As expected, I’ve taken a few detours from my “traditional academic studies” to follow my other interests. I envisioned myself hiking and birdwatching, identifying native plants and birds. As a result of COVID-19 restrictions, I’ve found myself inside making art and tending to indoor plants. I started collecting plants somewhat obsessively last year and have acquired quite the collection. I’ve learned that most houseplants are actually tropical plants. This is so funny to me in retrospect. We find these plants in the tropical jungles of Mexico or sub-tropic regions of Africa and then we try to grow them in our homes! The point is, in order for a plant to thrive we have to consider where it originated. 

For example, in nature, Calatheas grow in densely vegetated tropical rain forests of South America, shaded by a canopy of trees. This means in the home Calatheas need consistent moisture, humidity and low light. Mine sit in front of a North facing window where they never receive direct sunlight. I group plants together, creating bubbles of humidity and mimicking their natural habitat. I keep the soil lightly moist and never let them dry out completely. Using the appropriate soil is critical. Something with peat moss will hold a bit of moisture but not too much.

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Now consider the String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii), a semi-succulent that was reportedly first found growing on a rock. This funky plant has orgins in South Africa, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. After learning where this plant comes from, we can assume it needs heat, direct light, minimal watering and well-draining soil.

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It is intriguing to consider how many of these plants have adapted to survive in homes that are very different from their natural habitat. They often don’t grow as large, but they can survive with adequate care. In nature, many of the Calathea leaves would grow to be the size of my head or larger. While my plants are still young, I know they will never get that large. The plants seem to adapt a bit, as long as the humans caring for them are willing to accommodate somewhat too. It is a two-way street.

I almost don’t want to make the connection here, between children and plants. Part of me says, “This is enough, it is okay if my learning doesn’t all correlate!”  The other part of me just can’t help but point out that children, similar to plants, can thrive in the right environment. If we consider where they came from, how they grow up and adapt our interventions to meet their specific needs, we can support them in their growth. If we don’t, if we just plop all the kids into the same soil, give them all the same amount of water, some will thrive and others will wither away.

Citations:
[Photo of Ceropegia woodii plant] (date unknown) Retrieved from https://smartgardenguide.com/string-of-hearts-plant-care-ceropegia-woodii/
Butler R.A.(date unknown) Roots of Calathea roseopict [photograph] Retrieved from https://travel.mongabay.com/indonesia/images/singapore5485.html