So what if instead of feeling mysterious, kind of weird, and sometimes dramatic, begonia care was actually much simpler than it seems? Begonias are such a beautiful and diverse family of plants, with so many stunning varieties, yet they’re often misunderstood. While they can be disappointing for some plant parents, the truth is that indoor begonia care can be surprisingly easy when you understand what they need.

That's why I am bringing a very old episode of Growing Joy back from the archives in this best of Growing Joy series where we are joined by Marc Hachadourian, otherwise known as @orchidmark. And he is the head honcho at New York Botanical Garden.

Marc joined me to break down why Begonias look the way they do, where they come from, and how we can keep them thriving indoors. From Angel Wings to Rex Begonias, this conversation covers practical watering tips, the importance of humidity for plants, and how small adjustments in holistic plant care can help plant lovers trade begonia fear for confidence and curiosity. And honestly, it’s making me want to go out and buy another angel wing polka dot begonia right this very minute!

In this episode, we learn:

• Marc's love of Begonias
• The Begonias (and other plants) that were featured in American Gothic
• The wide variety of Begonias available to plant parents
• Marc's famous Houseplant Hospital and Humidity Hacks
• General care guidelines for light, soil, and watering of Begonias
• Where Begonias grow in the natural world
• Troubleshooting answers: how to deal with leggy Begonias and water damage!

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Plant Parenting by Leslie Halleck
• Orchidmarc

What seed have you always wanted to grow but felt too intimidated to try?

Check out the full show notes and blog for the ultimate beginner-friendly seed starting guide!

Follow NYBG

Website

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

TikTok

Bluesky

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @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 the weight of the world lift as you dig your hands into the soil? Join me, in today's episode of "Growing Joy with Plants" as I sit down with the incredible Diane Dreher, a professor emeritus and author whose journey through gardening has shaped her understanding of healing in nature. With a passion for plants that was nurtured by her grandfather, Diane shares her inspiring story of how she has cultivated her love for gardening despite the challenges of a transient lifestyle, thanks to her father's Air Force career. Together, we explore the profound connection between nature, gardening, and personal well-being, revealing how healing in nature can transform our mental health and foster a sense of community.

Throughout our conversation, Diane emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of engaging with the outdoors, highlighting how simple acts like mindful gardening can alleviate stress, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. Her research in positive psychology introduces us to the empowering concept of 'active hope,' which encourages us to set goals and create pathways to achieve them. We discuss the alarming disconnection from nature and each other, a problem that has only grown with our reliance on technology, and how this contributes to feelings of isolation among plant parents.

Diane also shares insights from her latest book, "Pathways to Inner Peace," which offers various strategies for reconnecting with nature and fostering a deeper sense of belonging and purpose. Through personal anecdotes and scientific studies, we illustrate the healing power of nature, community, and mindfulness, encouraging listeners to cultivate connections that not only enhance their well-being but also inspire hope. Whether you’re struggling with plant pests, looking for watering tips, or seeking advice on repotting plants, this episode is packed with valuable information for anyone on their plant parenthood journey.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of holistic plant care, joyful living, and the essential role that plants play in our mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to enrich their home-based wellness routine through the healing in nature. Tune in now, and let’s grow joy together!

In this episode, we learn:

• [01:59] Join my 2026 Growing Joy live community experience!
• [03:04] Meet Dr. Diane Dreher (hope researcher, positive psychology coach, and nature scholar)
• [05:54] What’s the difference between wishing and active hope
• [07:15] How doom-scrolling quietly erodes motivation and creativity
• [08:04] Why hopelessness is really a symptom of disconnection
• [09:28] The science behind nature walks and creative thinking
• [12:00] Healing through nature is free and still underused!
• [13:15] Lao Tzu, water, bamboo, and the strength of flexibility
• [14:13] How Daoist philosophy shaped modern psychology and leadership
• [14:54] What is forest bathing?
• [15:34] The Continuous Vegetable Garden by Charlie Nardozzi
• [17:31] The hospital window study that changed how we view healing
• [18:18] Forest medicine, immunity, and cancer-fighting cells
• [20:30] Why Pathways to Inner Peace was written
• [20:49] How smartphones reshaped anxiety, loneliness, and attention
• [22:50] Habits to break to reconnect with nature
• [27:42] Why joy and longevity are tied to purpose
• [27:59] How awe regulates the nervous system and expands hope
• [30:16] Why awe and hope live in the same emotional space
• [31:52] Simple ways to cultivate awe and connection daily!
• [32:04] #1 Mindful presence
• [32:47] #2 Mindful breathing
• [34:52] Why cooking with herbs is a collaboration with nature
• [36:16] The biophilia hypothesis and mirrored growth
• [37:46] Community as medicine for modern isolation
• [38:10] Meditation, compassion, and quieting the inner critic
• [41:27] A pivotal U-turn that changed Diane’s life path
• [45:01] Growth mindset vs. fixed mindset in real life
• [45:18] Where to find Diane online

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Inner Gardening: A Seasonal Path to Inner Peace by Diane Dreher
• Pathways to Inner Peace by Diane Dreher
• Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher Keltner
• Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li
• Growing Joy Episode 322: From Plant Care to Nature Therapy: A Solo Heart to Heart
• Join my 2026 Growing Joy live community experience

If you're needing a little more hope and light in your life,

here are the full show notes and blog for Dr Dreher's expert advice.

Follow Diane:

Website
Facebook
LinkedIn
Bsky
Books
Meditations

Thank you to our episode sponsor:

Quarto: The Continuous Vegetable Garden by Charlie Nardozzi

Grab The Continuous Vegetable Gardenat 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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @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 new to gardening, seed starting indoors can feel scary and overwhelming. I know it did for me. For a long time, I stuck to buying seedlings because starting seeds felt like too much. The equipment, the space, the timing, the fear of doing it wrong. All of it can feel intimidating, especially for new plant parents.

In today’s episode, we’re bringing back a favorite from the Growing Joy archives all about starting seeds indoors for beginners, featuring the ultimate seed-starting expert, Joe Lamp’l of joegardener.com. Joe is a longtime garden mentor and friend of mine, and in this conversation, he completely demystifies seed starting basics. We break down the why behind the how, making seed starting feel approachable, doable, and genuinely fun.

Some of the most flavorful tomatoes I’ve ever grown came from seed. When you grow vegetables from seed, you’re not limited to what’s available at the garden center. You get access to incredible varieties you’ll never find as seedlings, and that’s one of the most rewarding parts of gardening.

In this episode, we learn:

• [00:00:10] Maria shares her favorite experiences and benefits of seed starting
• [00:02:11] Where to get the best seeds for your spring and summer gardens this year
• [00:06:20] Joe demystifies seed starting and why you shouldn’t be nervous about starting your own garden!
• [00:07:24] What Joe does for a living and where you can check out for more of his gardening tips
• [00:09:39] Why Joe emphasizes understanding the why’s of gardening and plant parenthood
• [00:10:17] Maria shares her own experience with growing seeds and why she didn’t give it a ‘real shot’ prior
• [00:11:12] Joe talks about the rewarding feeling of starting from a seed versus seedling
• [00:12:43] The sense of ownership that seed starting instills in us
• [00:13:31] How growing your own garden expands your food choices
• [00:14:26] What Maria learned about seed starting versus seedlings when she grew her own tomatoes
• [00:16:47] Joe answers the question we’re all thinking about: how much do we need for a successful seed starting setup?
• [00:16:56] Breaking down the materials, the costs, the alternatives, and the conditions you need for seed starting
• [00:22:14] What kind of soil is ideal for seed starting?
• [00:24:10] Joe’s recommendations for seed tray sizes, compartment depth, and seed tray materials
• [00:28:06] When is the best time to start on your seeds? What is the most important date you need to know when growing your own seeds?
• [00:30:20] Where Maria is sourcing her seeds from for this gardening season
• [00:33:55] Do seeds have an expiration date? Joe emphasizes the importance of buying seeds from a good and established company
• [00:35:40] Do we need to be looking out for non-GMO seeds?
• [00:36:19] Is it possible to grow the seed of a fruit that you just ate? Joe discusses the difference between hybrid and open pollinated non-hybrid
• [00:38:17] Now that you’ve got your seed starting setup, how do you put your seeds in the soil?
• [00:39:01] What is the ideal light situation for seed starting?
• [00:39:38] The step-by-step process of seed starting, what you should expect when you’ve planted your seeds, and the most intensive part of the process according to Joe
• [00:43:10] The process of thinning and why Maria finds it SO frustrating
• [00:45:38] Is there a right and only way to germinate your seeds? For Maria’s mom, a damp towel in a Ziploc bag is the way to go
• [00:46:30] How to check if your seeds are still good
• [00:47:50] How does cold stratification work and why do some plants need it? Joe explains the what’s, the why’s, and the how’s of this process
• [00:49:46] What you can learn from Joe’s Master Seed Starting class
• [00:50:38] The importance of building an engaged and active community of seed starters
• [00:54:57] An exciting offer from Joe and Maria on how to be a better seed starter!
• [00:57:41] What Maria is excited about with her seed starting this season!

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Take the Master Seed Starting Course
• Growing Joy Episode 06: Living, Potted Christmas Trees with Joe Lamp’l
• Growing Joy Episode 72: Fall Garden Plants and Projects with Joe Lamp’l
• Growing Joy Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier and My MOM
• Cultivating Place Podcast by Jennifer Jewell

What seed have you always wanted to grow but felt too intimidated to try?

Check out the full show notes and blog for the ultimate beginner-friendly seed starting guide!

Follow Joe

Website

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

Pinterest

X

Podcast

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @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 quality of water you use can be just as crucial for your plants as it is for your health? 🌱 Join me on this enlightening episode of Growing Joy with Plants as I chat with Cydian, the brilliant mind behind Pure Water Northwest and a true water quality expert. Together, we explore the often-overlooked yet vital topic of water quality and its profound impact on both our well-being and the health of our beloved plants.

Cydian's journey into the world of water quality began with a personal story that many can relate to - his daughter’s health challenges and his experiences managing properties plagued by poor water quality. This episode is packed with insights that every plant lover and dedicated plant parent should hear! We dive deep into the differences between legal and health standards for drinking water, revealing that just because water is legally deemed safe, it doesn't mean it's healthy for you or your plants.

Throughout our conversation, we unravel the complexities of the hydrologic cycle, discuss various contaminants that can affect water quality, and emphasize the importance of customizing water treatment solutions to fit your unique needs. If you’ve ever struggled with plants dying or battling pesky plant pests, this episode is for you! We also touch on how water quality impacts plant health, particularly focusing on the effects of chlorine, salts, and pH levels that can wreak havoc on sensitive plants.

You'll walk away with practical solutions, such as the benefits of reverse osmosis for improving water quality, as well as tips on understanding local water reports. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant parenthood journey, this episode empowers you to take charge of your water quality for healthier living and joyful gardening.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of water quality and plant care together!

In this episode, we learn:

• [03:19] How did Cydian Kauffman become the water quality expert?
• [04:29] EPA’s Legal water limits vs. healthy water
• [05:14] Why eczema, dry skin, and brittle hair can start with your tap water
• [07:55] What’s the hydrologic cycle?
• [08:21] Microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and “forever chemicals” in everyday water
• [09:27] What’s the standard practice for tap water treatment across United States?
• [10:14] Why almost all municipal water uses chlorine (and what carbon filters really do)
• [11:53] Hard vs soft water
• [12:30] Why water that is too soft can damage pipes and plants
• [13:22] What’s the ideal hardness/softness of water?
• [14:23] pH and alkaline
• [15:15] Espoma Organic
• [16:58] The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture
• [20:39] What are the three biggest water issues affecting skin, appliances, and health?
• [22:05] Forever chemicals explained
• [25:52] What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
• [27:32] Why salts/sodium in tap water can lead to leaf burn and root stress
• [30:27] Manukora honey
• [31:15] How salts cause leaf burn through osmotic pressure
• [35:00] How to find what’s in your city’s water
• [37:05] Other ways to fix water quality issues (carbon filters, softeners, reverse osmosis)
• [40:36] What does structured water or “water coherence” mean?
• [42:46] Where to find Cydian online + how he water consults remotely
• [43:43] Real-world water success stories that changed lives

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Growing Joy Episode 317: Discover Coherent Water with Mario Brainovic of Analemma Water
• The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor by Gerald Pollack
• EWG Tap Water Database
• Safe Drinking Water Act: Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR) | US EPA

If you want to check your area's water quality,

check out the full show notes and blog for Cydian's guide!

Follow Cydian:

Website
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
LinkedIn

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Quarto: The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture by Brandy Hall

Grab The Complete Guide to Home Permacultureat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @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 low waste plant parenthood began with just one houseplant? In this episode, I’m joined by urban farmer and plant coach Nick Cutsumpas (aka Farmer Nick) to explore how sustainable plant care can become a powerful gateway to mindful gardening and environmental action.

As part of the Best of Growing Joy series, we revisit this meaningful conversation from the archives to look at plant parenthood through a holistic lens, one rooted in intention, awareness, and joyful living. Nick shares how caring for plants, even in a small apartment, can support low waste living and regenerative habits without perfection or pressure.

This episode breaks down holistic plant care in a realistic, approachable way, offering plant parents simple shifts they can make to care for their plants, their well-being, and the planet.

In this episode, we learn:

• [00:02:26] Introducing Nick Cutsumpas and episode key ideas
• [00:07:18] What Nick does, what started his plant journey (mothers DO know best!), and how plants served as his ‘saving grace’ when he moved into the city
• [00:10:38] Check out Nick in Netflix’s new show The Big Flower Fight!
• [00:11:14] What is regenerative environmental action? Nick explains sustainability vs regenerative
• [00:13:22] Are houseplant people practicing regenerative methods with their plants? According to Nick, to see is to believe when it comes to taking care of our environment
• [00:15:01] How Maria realized she could be doing more sustainable practices
• [00:15:22] Maria’s current idea obsession: plant blindness — Nature Not Furniture!
• [00:16:32] What Maria thinks of ‘zero waste’ and her reservations with the movement
• [00:17:17] Nick shares why he thinks plant blindness is similar to waste blindness
• [00:17:37] Why Nick strives for low waste consumption vs zero waste, how we as consumers can apply low waste consumption to the products we buy
• [00:19:45] Why the time to be more conscious is NOW more than ever and how taking care of plants reminds us that we can take action
• [00:20:47] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on low waste
• [00:21:45] Low Waste Beginner Tip #1: Reuse everything
• [00:22:46] Do you have tons of bubble wrap from your online orders? Save them for your next plant cutting gift!
• [00:23:50] What is ‘waste’? For Nick, it’s everything that ends up in a landfill
• [00:24:38] Maria’s lightbulb moment on her waste consumption: New York’s composting system
• [00:25:11] The negative effects of plastics in our environment and how we can be smart and responsible with our plastic consumption
• [00:26:54] Why we should be cautious about greenwashing, waste segregation, and biodegradable vs compostable materials
• [00:28:24] Nick’s sustainability influences
• [00:29:13] Low Waste Tip #2: Buy quality over quantity (Yes, you save more money this way!)
• [00:30:12] Nick’s sustainability progress: he hasn’t bought anything new in more than a year! The secret? Thrifting!
• [00:31:52] The eco-friendly furniture and mattress stores that Nick recommends
• [00:33:56] How the pandemic enabled more waste production
• [00:34:48] Why the most impact can be achieved through collective action; ‘10% is better’
• [00:35:14] The BEST recycled and sustainable wall planters and the BEST plant kits to give this Holiday season!
• [00:38:56] Nick reveals the most common mistakes we all do when it comes to composting
• [00:39:54] How to REALLY begin your low waste journey
• [00:40:39] Why you need to wash your recyclables
• [00:41:22] Low Waste Tip #3: Find bulk stores and bring your own jars
• [00:41:50] How Nick manages to do zero-waste grocery shopping
• [00:42:25] What is ‘produce paralysis’? What is Nick’s proposed solution to packaging waste?
• [00:44:04] Low Waste Tip #4: Avoid single-use plastic in the produce section
• [00:45:24] Nick’s low waste hack: Put the jar in warm water for 10 minutes to remove the adhesive label, and reuse the jar for drinking or plant propagation!
• [00:46:47] Low Waste Tip #5: Don’t be shy to ask if you can use your own containers for your consumables!
• [00:47:39] Maria weighs in on the different straws from her own experiences (make sure you clean them!)
• [00:49:28] What do we do with our plastic nursery pots? a. bring them to a nursery, b. cache, c. make a tent for your drainage hole
• [00:53:38] Low Waste Tip #6: Grow something new in your used nursery pots
• [00:54:06] The company that Nick trusts to recycle his plastics
• [00:55:31] Propagating your plants can also help your recycle and upcycle
• [00:56:30] Low Waste Tip #7: Choose sustainable soil options
• [00:57:44] Low Waste Tip #8: Know your plant number! (we’re serious!)
• [00:59:00] Your plant consumption should be healthy AND environmentally-responsible
• [01:00:28] Low Waste Tip #9: Buy your plants from your local businesses
• [01:01:46] Plant shops that Nick and Maria recommend
• [01:04:05] Listener Question #1: Can you compost perlite?
• [01:04:49] Listener Question #2: Are there alternatives to plastic nursery pots and stickers?
• [01:06:28] Why you should support CSA
• [01:07:47] Why low waste and sustainable living is important to Nick
• [01:09:09] Our responsibility to our environment as plant parents!
• [01:10:24] Maria’s realizations and future commitment to the low waste living movement

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Produce Paralysis Blog by Nick Cutsumpas
• BAGR Episode How to Manage a Large Plant Collection
• Netflix’s The Big Flower Fight
• Pela Case
• Lucy Biggers of NowThis
• Medley Furniture
• Avocado Green Mattress
• Recover Brands
• WallyGro
• Precious Plastic
• Folia Collective
• Espoma
• Greenery Unlimited
• noissue
• Crop Swap LA

Which small low-waste swap could your plants inspire you to try this week?

Check out the full show notes and blog for practical, beginner-friendly ideas to get started!

Follow Nick

Website

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

LinkedIn

Book

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @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 stopped to consider the stories that trees could tell if they could speak? In this episode of Growing Joy with Plants, I’m thrilled to welcome the incredible Beronda Montgomery, a renowned botanist and author, as we dive deep into her groundbreaking new book, When Trees Testify. Together, we explore the profound connection between humans and plants, particularly how trees bear witness to history, including the often-overlooked narratives of black American history. This conversation is not just about botany; it’s about understanding the emotional and historical significance that trees hold in our lives.

Beronda shares her enlightening journey from studying the intricate world of botany to uncovering the rich tapestry of stories that trees represent, especially in relation to African American history. We discuss the themes of land trauma, the importance of storytelling in understanding plant life, and how trees serve as living witnesses to the past. You’ll hear about Baronda’s transformative visit to a plantation that ignited her passion for exploring the historical significance of trees, and how these majestic beings can guide us toward healing and wellness rooted in nature.

As plant lovers and plant parents, we often seek ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with our green companions. This episode emphasizes the need for holistic plant care, mindful gardening, and the joy of nurturing plants as a form of home-based wellness. Beronda’s insights on the intersection of botany, personal history, and cultural heritage will inspire you to reflect on your own experiences with plants and how they contribute to your mental health and joyful living.

Join us as we unpack these vital themes and learn how to better care for our plants, whether it’s dealing with pesky plant pests, understanding humidity for plants, or mastering watering tips to keep our green friends thriving. Let’s dig into the stories that our plants hold and recognize the rich narratives they embody.

In this episode, we learn:

• [02:01] Do you want to join my 2026 Growing Joy class experience?
• [02:53] Meet my plant friend Beronda Montgomery!
• [05:23] Why Beronda’s work extends beyond botany into history and activism
• [09:23] Why When Trees Testify matters and what sparked its creation
• [11:29] What is land trauma?
• [14:27] What happened during their visit to the McLeod Plantation?
• [15:25] The Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening
• [16:51] Espoma Organic
• [22:03] What is plant communication/tree communication?
• [23:02] What are “witness trees” and their part in the collective history?
• [25:06] How an enslaved botanist shaped the pecan industry
• [28:23] How reclaiming wisdom can help heal land trauma
• [32:29] Why is the Willow Tree chapter the most personal to write for Beronda?
• [33:46] Uncovering the Elaine, Arkansas massacre through plants
• [35:57] How trees help identify forgotten sacred spaces
• [36:17] Why trees matter globally as historical indicators
• [37:17] What does "Sankofa" mean?
• [39:03] Why Apple trees have such a great impact on history
• [42:58] Life at Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute and what’s next for Beronda
• [45:27] Where to find Beronda’s work, events, and future talks

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Book: When Trees Testify by Beronda Montgomery
• Book: Lessons from Plants by Beronda Montgomery
• Book: An Apple for Harriet Tubman by Glennette Tilley Turner & Susan Keeter
• Book: All That She Carried by Tuya Miles
• Book: How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith
• Book: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
• Article: Red Summer 1919: Tree memorializing black Americans killed in Elaine, Arkansas, cut down

To learn more about how Beronda explores Black American history through botany,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Beronda:

Website
Instagram
Books
Bsky

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Quarto: Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by The American Horticultural Society

Grab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardeningat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.

Espoma Organic

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

African violets often get a bad reputation as fussy, old-fashioned houseplants, but what if they’ve just been misunderstood? In this African violet care guide, we’re bringing back a favorite episode from the Best of Growing Joy series to change the way you think about caring for African violets.

Lisa from Houseplant Guru joins us to bust common African violet myths and explain why these so-called “grandma plants” are actually some of the most rewarding indoor flowering plants you can grow. African violets bloom indoors with far less effort than many houseplants, including hoyas.

We cover everything you need to know about African violet care, from light and watering to repotting and reblooming, so you’ll feel confident growing African violets again even if you’ve struggled with them before.

In this episode, we learn:

• Where did African violets originate?
• How do African violets grow outdoors?
• What is a gesneriad?
• How to care for African violets (watering, light, soil)
• Best watering practices for African Violets
• When to repot African violets
• How to Fertilize African violets
• Bloom Cycles: How to have your African violet stay in bloom

Mentioned in our conversation:

• African Violet Society
• The Violet Barn
• Lyndon Lyon Greenhouses

What African violet myth are you ready to let go of after this episode?

Check out the full show notes and blog for the complete African violet care guide!

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Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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Are you ready to transform your relationship with nature and unlock the secrets to true wellness? Join me in the first episode of Season 11 of "Growing Joy with Plants," where I take you on a reflective journey through the past year of my life as a plant care educator, podcaster, and fellow plant lover. This episode is packed with insights on how nature therapy can elevate your mental health, helping you reconnect with the natural world while nurturing your beloved plants.

As I share my heartfelt gratitude for each of you amazing listeners, I dive into the exciting transitions I experienced in 2025. From doubling the number of podcast episodes to launching my very own digital course, this year has been a whirlwind of growth and learning. But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing; I’ve faced challenges that tested my resilience, and through it all, I’ve discovered the profound connection between caring for our plants and our personal well-being.

Looking ahead to 2026, I’m thrilled to announce a fresh focus on self-care and the healing power of nature. We’ll explore how nature therapy can enhance your home-based wellness journey, moving beyond just plant care to encompass a holistic approach to joyful living. I’m also excited to share that I’m pursuing certification as a forest therapy guide! This endeavor will allow us to delve into the significance of forest therapy and its incredible benefits for mental health.

Join me in upcoming classes designed to help you reflect on the past year and realign your intentions for the new one. Together, we’ll cultivate joy through nature and deepen our connection with the world around us. So grab your favorite houseplant, find a cozy spot, and let’s embark on this journey of growth and healing!

Join us in the Growing Joy in 2026 2 class experience! https://growingjoywithmaria.com/2026

In this episode, we learn:

• [00:00] A big intention shift for 2026 and a new chapter for Growing Joy!
• [02:30] A trip down memory lane for 2025! (doubling content, launching courses, etc.)
• [03:25] What went into making the Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass
• [06:57] How I may relaunch the  Growing Joy Garden Society
• [07:37] Personal transitions, health challenges, and putting down roots in Florida
• [08:43] Why I feel like I’m outgrowing the constant “how to water plants” content
• [09:20] Why I want to focus on “self care through plant care” content in 2026
• [10:20] How to water ourselves via caring for houseplants
• [11:01] Why connecting with nature matters more than how you do it
• [12:41] What’s staying the same and what’s expanding in the podcast
• [13:20] Why plants have been my anchor through hard years
• [16:34] Becoming a sound bath practitioner and using it to create healing experiences
• [17:08] The big announcement: training as a forest therapy guide!
• [17:41] What is forest therapy? (aka forest bathing)
• [19:12] How forest therapy awakens the senses and calms the nervous system
• [21:14] Remembering we are part of nature (not visitors to it)
• [22:11] Creating a podcast mini-series about forest therapy with the help of ANFT
• [23:33] Why deeper connection with nature supports planetary health
• [25:00] Introducing “Growing Joy in 2026,” a Lunar New Year class series!
• [26:08] Reflecting, releasing, and composting lessons from 2025

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Growing Joy in 2026 Class Series
• Forest Therapy Guide Certification | Forest Bathing Training
• What's Your Plant Parent Personality?
• Understanding Natural Light
• The Foolproof Plant Picking Formula
• Houseplant SOS
• Repot with Confidence

Interested in learning more about forest therapy?

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

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Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

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I’ve been on an eight-year campaign to bring more attention and love to the plant we’re doing a deep dive on today, as you’ll find out. Because this plant, the snake plant (otherwise known as the san), is often touted as a low-light plant. But it wants to soak up the sun, plant friends. It deserves so much more than it gets.

So today, we’re revisiting a favorite episode of mine with guest Chris Satch, which is a deep dive on snake plants, finally giving them a full episode to learn more about them: from their African roots to why they wrinkle, flop, or sometimes even bloom. Get ready for a joyful, myth-busting deep dive into the care structure and secret strengths of one of my favorite plants.

Alright, plant friends. If today’s episode convinces you to let your snake plant finally bask in some well-deserved sunshine, just wait until you see how much happier (and how much chubbier) those leaves become when you put them in the light where they deserve to be.

In this episode, we learn:

• [00:39] Why Maria LOVES snake plants
• [04:55] Why snake plants are the most giftable plants
• [06:06] Are snake plants Dracaena or Sansevieria?
• [09:32] Where do you find snake plants in nature?
• [10:06] Are snake plants low-light plants?
• [11:08] The structure of a snake plant
• [13:43] How snake plants photosynthesize
• [18:02] How much light do snake plants need? Can you burn them?
• [19:16] How often should you water snake plants?
• [21:22] What your snake plant looks like when it needs watering
• [23:24] How do you get a snake plant to flower?
• [24:13] Do snake plants need fertilizer?
• [26:23] Where to get sustainable hanging planters
• [29:12] The best giftable planty products this season
• [32:14] Chris’ confession about the best potting media for snake plants
• [34:49] Maria’s confession about her first snake plants
• [35:57] How to divide and repot snake plant pups
• [38:00] How tall should a pup be before you separate them?
• [41:23] Why do snake plants droop? How do you strengthen their leaves?
• [43:33] Troubleshooting floppy snake plant leaves
• [46:06] How do you get snake plants to be fuller?
• [47:33] Chris’ favorite snake plant species
• [52:28] Why you should wipe the dust off your snake plant leaves
• [54:05] What life lessons can we learn from snake plants?

Will you finally move your snake plant into brighter light?

Check out the full show notes and blog for the full snake plant care guide!

Follow Chris

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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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

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I’m so excited to bring you today’s child-friendly episode with a dear friend of mine, Joe Dombrowski. You might know him as @mrDtimes3. He’s the classroom teacher who went viral several years ago and was featured on Ellen for doing a joke spelling bee with his kids. But Joe is actually a massive plant parent, and we became friends a couple of years ago because he listened to the podcast.

When I learned that he was a teacher, I thought it would be so fun to do an episode together on child-friendly holistic plant care activities you can do with kids, whether they’re crafts or science-based activities, like teaching science, or just keeping your kids engaged and hands-on in the classroom or at home.

I figured it would be a fun time to re-release this episode as part of the Best of Growing Joy series in December, when you probably have some kiddos home for vacation and are looking for a few things to do with them. Maybe one of these really creative plant projects that Joe talks about will help you out during your time off.

In this episode, we learn:

• Joe and Maria remember their trip to the Amazon Spheres together
• Joe's opinion on kids going back to school
• [12:25] Project 1: Seed Germination in a Bag
• [19:50] Project 2: Sweet Potato Experiment and understanding the scientific process
• Project 3: Pothos Propagation 3 Ways
• Project 4: Fairy Gardens and Terrariums
• Project 5: List of Interactive Plants for Kids
• Joe's list of his personal favorite plants in his collection
• Joe's most recent plant parent win

Which plant project are you excited to try first with the kids?

Check out the full show notes and blog for all the kid-friendly plant activities and tips to get growing together!

Follow Joe

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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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

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Have you ever wondered how a single pothos plant could change your entire life? Join us in this inspiring episode of "Growing Joy with Plants" as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Richard, affectionately known as Lord Fierce, the visionary founder of Plant Daddy NYC. We explore the vibrant tapestry of the plant community, recalling our first encounter at PlantCon in New York City and the influential figures who helped shape their passion for plants!

Richard's journey from a luxury gym employee in Los Angeles to a dedicated plant consultant in the bustling streets of New York City is nothing short of remarkable. He shares how his childhood memories of gardening with his mother ignited a lifelong love for plants, leading him to create an urban jungle in his home. As Richard reveals the transformative power of plants, he discusses the pivotal moment when a humble pothos plant sparked his passion and set him on the path to becoming a plant consultant.

Throughout this episode, Richard dives deep into the nuances of plant care, emphasizing the importance of understanding plants not just through academic knowledge but through hands-on experience. He recounts his evolution from a hobbyist to a sought-after plant consultant, detailing the educational journey that took him through self-study and practical experience at a local plant store. With insights on common challenges like dealing with scale insects, getting rid of gnats, and managing humidity for plants, Richard equips you with the tools to tackle plant pests and diseases effectively.

As he shares his wealth of knowledge on watering tips, repotting plants, and propagation techniques, listeners will gain valuable insights into holistic plant care and mindful gardening practices. Richard's passion for joyful living through plant parenthood shines through as he discusses the creativity and resilience required to thrive in the world of plant styling and maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your journey as a plant parent, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice that can enhance your home-based wellness.

Don't miss out on the chance to learn from Richard's experiences and discover how plants can bring healing in nature to your life. Tune in to this episode for an uplifting exploration of the joys and challenges of being a plant consultant, and let the green journey begin!

In this episode, we learn:

• [03:15] Meet Richard “Lord Fierce,” the NYC plant doctor behind Plant Daddy MD!
• [05:26] Growing up with plants in a Vietnamese immigrant household
• [07:13] How did Richard develop his love for plants?
• [10:18]  What did his plant collection start as, and what has it grown into?
• [12:13] Why he decided to chase “difficult plants”
• [13:35] Reverse-engineering a UC Berkeley syllabus for self-education
• [14:51] Learn how to make plant care foolproof with Espoma Organic’s premium products!
• [17:01] Experience honey with superpowers and save up to 31% plus $25 in free gifts at Manukora!
• [19:02] Why real plant expertise requires dirty hands
• [21:21] When did he start charging for his service?
• [23:03] Building an “ICU” for sick plants behind the scenes
• [24:29] When house calls turned a hobby into paid work
• [26:03] How job loss turned his life around
• [29:16] Learning entrepreneurship from everyday resilience
• [33:04] A day in the life of a NYC plant doctor
• [35:39] How he treats pest infestations for his clients
• [37:49] Corporate installs, repotting, and office plant styling
• [38:43] How he rescued a 14-foot fiddle leaf fig with bonsai techniques
• [40:56] The wildest plant call yet: a “ghost cactus” mystery (exoskeleton of scales)
• [45:08] The unglamorous reality of professional plant care
• [45:32] What’s inside a plant doctor’s kit
• [46:13] The signature Plant Daddy MD look
• [46:31] Where to find Richard, book him, and follow his work

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Growing Joy Episode 250: The Business of Horticulture with Leslie Halleck
• Growing Joy Episode 272: Beneficial Insects For Effortless Houseplant Pest Management with Jamie of DMV Beneficials

Interested in learning how Richard made the career switch to plant doctor?

Check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Richard:

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Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts! 

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 Leung

Join 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: @growingjoywithmaria

Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.