I joke that I have a “black thumb”— you know, the opposite of a green one.
Everyone in my immediate family seems to be able to grow so many beautiful plants and I joke that my house is the grim reaper of anything with stems, leaves or flowers.
My mom and sisters can grow anything — and have beautiful gardens and outdoor landscapes to show for their talents and efforts! Every plant I brought home seemed destined for a quick goodbye.
Wilted leaves, droopy stems, and my own mounting guilt. Sound familiar?
But here’s the truth I learned: gardening isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present.
As we get ready for the blooms that follow all those April showers, this month’s Sweet Simplicity is dedicated to a subject that has served as my own kryptonite — gardening!
Gardening isn’t just about growing food or flowers.
It’s about reconnecting: With the earth, with yourself, with the seasons. It teaches patience, presence, and the joy of small victories — like spotting your first sprout or picking a sun-warmed strawberry.
It also cuts down on waste, promotes mindful eating, saves money, and brings beauty to your home in the most natural way. And honestly? Pulling weeds can be surprisingly therapeutic.
• Start Small and Keep it Simple: Remember what I said about starting small, right?
One plant. One windowsill. No pressure. If you are looking for form and function instead of beauty, start with some herbs. Basil, mint, and thyme are easy, smell amazing, and are useful in everyday meals.
You will build up your confidence and that black thumb will slowly fade to green.
No yard? No problem! Container gardening is a great option — pots on a balcony or windowsill work wonders or consider one of the counter-top gardens to keep those plants around even in the cold months!
• Use what you have: I know it is fun to go out and buy new things — oh, boy, do I know that feeling — but repurpose old containers, mason jars, or wooden boxes for planters.
No need for terra cotta pots or Instagram-perfect planters (unless that sparks joy).
Reuse old mugs, jars, or baskets. Plants don’t care—they just want drainage, sunlight and water!
• Meet the Low-Maintenance Plant Squad: (Like your low-drama besties, but leafy.) Not all plants are created equal and let’s face it, some plants are just more persnickety than others.
Here are a few recommendations for plants that can sustain even the blackest thumb!
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Loves being ignored. Seriously.
• Pothos: Trails beautifully, grows fast, and bounces back from neglect.
• Aloe Vera: Healing and hard to kill.
• Herbs like mint or parsley: Low-maintenance and useful in the kitchen — and can hide the smell of dogs and teens. Ask me how I know this!
• ZZ Plant – Almost unkillable, even if your lighting is sketchy.
• Let there be light (and water and soil drainage): I’m not gonna lie, this is where I fall short of success.
I either drown my plants, forget to water them or bake them in the hot afternoon sun.
Here is the lesson that was told to me. Plants thrive on the trinity — water, light and drainage.
• Water: Not too much. Not too little.
Most plants like their soil to dry out a little before the next watering.
Use the finger test (poke the soil) or lift the pot—if it feels super light, it’s probably thirsty.
• Light: This is major. Light is food for plants.
Some plants thrive in bright, direct sun (like herbs or succulents), while others prefer indirect or low light (like snake plants or pothos).
Watch your plant: if it’s stretching toward the window, it’s begging for more sun.
• Airflow: Drainage
Airflow keeps mold, pests, and rot away—so don’t crowd your plants. Let them breathe.
Drainage = essential. No sitting in soggy soil! Always use pots with drainage holes. If not, add a layer of pebbles at the bottom and water verrry gently.
If you are feeling inspired but want a little more inspiration, I am happy to share the expertise of some true plant queens — here are a few content creators who I am in absolute awe of!
Follow their pages if you are so inclined and prepare to be inspired!
• Rooted in the Garden (Nicole Burke – Gardenary). IG: @gardenaryco; Website: gardenary.com.
Nicole makes gardening super approachable. Think raised beds, herbs, and elegant garden setups—even for small spaces.
• Shawna Coronado: IG: @shawnacoronado; Website: shawnacoronado.com. She’s into wellness gardening, sustainability, and living green without stress. Her tips are practical and down-to-earth.
Some plants will thrive. Some won’t. That’s life. If one doesn’t make it, compost it, replace it, and move on.
No shame in the plant game. You don’t have to be a plant expert to enjoy the slow magic of gardening: Start small. Water when you remember.
Watch something grow. You’re still a plant queen or king! Happy growing, friends!
(Editor’s Note: Kristine George is a freelance journalist who resides in Easton.)