Episodit

  • What if the secret to a happy life is to live seasonally? Living seasonally isn’t just about eating fresh produce (but, yes, that’s delicious). It’s about noticing nature’s rhythms, then adjusting depending on the season and celebrating those small shifts that define the passage of time.

    And with the Spring Equinox here, which is a time of renewal and balance, it’s the perfect moment to talk about how we can welcome the season with intention. I’m joined by a dear friend Bailey Van Tassel—a mom, gardener, author of Kitchen Garden Living, and someone who’s really committed to living a more seasonal lifestyle.

    In this episode, we learn:[00:00] What is the secret to living seasonally?[03:15] What is Bailey’s journey into seasonal living?[07:00] How Bailey reconnected with nature[09:08] What really matters in gardening[12:26] The science behind gardening[13:50] How does biophilia explain our connection to plants?[15:00] Find a moment of calm and soothe your spirit with Wind River Chimes![16:41] Nourish your plants and your soul this spring with Espoma Organic’s all-natural products![18:43] Why permaculture is useful in living seasonally[20:09] How did Bailey’s garden evolve?[25:55] Personal growth through gardening[27:50] How gardening helps with anxiety and depression[28:52] What does it mean to truly live seasonally?[31:06] Winter vs spring in terms of energy and rhythm[33:48] What practices can you do to honor the Spring Equinox?[36:59] Why is it important to involve children in gardening?[42:19] Where can you find Bailey and her book ‘Kitchen Garden Living’ on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Brie the Plant LadyKitchen Garden Living by Bailey Van TasselFor Bailey's simple yet special recommendations on how to live seasonally,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Bailey:

    Website

    Podcast

    Instagram

    YouTube

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    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



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  • Grief is so heavy that it can feel like an impossible weight to carry. But if you think about it, you can use plant care as a method to process grief and loss. Like plants, people can also grow and find resilience. They don’t rush and don’t demand. They just grow… little by little, day by day.

    In this episode, I want to share the story of my dear plant friend, Wade Lee, also known as Plants by Wade Lee. His story is so much more than houseplant care. It’s about loss, grief, healing, and finding joy again, one leaf, one root, one seed at a time.

    In this episode, we learn:[00:00] How plants can help you heal from grief[04:22] Wade’s story with grief and plants[10:10] Finding solace in plants[15:14] Find tranquility in every breeze this 2025 with Wind River Chimes![16:55] Learn how to grow more food with less space and effort with the 4th edition of ‘Square Foot Gardening’![18:08] Honoring Steven and new beginnings![22:32] How we connect with the spiritual realm[25:39] How Wade secured a gardener position[29:38] How to use plants as a therapeutic tool for grief[33:43] Finding grace in dead plants[36:28] At what point did Wade begin using social media?[39:53] What are some methods for using plants to heal from grief?[42:44] What is nature in different forms?[45:49] Where can you find Wade on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Leonardi's NurseryThe Cummer MuseumSoutheast Plant ShowWade Lee’s Hair PortfolioFor Wade's recommendations on how to use plants as a therapeutic tool,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Wade:

    Website

    Podcast

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    Facebook

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    Twitter

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Quarto: All New! Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition

    Get your copy of All New! Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition today at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

    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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  • Puuttuva jakso?

    Paina tästä ja päivitä feedi.

  • Have you ever found yourself overthinking over a yellow leaf and wondering, “Is this overwatering or underwatering? Does it need water? Is this normal?” You’re just like the rest of us, plant friend! It's something I've done many, many times, and I know it's something that people in our community do all the time. We all want to get it right, but overthinking plant care can suck the joy right out of it. But in 2025, we need as much joy and as little stress as possible. So here are 5 signs you might be overthinking your plant care and how to fix it!

    In this episode, we learn:[02:57] Common overthinking traps in plant care[03:54] Five tips to stop overthinking plant care[04:33] Sign #1: You Google every little thing[09:34] Sign #2: You’re watering on a rigid schedule (and believing plant care cards)[12:55] Alternative to a finger test[14:10] Sign #3: You panic over every yellow leaf[15:37] Grow healthier plants, indoors and out, with Espoma Organic’s premium products![18:06] Sign #4: You throw the ‘kitchen sink approach’ at small issues[19:40] Sign #5: You think you need to be a 'perfect' plant parent[23:34] How to relax & enjoy your plants moreMentioned in our conversation:  Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass - use code OVERTHINK to get it for $ 49Moisture MeterGrowing Joy Episode 276: Houseplant Confidence: The Mindset Shift That Changes EverythingWant to lessen your stress over plant care?

    Check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor:Espoma Organic

    Lessen you're overthinking, make sure you're using nontoxic products on your houseplants! Espoma Organic is dedicated to making safe indoor and outdoor gardening products for people, pets, and the planet. They have an amazing variety of high-quality, organic potting mixes, garden soil, fertilizers, and pest control products that are organic and eco-friendly. To top it all off, they have a huge sustainability commitment with a 100% solar-powered plant, zero waste manufacturing, and eco-friendly packaging.

    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



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  • “Start ‘em young.” That’s my motto. Well, it’s not really mine but I say it all the time when it comes to houseplants. And for this episode, I’m sure plant parents are gonna be happy to learn how to connect the younger generations to plants and nature at a young age.

    So I want to share this conversation with my plant friend Priscille Joseph, who is a Canadian author, illustrator, and plant lover. She wrote My First ABC Book of Houseplants and she’s all about helping kids connect with nature.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:07] How did Priscrille become a plant lady?[06:04] How ‘My First ABC Book of Houseplants’ was created[10:46] Launching workshops with sustainable brands[13:12] What are the ways to engage kids with houseplants?15:22] Nurture your plant babies safely from toxic chemicals with Espoma Organic’s premium gardening products![16:57] Let kids enjoy a sensory experience[17:27] Connect plants with stories[21:39] Involve kids in hands-on activities[22:34] Make it interactive[24:18] Get creative with plants[26:52] Bonus tip: give kids responsibility[28:46] Where can you get Priscille’s book?Mentioned in our conversation:Download Priscille’s books:My First ABC Book of Houseplants: Exclusive EditionMy First Abc Book Of House Plants | IndigoMy First ABC Book of Houseplants | AmazonFree Greenhouse Scavenger Hunt PrintableJournal of Education in Science, Environment and Health (JESEH)The Bug Girl: A True Story by Sophia SpencerWant to engage your kids more with easy plant tasks?

    Check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Priscille:

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    Events

    Freebies

    Instagram

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    Thank you to our episode sponsor: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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • Have you ever once thought about how flowers could do more than brighten your day? What if they could actually support your emotional well-being, reduce your stress, and even spark creativity? After 270+ episodes, this is my first time ordering a guest product right after the interview. Yes, I am on the flower essence bandwagon HARD after this interview.

    But who wouldn't be after talking with Katie Hess, founder and flower alchemist of Lotuswei, a company dedicated to harnessing the essence of flowers to help us live more joyful lives? She’s an amazing educator and I learned so much in this conversation.

    In this episode, we learn:[04:41] How Katie started getting into the energetics of flowers[06:10] The ripple effect of 3%[08:12] What is a flower essence?[09:46] Why are bees attracted to flowers?[10:18] The concept of botanical wi-fi/flower wi-fi[14:01] Our disconnection from nature[15:48] Wind River Chimes[17:30] Plants with Superpowers[18:31] What is the human-flower connection?[21:45] Validating flower essence information[23:48] How do you study flower essence?[27:31] How is a flower’s energetic code captured and distilled?[30:32] The dilution process and its similarity with homeopathy[33:02] Essential oil vs flower essence[37:32] Most popular remedies and flowers that match[41:25] How can you experiment with and experience flower essences?[43:36] Take the flower essence test![45:27] Synergistic flower essence blends[50:30] Flower essence that fits my lack of self-belief[51:29] Where can you order your flower essence?Mentioned in our conversation:Fierce Compassion CollectionQuiet Mind CollectionGain Insights with Our Flower Reading QuizDivine TruthDivine WithinWant to find out which flower essence you can get started with?

    Check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Lotuswei:

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    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Quarto: Plants with Superpowers by David Domoney

    Pick up Plants with Superpowers at your local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • Lately, I’ve been hearing so many people talk about Mel Robbins’ Let Them Theory—this idea of letting go of control, shifting your mindset, and ultimately finding peace. And you know what? I realized that I went through a similar shift when it came to my plant care journey, and I want to share it with you in this episode. I'll talk about how we think about our plants, our plant care, and how that shift in mind can bring so much joy, not just to our plant parenthood but also to our lives.

    In this episode, we learn:[00:00] Concept of 'Let Them Theory'[01:27] My most popular episode![02:54] I just launched my Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass![04:29] What’s the root cause of your doubt?[07:35] Overwhelm and misinformation[08:58] How to reframe your “plant killer” identity mindset[09:50] How does social media affect your plant care mindset?[12:28] How to celebrate plant care[15:30] Add moments of serenity throughout your day with Wind River Wind Chimes![18:12] Pick a positive thought about [19:01] Treat every plant misstep as a learning experience[20:18] Take on a growth mindset[22:21] Evolving plant parent personalities[25:00] How to be a confident plant parent[27:09] Develop a relationship with your plants[31:43] Celebrate plant wins!Mentioned in our conversation: Growing Joy with Plants MasterclassGrowing Joy Episode 43: Your Brain on PlantsGrowing Joy Episode 200: Common Houseplant Pest Identification and How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats, Spidermites, Scale, White Flies and MealybugsWhat's Your Plant Parent Personality?Understanding Natural LightTropical Plant International Expo (TPIE)For mindset shifts and practices to help build your houseplant confidence,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor:Wind River Chimes

    Bring the gift of peace, serenity, and magic with chimes! Wind River is a Virginia-based company creating premium handcrafted and hand-tuned wind chimes for over 35 years. If you are looking for an amazing gift that can help you or your loved ones grow joy and find a moment of peace, a Wind River chime is the perfect option. Plus, you can engrave the wind sail on the wind chime with meaningful dates, names, or phrases!

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • How can we conserve water while maintaining healthy, attractive gardens, no matter what climate you're in? Record-breaking heat waves, devastating droughts, wildfires scorching millions of acres, floods turning streets into rivers—we've seen it all this year. As climate extremes test our resilience, our gardens are feeling the impact too. How do we ensure our gardens not only survive but also grow in these unpredictable conditions? Let’s talk about water-saving techniques and strategies to keep your garden lush and sustainable with Noelle Johnson, aka the “Arizona plant lady.” She’s a horticulturist, landscape consultant, and the author of the new book, ‘The Water-Smart Garden.’

    In this episode, we learn:[02:53] How Noelle became a plant expert[04:36] Why water conservation is important[07:27] What does water conservation look like?[08:27] Identifying drought conditions[09:56] Water-saving tips for renters[10:49] What are the plants great for different plant zones?[13:43] Drought-tolerant plants[15:28] Espoma Organics’ premium gardening products[16:58] AHS Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening[18:52] Why you should go to a local nursery[20:34] Making soil more efficient at water retention[23:32] How mulch and ground cover help with water retention[26:36] What are ollas for water saving?[30:46] What are different ways of saving rainwater? (rain barrel, swale, creek beds, etc)[36:32] What is xeriscaping?[40:33] How can you reduce the water your lawn needs?[44:14] Smart irrigation controllers[45:30] Beginner tips for water conservation[47:20] Advanced water conservation strategies[49:14] ’The Water Smart Garden’Mentioned in our conversation:Gardening Books by Noelle JohnsonDrought.govGrowing Joy 253: 5 Tips for Growing in Hot ClimatesTruDrop self-watering planters - Crescent GardenFor Noelle's complete list of water-saving tips,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Noelle:

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    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Quarto: American Horticultural Society Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening

    Grab a copy of Essential Guide to Perennial Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Quarto.com, or Amazon.com.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • Did you know you can use your plant passion as inspiration for how and where you go on vacation? I'm sure many of us have already done this on a small scale. Maybe you've been on a trip and kept taking pictures of plants that look just like the ones you have at home. Or perhaps you've insisted on visiting a local plant shop or botanical garden while on vacation (guilty as charged!). But plant friends, that can be just the beginning of how you travel and botanize for your plant passion.

    And we're going to dive into everything you need to know about it today with my horticulturist bestie Leslie Halleck, who has been on the show many times, and Marcia Castro Rosenberg, listener-turned-plant-shop owner and also a dear friend of mine.

    Leslie and Marcia have actually teamed up to create a once-in-a-lifetime trip called Botany & Betterment in The Amazon! It's a seven-day riverboat and jungle adventure on the Rio Negro River in Brazil this August 2025.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:40] Get to know Marcia[07:51] Leslie’s botanizing trips[11:32] What is botanizing?[15:17] Support sustainable gardening with Espoma Organic’s premium gardening products![16:52] Bring nature back to your garden with Kelly Norris's Your Natural Garden[18:55] What are their most memorable botanizing experiences?[25:37] What are the botanizing basics?[30:14] Where can you find plant keys & field guides[34:57] On creating the ultimate Amazon trip: ‘Botany & Betterment’[39:23] Hiring local guides for your trip[43:50] Building community and personal growth[49:45] Where can you find more info about Leslie and MarciaMentioned in our conversation:AllTrailsBotany & Betterment in The Amazon!Tiny Plants, by Leslie HalleckRooting For You StoreTo know more about Leslie and Marcia's botanizing adventures,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Leslie:

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    Follow Marcia:

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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.

    Quarto: Your Natural Garden by Kelly D. Norris

    Grab a copy of Your Natural Garden by Kelly Norris at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • If you’re a plant lover, you’ve probably come across Chantel, the brilliant mind behind @channygrayhome on Instagram. Over the past few years, she has built a community of over half a million plant enthusiasts. But there’s so much more to her than her incredible follower count.

    In this episode, I’ll take you behind the scenes of my chat with Channy—where we talked about her plant history, her love for DIYs, her big move from the Arizona desert to lush Iowa, and how she juggles being a plant mom and a mom to three kids.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:15] How Channy and I met at a Botanical Garden[07:28] What has Channy’s plant journey been like?[15:14] Add serenity to your life in 2025 and beat the winter blues with Wind River Chimes![16:56] Start your kitchen garden today by grabbing a copy of Kitchen Garden Living by Bailey Van Tassel[19:10] What does pest prevention mean for Channy?[21:12] Channy’s new plant soap for pest control![23:57] What does a bubble bath for plants look like?[25:07] How to balance motherhood and plant care[28:17] Top tips to make plant care easy and fun![30:06] Decorating with plant cuttings[32:03] Lechuza pon vs LECA[33:54] How did Channy get into DIY projects?[35:30] Moving to Iowa and preparing for changes[38:02] What does Channy’s family think of her plant collection?[40:38] What it feels like to have 500k+ followers[43:00] What are her future plans for Channy Gray Home?[44:30] Where can you find Channy on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy Ep 240: How to Move with Houseplants with Becca De La PlantsGrowing Joy Ep 226: How to Repot HouseplantsGrowing Joy Ep 109: Passive Hydroponics 2.0 and the LECA VS PON DebatePlant Soap by Channy Gray HomeLECHUZA-PON Plant SubstrateLECALearn more about Channy's top houseplant care tips,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Channy Gray Home:

    Website

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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.

    Quarto: The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson

    Grab a copy of Kitchen Garden Living at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, Quarto.com, or Amazon.com to get inspired and grow organically.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • When I visited the Seattle Spheres and saw the famous green wall with its 40,000 plants, I was mesmerized. But what really caught my eye were these strange little plastic baggies hanging off some stems. I wondered if they were hurting the plants at first. But then I looked closer, I realized those bags were filled with insects. Beneficial insects, to be exact. And they were there to manage pests naturally.

    So if you’re like me and have struggled with pests like spider mites, thrips, or mealybugs on your plants, this episode with Jamie Stanton from DMV Beneficials should show you how beneficial insects work in deterring pests naturally.

    GET THE FREE HOUSEPLANT PEST CONTROL DOWNLOAD HERE

    In this episode, we learn:[02:34] Download my new houseplant pest guide for free![03:37] Meet Jamie from DMV Beneficials[06:59] What is a “beneficial insect” and what makes it beneficial?[09:59] Why not just use pesticides?[12:01] How do these beneficial predators work with your houseplants?[13:42] What are the risks of releasing beneficial insects in your home?[14:38] Can beneficial insects sting us?[15:19] Never worry about water restriction ever again by picking up a copy of "The Water Smart Garden" by Noelle Johnson[16:32] Discover high-quality organic gardening products with Espoma Organic[18:22] Stay away from these beneficial insects![20:42] How to get started[28:10] Can we see the mites we release?[29:35] Beneficial insect against scales[29:46] Effective thrips management[33:44] Can you use beneficials in tandem with pesticides?[34:51] Top houseplant pests that give the most headaches[41:31] How does sustainability play into beneficials?[48:19] Where to find DMV Beneficials near youMentioned in our conversation:Monterey Horticultural OilWhat's Your Plant Parent Personality?

    GET THE FREE HOUSEPLANT PEST CONTROL DOWNLOAD HERE

    Learn how to use beneficial insects to protect your houseplants,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Jamie

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    Follow DMV Beneficials

    Website

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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.

    Quarto: The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson

    Grab a copy of The Water-Smart Garden by Noelle Johnson at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com, or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • I can't believe we're already in 2025, but I am SO excited to spill all the tea about my wild plant experiment from last year. In 2024, I totally went for it and added over 40 new plant species to my collection—and it was quite the adventure! Some of these plants thrived, some flopped, and yes, some didn’t make it. So in this episode, I’m sharing it all—from my favorites to my fails—and what I learned along the way.

    In this episode, we learn:[01:51] Reflecting on 2024[04:31] What’s your plant parent personality?[06:38] Why I now consider myself a low maintenance plant parent[09:08] How I fell in love with Ficus (and fell out of love with Calathea)[11:52] My success with Anthuriums and Alocasia[13:37] Why my most repurchased plants are philodendrons (+ pothos)[15:19] Start 2025 with soothing premium chimes with Wind River![17:00] Grow your best garden yet with the AHS Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening![19:39] Why there is less light in your house than you believe[20:50] My top favorite plants in 2024[33:44] My least favorite plants in 2024[37:56] Plants that didn’t make it in 2024 :([42:53] What's in store for my 2025 houseplant collection?Mentioned in our conversation:What's Your Plant Parent Personality?Growing Joy Ep 147: How to Care For Carnivorous Plants Indoors with Damon of California CarnivoresGrowing Joy Ep 269: Carnivorous Plants: The Houseplant Pest Control You Never Thought Of with Kenny CooganGrowing Joy Ep 247: Growing Joy "After Dark": Spilling the Planty Tea with Kamili Bell Hill and Agatha IsabelHow Carnivorous Plants Can Be Used for Pest Control // Indoor Carnivorous PlantsFull Soltech Highland Light and Wallygrow Eco Wall Planter Greenwall Set Up and ReviewÅKERBÄR greenhouse, in/outdoor/white, 45 cm - IKEA
    For a complete list of my 2024 plant collection ranked,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Quarto: American Horticultural Society Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening

    Grab a copy of the Essential Guide to Organic Vegetable Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to start growing organically.

    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

    Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

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  • What role do you think nature plays in your life? For me, it has always been a deeper way to improve my mental, physical, and emotional health. In fact, it’s not just me who thinks this way. The minute I hopped into the digital recording studio, I knew that my guest was someone very similar to me! I’ve been following Marcus Bridgewater, better known as Garden Marcus, for years, and I’m so happy to say that he surpassed my dreams of what this conversation on plants and wellness could have been.

    In this episode, we learn:[02:12] Who is Marcus from Garden Marcus?[04:49] Something we have in common![09:03] How did Garden Marcus get started?[12:50] How did Marcus first start gardening?[17:01] Our crazy plant parent stories[18:56] Community and isolation[20:37] Why we need more green spaces[27:41] How to be a more “grounding” person[30:08] How disconnected is the world from nature?[33:08] Exploring plant life parallels[36:37] How to understand “feelings”[39:35] How to awaken to nature’s presence[43:27] How Marcus’s book came to be[46:11] Mind, body, and spirit[47:32] What it means to be “community loyal”[48:23] Garden Marcus vs. Marcus Bridgewater[51:04] Check out Seasons of Growth: The New Journal[53:30] Where to follow/find Garden MarcusMentioned in this conversation:How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself by Marcus BridgewaterSeasons of Growth: A Journal for Well-Being Inspired by Marcus BridgewaterChoice ForwardRedwood National and State Parks (U.S. National Park Service)For more plant-life parallels,

    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

    Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria

    Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria

    Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com

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  • Plant friends, did you know your houseplants can double as pest control? Carnivorous plants don’t just survive—they hunt. Venus flytraps can snap down on unsuspecting flies, while pitcher plants lure bugs into their slippery traps. These carnivorous plants themselves are nature’s own pest management system.

    So I’ve brought on a guest who knows everything there is to know about them: Kenny Coogan, the head of education at the International Carnivorous Plant Society.

    Kenny has been growing carnivorous plants for about 20 years, and about five years ago, he joined the ICPS as the education director. He quit his day job and turned his passion into his profession, running a carnivorous plant nursery in Florida. As he puts it, "Carnivorous plants are my life."

    In this episode, we learn:[01:47] What’s not to love about carnivorous plants?[04:52] Who is Kenny?[08:01] Some facts about Venus flytraps[09:57] What is a carnivorous plant?[12:54] Where do we find carnivorous plants outdoors?[15:36] Don’t let your houseplants wither this winter with Soltech Growlights![16:57] Nourish your houseplants with Espoma Organic’s gentle and premium fertilizers![18:57] What triggers carnivorous plants’ dormancy?[19:57] What carnivorous plants do to their prey[24:17] Specific care for temperate carnivorous plants[27:31] Specific care for tropical carnivorous plants[32:43] Can you feed carnivorous plants hamburger? (how to hand-feed them)[36:41] Trigger mechanism of Venus flytraps[38:48] How much light do Venus flytraps love?[42:58] What are the best houseplant-friendly carnivorous plants?[48:26] Watering and potting tips for carnivorous plants[50:30] Common mistakes and troubleshootingMentioned in our conversation:International Carnivorous Plant SocietyICPS Classroom GrantsVerdant LyfeVenus Fly Traps & More Carnivorous PlantsFlorida's Carnivorous Plants: Understanding, Identifying, and Cultivating the State's Native Species by Kenny CooganLittle Shop of Horrors (1986) - IMDbCarnivorous Plants Animated Series by ICPSCarnivorex 3D printer model programs | ICPSFor carnivorous plants' care basics and feeding tips,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech Solutions

    Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • As the winter solstice–or the longest night of the year–approaches, how does it reflect and represent you? This is the season of dormancy, a time when plants, the earth, and even we are drawn to rest, recharge, and prepare for growth. In this final installment of our 2024 seasonal sessions, on the pod once again is my dear friend and our resident green witch, Rachael of Our Infinite Nature. She shared with me how the winter solstice can help us honor cycles of rest and renewal. It was a lovely way to end a year of seasonal explorations, covering everything from the practical ways we can live in harmony with the season to what the quiet time of winter can teach us.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:55] What is the cyclical nature of life?[05:38] How to rebrand winter inside ourselves[10:38] How does the earth respond to winter?[13:48] How to prepare your winter garden[15:25] Give your plants the sunlight, even on the coldest days, with Soltech Grow Lights![16:47] Find peace in the chaos with personalized Wind River Chimes![19:26] Why focus on your inner growth[23:06] Astrological guide to winter solstice (Capricorn season)[29:39] Shop exclusive garden gifts and essentials at Gardener's Supply Company![30:45] How to honor the winter solstice[37:08] What is the role of our nervous system?[39:19] Rest and digest[42:02] Winter solstice visualization/meditation[55:53] Where can you follow Rachael?Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy Episode 229: Why You Should Care About the Spring EquinoxGrowing Joy Episode 242: Why You Should Care About the Summer SolsticeGrowing Joy Episode 256: What You Need to Know About the Autumnal EquinoxGet Rachael’s book, Self-Care for Eco-AnxietyJoin the 2025 Intuitive Magic Group CoachingFor Rachael's insightful recommendations on navigating the new season,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Rachael:

    Website

    Instagram

    TikTok

    Facebook

    YouTube

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech Solutions

    Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

    Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Gardener's Supply

    Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • According to a Human Spaces report, “workers in office environments with natural elements, such as greenery and sunlight, are 6% more productive at work and 15% more creative.” Personally, they’ve been my number one most useful tool for increasing joy throughout my workday, and they help me reduce eye strain from staring at my computer all day. So in this episode of Growing Joy with leafjoyÂŽ miniseries, we’ll be talking about biophilia, common problems of office plant care, and some practical tips to make your workplace more “green.”

    In this episode, we learn:[04:03] Why plants are helpful in office spaces[04:16] What is biophilia?[05:37] What is biophilic design?[06:51] How does biophilic design affect productivity?[08:58] What’s our relationship with sounds?[10:11] Impact of natural materials (eg. wooden contact paper)[11:19] What’s the right type of plant for your office?[12:50] Lowest entry: Proven Winners leafjoy® H2O Line[14:46] How to arrange plants in your office (to reduce eye strain)[17:06] Vertical plant solutions[18:57] What are some office plant care tips?[20:18] What to do when your office doesn’t allow plantsMentioned in this conversation:Human Spaces: The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplaceleafjoy H2O® Collection | Proven WinnersGrowing Joy Episode 261: The Best Low Light Plants for Dim SpacesMy $10 Biophilic ArtFor my complete suggestions on how to add nature to your office,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor:Proven Winners

    If you want to have success with houseplants, you’ve got to have two things: the knowledge to care for them successfully and healthy plants. Meet my new favorite houseplant grower: Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. With only the best plant genetics grown in a state-of-the-art, European greenhouse, you will not be disappointed in the variety and quality of your favorite plants from Proven Winner’s leafjoy™. This company has taken the guesswork out of plant shopping with plant tags that include scientific names and care guides, as well as carefree houseplants in cute containers that you only have to refill once the water level is low!

    Find plant joy in leafjoyÂŽ. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoyÂŽ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

    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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  • How do you have a life and a garden? Between busy schedules, family time, and pretty lengthy to-do lists, how can we fit gardening moments into our lives without sacrificing precious time? As we close out our 2024 gardening season, it’s a great time to reflect on what worked, what flopped, and how we can make our gardens even better for 2025. This is exactly where CaliKim shines the most, and her new book, The 10-Minute Gardener, helps us become more efficient gardeners who can, as she says, “have a garden and a life.”

    In this episode, we learn:[03:48] What is Kim’s gardening background?[06:30] What does her garden & garden zone look like?[09:16] Why raised bed gardening is the best option in Florida[13:04] Why efficiency is important in gardening[14:33] Gift yourself or a loved one the gift of peace and joy with a personalized Wind River Wind Chime![16:03] Bring simplicity into your garden with Kelly Norris's new book, Your Natural Garden.[17:34] 3-minute gardening tasks[27:21] 5-minute gardening tasks[30:51] Simplify your gardening experience with Espoma Organic’s high-quality products![38:03] How to plan your garden for dormant season[40:15] How to break down your garden tasks[43:13] 8-minute & 10-minute gardening tasks[49:06] 30-minute gardening tasks[51:00] Where can you find Kim on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Pre-order 10 Minute Gardener by CaliKimThe First Time Gardener: Raised Bed Gardening by CaliKimCaliKim's Smart Pots Fabric PlantersCaliKim's Seed CollectionsCaliKim's Garden KitsCrescent Gardens TrueDrop plantersOrganic Gardening for Everyone: Homegrown Vegetables Made Easy by CaliKimCaliKim Backyard at nightFor CaliKim's time-saving gardening tasks,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Quarto: Your Natural Garden by Kelly D. Norris

    Grab a copy of Your Natural Garden by Kelly Norris at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com to get inspired and take action on your garden.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • What if there’s a way to enjoy your favorite outdoor plants year-round, save money, and keep them inside as houseplants during the winter? The answer lies in overwintering outdoor plants indoors, which is a brilliant technique I talked about with my friend and gardening expert, Janey Santos from Dig, Plant, Water, Repeat. Janey is a master gardener, YouTuber, and just an all-around plant genius, and she shared five incredible plants that can grow successfully indoors over winter and head right back outside next summer.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:27] Gardening in different climates[06:13] Plant swap announcement![08:25] Why atrium is an ideal plant[10:31] Why coleus is the easiest plant to propagate[11:35] What are geraniums?[15:07] Why you should invest in grow lights[16:12] How to get personalized Wind River Chimes[17:42] Gardening solutions for your indoor and outdoor plants[21:05] Geranium vs. pelargonium[21:57] How versatile are begonias?[25:25] Caladiums—the up-and-coming plant[31:50] Why Alyssum is a special plant![34:01] Find the perfect holiday gifts for gardeners and plant parents[35:06] Hypoestes (the Polka Dot plant)[38:15] Is gardening a budget hobby or not?[40:04] Watch our plant swap next week![40:34] Where can you follow Janey on social media?Mentioned in our conversation:Growing Joy 253: 5 Tips for Growing in Hot Climates with Janey of Dig Plant Water RepeatThe Florida Gardener PodcastSoltech Aspect™ LED GrowlightBegonia FeroxHeart to Heart® 'Snow Flurry' - Shade CaladiumHeart to Heart® 'Hot 2 Trot' - Sun and Shade CaladiumHippo® Rose - Polka Dot PlantHippo® White - Polka Dot PlantProven Winners🌱 Surprising My Pregnant Sister with a Dream Raised Bed Garden! | Emotional Baby Shower Gift Reveal!For Janey's recommended houseguest plants and their proper winter care,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Janey:

    Website

    Podcast

    YouTube

    Instagram

    Facebook

    TikTok

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    Espoma Organic

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

    Gardener's Supply

    Discover your garden favorites and exclusive innovations at gardeners.com and use code GROWINGJOY for free shipping.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • How do you vacation-proof your plants before going away? The holiday season is fast approaching, which means many of us have already booked out-of-town trips that would require us to be away from home for a longer period of time. So how would you keep the plants back home alive while on vacation? It's not like we could water our plants while away, right? So in this episode, I want to make sure that stress never happens to you. I'm going to set you up with all that you'll need to know so you know your plants are content while you enjoy your holiday.

    In this episode, we learn:[02:01] Join my Patreon for amazing goodies[02:38] How to holiday proof your plants[03:34] What’s your magic number? (the number of days you’re gonna be gone)[05:57] Plant care tips for short trips (7 to 10 days)[10:30] Why self-watering planters would be perfect for you[11:30] Some DIY water-wicking system[12:11] Try watering globes/stakes[13:11] Plant care tips for longer trips (over 10 days)[15:25] Give your plants the light they deserve this winter with Soltech![16:59] Gift peace and joy this season with personalized Wind River Chimes![19:32] How to prep your plant sitterMentioned in our conversation:What's Your Plant Parent Personality?TruDrop self-watering planters - Crescent GardenWatering GlobesFor all of my proven and tested vacation plant care tips,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech Solutions

    Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

    Wind River Chimes

    Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • Why are plants the perfect holiday gift? Plants symbolize so many things such as growth, life, and connection, so it only makes sense that we want our giftee to feel this. And unlike typical presents, if you pick just the right plant for whoever you’re gifting it to, trust that this will continue to grow and evolve long after the holiday season is gone—making them think of you every time they look at it. But if you’re not careful (and well-informed), that gift could turn into a time bomb of wilting leaves and shattered dreams. And before you know it, your giftee is calling themselves a plant killer. So this episode is all about a holiday houseplant gift guide that avoids the classic plant gifting pitfalls.

    In this episode, we learn:[03:45] Why do plants make the best gift?[04:52] What’s the biggest issue about gifting plants?[06:37] Why choose low-light plants as gifts?[07:21] How can you make plant gifting fun?[07:35] #1 Personalized terrariums[10:28] #2 Kokedama[12:33] Perfect plants to gift to your loved ones![12:44] Perfect plant gift for mindful plant parents[13:38] Perfect plant gift for curious collector plant parents[14:36] Perfect plant gift for design-based plant parents[15:16] Perfect plant gift for urban farmer plant parents[16:09] Perfect plant gift for low-maintenance plant parentsMentioned in our conversation:Proven Winners leafjoy™ H20 CollectionWhat's Your Plant Parent Personality? - Growing Joy with MariaGrowing Joy Ep 261: The Best Low Light Plants for Dim SpacesYoutube video: HOW TO MAKE A TERRARIUM - Step-by-Step DIY Terrarium Tutorial!Proven Winners FittoniaYoutube video: How to Make a Kokedama // Perfect Plant Gift for All Occasions!Living Lace® Hurricane - Bird's Nest FernLiving Lace® Victoria - Bird's Nest FernLiving Lace® Twirly Whirly™ - Boston FernPrismacolor™ Splash Dash™ - Red-leaf PhilodendronPrismacolor™ White Wizard - Philodendron hybridPrismacolor™ Pink Princess - Philodendron hybridArching Amour™ Follow Your Heart™For my complete houseplant gift guide,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Thank you to our episode sponsor:Proven Winners

    Find plant joy in leafjoy™. Head to provenwinners.com to find your local leafjoy™ dealer and let me know which plant you take home on socials!

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
  • Christmas and the holiday season are coming! Which “festive” plants should you grow and how can you help them stay alive? For many people, nothing makes the holidays lovelier than getting a beautiful poinsettia or holiday cactus during this time. But there’s absolutely nothing worse than seeing the holiday plant that you fell in love with just wither before your very eyes because they need a different care than you’re used to. So today we’ll talk about how to care for classic holiday plants with horticultural expert Farid Khalil from Mahoney's Garden Center.

    In this episode, we learn:[04:32] Who is Farid Khalil from Mahoney’s Garden Center?[08:04] What do the holidays look like at Mahoney's?[10:20] What is a poinsettia and how do you care for it?[14:48] Give your plants the light they deserve this winter with Soltech Grow Lights![16:12] Pre-order Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition now and get new plans, tips, and updates![19:21] How to care for poinsettias successfully?[25:52] Are poinsettias toxic to pets and children?[27:24] What are some poinsettia alternatives?[30:04] Repot your holiday plants with Espoma Organic’s premium quality products![31:20] Why Cyclamen is a nice holiday plant[32:51] How Cyclamen become associated with Christmas[34:39] How should you care for Cyclamen?[38:35] Christmas cactus vs easter cactus[40:20] How to care for a Christmas cactus[44:19] How to care for a Norfolk Island Pine[49:30] Why Lemon cypress is a good holiday plant[51:46] Get to know about Mahoney's Garden Center!Mentioned in our conversation:Mahoney's Garden CenterThe history of the Morel company, creator of cyclamenSchoneveld BreedingFor Farid's garden center-tested holiday plant care tips,

    check out the full show notes and blog here!

    Follow Mahoney’s Garden Center:

    Website

    Instagram

    Facebook

    Pinterest

    X

    Thank you to our episode sponsors:Soltech Solutions

    Check them out at soltechsolutions.com and get 15% off with code "bloom15".

    Quarto: Square Foot Gardening, 4th Edition

    Grab the 4th edition of Square Foot Gardening at your favorite local bookstore, bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, quarto.com or amazon.com.

    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



    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands