This has me absolutely laughing out loud whilst sipping coffee this morning (next to my fiddle leaf fig)!! Thanks for the fantastic writing, and the humor, and above all, the fun.
Such great writing! Now that I'm in a 5th-floor walkup, my branch life has changed. I put the dying ones on the fire escape until the leaves fall off, sparing the stairwell.
Not to contradict, but could you share some examples when plants do work/ how to make them work? For the clients who love having them and taking care of them
Not a contradiction at all. It’s actually the conversation I was hoping would happen.
And yes, plants can work beautifully. The second and third photos in the post are both potted plants. One has quietly grown to nearly 20 feet tall. The other climbs over the bathtub toward a window like it has a plan. Both have been in place for over two decades, cared for with love and patience, not just filtered light and hope.
As I wrote, “Unless you’re planning to live in that space for a decade…” these are exactly the kinds of living exceptions I mean. They’re not decorative gestures. They’re characters in the room now.
This wasn’t meant as a ban on greenery. It was more of a question. A gentle invitation to notice what we’re actually reaching for when we bring in a plant. If it’s real joy, that’s beautiful. But if it’s just a leafy placeholder for depth, then maybe there’s a better way.
Thanks so much for this. I love getting to talk about the nuance. Let’s keep going.
This is so great. I have always hated the idea of potted plants having grown up with a mother that had them near death in every room and windowsill. Recently I succumbed and what has saved them aesthetically may be their vessels…..thanks
…it feels as if bringing in a plant is knowing you are entering into a relationship. One that will only be reciprocal if you are willing to invest in it. Relationships are messy, hard work, need care and attention from both parties.
Thank You for this piece … I’ve been rolling it around in my heart for a while.
This has me absolutely laughing out loud whilst sipping coffee this morning (next to my fiddle leaf fig)!! Thanks for the fantastic writing, and the humor, and above all, the fun.
Such great writing! Now that I'm in a 5th-floor walkup, my branch life has changed. I put the dying ones on the fire escape until the leaves fall off, sparing the stairwell.
I like to plant trees. But outside where it’s meant to live - then bring the blossoms or tree branches in the house ❤️
I agree that plants don’t do well indoors - they’re not meant to be there.
Not to contradict, but could you share some examples when plants do work/ how to make them work? For the clients who love having them and taking care of them
Not a contradiction at all. It’s actually the conversation I was hoping would happen.
And yes, plants can work beautifully. The second and third photos in the post are both potted plants. One has quietly grown to nearly 20 feet tall. The other climbs over the bathtub toward a window like it has a plan. Both have been in place for over two decades, cared for with love and patience, not just filtered light and hope.
As I wrote, “Unless you’re planning to live in that space for a decade…” these are exactly the kinds of living exceptions I mean. They’re not decorative gestures. They’re characters in the room now.
This wasn’t meant as a ban on greenery. It was more of a question. A gentle invitation to notice what we’re actually reaching for when we bring in a plant. If it’s real joy, that’s beautiful. But if it’s just a leafy placeholder for depth, then maybe there’s a better way.
Thanks so much for this. I love getting to talk about the nuance. Let’s keep going.
THIS is the kind of hot take only you can deliver, Colin. BLESS.
Love it🥀
putting words to how houseplants make me feel >
love this 😍
“trying to soften the mood in a dermatologist’s waiting room”
I almost just spit out the water I wasn’t drinking.
10/10. No notes.
This is everything. Thank you for saying what we’re all thinking! And yes I have a house plant, it’s dying, and I will be getting rid of it)
Insightful!
Love 🤍
This is so great. I have always hated the idea of potted plants having grown up with a mother that had them near death in every room and windowsill. Recently I succumbed and what has saved them aesthetically may be their vessels…..thanks
I don’t know how to send a picture wish I did. Thanks for making my morning
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Thank you for this beautifully articulated and thoughtful piece. 🌱
…it feels as if bringing in a plant is knowing you are entering into a relationship. One that will only be reciprocal if you are willing to invest in it. Relationships are messy, hard work, need care and attention from both parties.
Thank You for this piece … I’ve been rolling it around in my heart for a while.