Plant: a living thing that grows on earth, in water, or on other plants, usually has a stem, leave, roots, flowers or produces seeds
Etiquette: the customary code of polite behavior in society
Hi All! Let's talk about plant etiquette. Plant etiquette is extremely important when diving into a new hobby.
Things to do:
1. Ask questions. I love answering questions because it's such a thrill to speak about something when your truly passionate about it.Don't be afraid! If your nervous about a plant or not sure what's happening it's great to learn from others experiences and build your own skills. 2. Use plant groups/Instagram/social medias to ask for cutting swaps. They are out there. You can find a community of indoor houseplant growers who will be willing to trade cuttings. Usually it's very cheap and a great way to start your collection honestly.
3. Google wisely. Their are some really great articles out there but make sure to check your sources. You want to remember that the advice you are given isn't tailored to your specific region. Just like any sort of living plant/flower your whereabouts is going to effect the advice given to your plants. Make sure you are getting advice tailored to your specific situation!
4. Experiment! Plants are all about science and how different methods/products affect the living being. Botany is a biological science! Experiment and enjoy seeing what happens. No one start's off perfect and if you happen to kill a plant. We all have! So keep experimenting and learning!
Things not to do:
1. Don't rely on social media sights such as pinterest. It's so often that I log in and see aesthetically pleasing drawings on pinterest and Instagram with plant advice. Eg: Cute (air purifying plants for the bedroom) with little cats and dogs around them-even though if eaten the specific plant will be toxic to the pets. The drawings are cute and the artist is amazing. But the advice, from what I've witnessed isn't always correct. Instead source your plant advice from respected sites. 2. Tell a botanist that 'google said'. Google wisely. Their are some really great articles out there but make sure to check your sources. You want to remember that the advice you are given isn't tailored to your specific region/situation/experience. Just like any sort of living plant/flower your whereabouts and efforts are going to effect the advice given to your plants. Make sure you are getting advice tailored to your specific situation!
3. Ask for cuttings off nurseries. It's very awkward to say no when people ask for cuttings of a established plant for sale. No business gives away free products- don't expect it to be any different. Use the plant groups instead! Excellent cheap/free cuttings can be found here!
4. I say this with a sigh- but please. Do not steal cuttings. From nurseries, botanical gardens or from peoples homes. Stealing is stealing. Let's just leave it at that one! Create an amazing guilt free honest collection and you'll be super proud of yourself!
Let's all enjoy this journey and be free and happy!