooklyn! - How to make sure your plants in your apartment are non toxic for your cats - Tips for having cats and plants live harmoniously together - Natural deterrents for keeping your pets away from your plants (links to purchase below) - How to band-aid your plant when your pet nibbles or plays too aggressively with it - A basic guide for how to find out what plants are toxic, different levels of toxicity and where to find solid information to set you up for success - Signs to look for incase your cat has ingested a poisonous plant - Why Meagan thinks everyone should have houseplants To Follow Meagan, Mack and Brooklyn find them on Instagram @plant_lady_is_the_new_cat_lady To Follow Bloom and Grow Radio: Instagram: @BloomandGrowRadio www.bloomandgrowradio.com Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio iTunes and Stitcher https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owners/basics/top-10-plants-poisonous-to-pets/ To purchase the all natural deterrent sprays Meagan mentions click here: Nature's Miracle Just for Cats No Scratch Spray: http://amzn.to/2CAcnKW Grannick's Bitter Apple Spray: http://amzn.to/2yUtpRH   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

By day, Toronto based Darryl Cheng is a Business Analyst for a Tech Company. By night, he is the creator of the incredibly popular blog and Instagram account - Houseplant Journal. Darryl’s commitment to excellence and his passion for plants and thirst for knowledge have turned him into the king of the internet houseplant world. What was initially a hobby Tumblr page has turned into an Instagram account with over 200,000 followers, a go to blog for anything plant related (www.houseplantjournal.com), the beginnings of his very own houseplant care book and plant time lapse videos that have gone viral around the world. Get ready… this is an epic episode for Bloom and Grow Radio. We cover a variety of topics, have deep thoughts about our plant friends, a little “dirty talk” and learn some secrets behind his collection. And if you stay tuned through the end of the show, Darryl gives us a sneak peak of another talent and passion of his, that is equally as impressive as his houseplant collection- but you’ll only find out if you stay tuned! If you are interested in learning more about different aspects of soil for your houseplants, this episode is for you! If you are interested in learning more about Darryl’s journey as a Plant Parent- tune in! In this episode we discuss: - The beginning of Darryl’s interest in houseplants and the creation of Houseplant Journal - The journey from a small Tumlr hobby account to an Instagram account and blog with over 200,000 followers - The story behind his “insta-famous” Monstera - The story behind his famous time lapse videos - “Dirty Talk” with Darryl! Darryl breaks down all you need to know about soil for your houseplants - Organic vs Chemical Fertilizers - The importance of soil aeration - The reasons behind his Houseplant Care Book he is working on and how it will differ from the tradition Houseplant Books - Any houseplant’s “subjective lifespan” Follow Darryl on: Instagram and Facebook: @houseplantjournal Twitter: @houseplantjrnl Website: www.houseplantjournal.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/houseplantjournal Follow Bloom and Grow Radio on: Instagram and Facebook: @BloomandGrowRadio Website: www.bloomandgrowradio.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Olena Shmahalo, otherwise known as TheOperatingSystem on Instagram is the Art Director of Quanta Magazine by day, and has an Etsy shop where she sells her plant cuttings and plant themed merchandise by night. Originally from the Ukraine, Olena has been growing her Urban Jungle of over 150 plants over the span of several apartments. Her current apartment is a masterpiece of Urban Jungle artistry, and her photos that are envied on Instagram are not to be missed (give her a follow at @TheOperatingSystem). We dive into how she created her Urban Jungle, tips for having a successful relationship with so many plants and she walks us through how to propagate plants for ourselves! If you are interested in learning the stories behind her amazing Instagram Photos or curious about how to propagate your own plants, this episode is for you! In this episode you will learn: - The evolution of Olena’s Urban Jungle - Tourism tips for Plant People - The secret to how Olena keeps her plants happy - Relationship advice for Plant Parents - Information about the joys of her Etsy shop and the process of buying and sending her cuttings - Propagation 101 Follow Olena on: Instagram: @TheOperatingSystem Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheOperatingSystem?ref=shop_sugg (temporarily closed because Olena is on vacation, but she will be back ASAP!) Here is the amazon link to the Propagation Book Olena mentions in today’s episode: http://amzn.to/2ibQNUW Visit the blog for photos mentioned in the interview: http://bloomandgrowradio.com/2017/12/04/episode-07-theoperatingsystem/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Part two of my Christmas Tree extravaganza is all about celebrating you houseplants enthusiasts who want to take the leap, and jump into the joys of having a LIVING, potted Christmas Tree. This trend has become more popular over the years, and as I was researching it, I came across an amazing article by Joe Lamp’l about this intriguing idea. After reading it, I knew he would be the perfect guest for this episode and I am BEYOND thrilled to have him! Joe is a podcaster himself with his amazing gardening podcast, The Joe Gardener show. He is also the Creator, Host and Executive Producer of the award-winning national PBS series, Growing a Greener World® and Founder of joegardener.com. He is also the previous host of Fresh from the Garden on DIY Network, as well as on-air contributor to The Today Show, Good Morning America and The Weather Channel. He is a gardening and podcast veteran who takes us through everything we need to know about jumping on the Living Christmas Tree Trend and the joys of replanting your tree and cherishing it forever. If it’s something that interests you, this episode is for you! In this episode we discuss: What a Living Christmas Tree actually is What the options are for using your tree after the holiday season The entire process from selection to replanting of a Living Christmas Tree Average length of time for a Living Christmas Tree to be indoors The secret to preserving moisture in your Living Christmas Tree The experiment that might cause me to get two trees this year… The importance of mulch Proper technique for replanting your tree Using your tree as an heirloom   Follow Joe on: GrowingAGreenerWorld.com joegardener.com Facebook.com/joegardener facebook.com/GGWTV twitter.com/joegardener twitter.com/GGWTV instagram.com/joelampl   Follow Bloom and Grow Radio on:  Instagram @bloomandgrowradio Facebook @bloomandgrowradio   Here is the blog I mentioned! https://www.growingagreenerworld.com/live-christmas-trees/  Are you inspired? I hope so! Make sure to check out Episode 5 about cut Christmas trees if Living Christmas trees don’t fit into your Holiday this year!   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas trees are on every corner of NYC and it’s time to pick one up and bring it into your home to celebrate the holidays. Although a cut Christmas Tree isn’t exactly a living houseplant… Christmas Trees could be argued to be one of the oldest indoor plant traditions around which is why I thought it would make a fun and interesting episode! Mary Jeanne Packer, Executive Director of The Christmas Tree Farmers Association of New York, takes us through the best practices for caring for a cut Christmas Tree. Founded in 1953, the mission of the Christmas Tree Farmers’ Association of New York (CTFANY) is to empower its members in the development of the real Christmas tree industry.  CTFANY provides information and opportunities for its members that include national visibility and stature, quality production, preservation, education, pride in their products and customer satisfaction.  They provide education to the public about the real tree industry, enable the public to purchase and enjoy the benefits of farm fresh and fragrant real Christmas trees and evergreen products.  At the same time, they protect the environment that surrounds us and enhance the contributions of the Christmas tree industry to New York’s economy. If you are interested in learning the best ways to care for your cut Christmas tree this season- this episode is for you! If you are interested in learning about having an actual potted, LIVING Christmas tree this year… check out Episode 06! In this episode you we discuss: Why a cut Christmas Tree is actually better for the environment than an artificial tree The various ways to recycle your cut tree after the holidays Best practices for having a Cut Christmas Tree, from selecting it, to taking it home, how to position and properly care for it and how to properly recycle it after the season. Myth Busters! Are chemicals and Sprite needed to feed your Christmas Tree? Listen to find out! Shopping local to celebrate the holiday spirit. For more information on The Christmas Tree Farmers Association of NY visit http://www.christmastreesny.org   For more information on Bloom and Grow Radio visit www.bloomandgrowradio.com and following us on Instagram @bloomandgrowradio Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I learned about Summer Rayne Oaks when I first started researching “Urban Jungles” in NYC. She is a Model/Activist/Entrepreneur who is famous for her Brooklyn apartment in which she has over 670 plants. She has dedicated the last decade of her life to being a champion for sustainable practices in the fashion, beauty and food industries. She wears many hats including being named the first “eco model”. She has a sugar detox program (sugardetoxme.com), a cookbook, a style guide, a podcast (Idea Nosh), and founded Le Souk, a global materials marketplace. She is a serial entrepreneur with a degree in environmental science from Cornell and a passion for plants. She is the founder of Homestead Brooklyn, a blog and Youtube channel created to help bring more nature to urban living. And to top it all off… she was even the muse and inspiration for the Toyota Prius C! What can’t she do? Her Youtube channel, Plant One On Me is packed with informative videos about plant care and fun DIY projects. If you are curious about Summer Rayne’s journey to 670+ plants in her NYC apartment, this episode is for you! If you are an advanced Plant Parent looking to nerd out, this is the episode for you! In this episode we discuss: Plant Swaps as a way to connect behind the Instagram photos Her plant collection of 670+ in her Brooklyn apartment Preparing houseplants for Winter months Bringing Plants in the shower The appealing qualities of Peperomia Best Plants for the Advanced Plant Parent Summer Rayne’s time as an “undercover activist” in the Fashion Industry as an Eco Model Homestead Brooklyn’s mission and purpose The Power of Showing up Practicing patience and going beyond perfection Follow Summer Rayne at Instagram @homesteadbrooklyn Facebook @homesteadbrooklyn YouTube @summerrayneoakes "Plant One On Me" Website: www.homesteadbrooklyn.com  Twitter: @sroakes  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.