Growing Joy with Plants - Wellness Rooted in Nature, Houseplants, Gardening and Plant Care

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 DreherPathways to Inner Peace by Diane DreherAwe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life by Dacher KeltnerForest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing LiGrowing Joy Episode 322: From Plant Care to Nature Therapy: A Solo Heart to HeartJoin 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:WebsiteFacebookLinkedInBskyBooksMeditations Thank you to our episode sponsor:Quarto: The Continuous Vegetable Garden by Charlie NardozziGrab 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 CourseGrowing Joy Episode 06: Living, Potted Christmas Trees with Joe Lamp’lGrowing Joy Episode 72: Fall Garden Plants and Projects with Joe Lamp’lGrowing Joy Episode 20: Talking Tomatoes with Craig LeHoullier and My MOMCultivating 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 JoeWebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookPinterestXPodcast 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 WaterThe Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor by Gerald PollackEWG Tap Water DatabaseSafe 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:WebsiteInstagramTikTokFacebookLinkedIn Thank you to our episode sponsors:Espoma OrganicVisit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.Quarto: The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture by Brandy HallGrab The Complete Guide to Home Permacultureat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.ManukoraGo 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 CutsumpasBAGR Episode How to Manage a Large Plant CollectionNetflix’s The Big Flower FightPela CaseLucy Biggers of NowThisMedley FurnitureAvocado Green MattressRecover BrandsWallyGroPrecious PlasticFolia CollectiveEspomaGreenery UnlimitednoissueCrop 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 NickWebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookLinkedInBook 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @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 MontgomeryBook: Lessons from Plants by Beronda MontgomeryBook: An Apple for Harriet Tubman by Glennette Tilley Turner & Susan KeeterBook: All That She Carried by Tuya MilesBook: How the Word Is Passed by Clint SmithBook: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall KimmererArticle: 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:WebsiteInstagramBooksBsky Thank you to our episode sponsors:Quarto: Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by The American Horticultural SocietyGrab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardeningat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.Espoma OrganicVisit 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 LeungJoin 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: @growingjoywithmariaTiktok: @growingjoywithmariaSubscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmariaWebsite: www.growingjoywithmaria.comPinterest: @growingjoywithmaria Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.