Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sea of information about indoor plants, wondering which tips to trust? You're not alone! Join me on this enlightening episode of "Growing Joy with Plants," where I chat with Tanner, the creative mind behind Tanner the Planter. Tanner's journey into the world of plants began in his childhood in Oregon, and he’s here to share his passion for plant care and how he navigates the challenges of caring for indoor plants in the age of social media.

As Tanner recounts his transition from Oregon to Texas, he reveals how his early love for plants blossomed into a mission to provide realistic plant care advice online. We discuss the conflicting information that often leaves plant parents feeling lost and frustrated. This episode is packed with valuable insights on understanding the basic needs of your plants, such as light and water, to prevent common issues like scale insects and plant pests. Tanner emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations in plant care, helping you avoid the disappointment of plants dying or struggling due to mismanagement.

Throughout our conversation, we touch on the impact of social media on the perception of plant care, exploring how idealized images can create unrealistic standards for plant enthusiasts. Tanner's upcoming book aims to demystify plant care, offering practical guidance for joyful living with your indoor plants, encouraging you to embrace the process without the pressure of perfection. We also delve into essential topics like humidity for plants, watering tips, repotting plants, and propagation tips that will elevate your plant parenthood journey.

Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your gardening adventure, this episode is an invitation to cultivate wellness rooted in nature. Tune in to learn how to nurture your indoor plants with confidence and joy!

In this episode, we learn:

[02:54] Meet Tanner the Planter
[04:05] How Tanner’s relationship with plants evolved
[06:51] Where did Tanner get his information while learning?
[08:03] AI, Google, and other confusing sources
[09:31] Why “just put ice on it” is a perfect example of bad internet plant care!
[11:56] How Tanner and Erica built a viral plant brand
[16:46] Manukora
[18:33] Espoma Organic
[22:32] How Tanner approached writing his plant care book!
[24:15] Why you should focus on mastering the basics in plant care
[30:34] How to give yourself more grace when plants die
[32:15] My Hoya heart wedding favors!
[34:12] Why florist planters with no drainage are set up to fail
[35:47] Did millennials change the emotional relationship we have with plants?
[37:27] Why modern plant culture got way too complicated after COVID
[39:41] Why “intuition” is overrated when you’re learning plant care
[40:54] How understanding light makes the rest of plant care easier
[42:03] Skipped generations, lost skills, and why killing plants isn’t your fault
[44:22] How older generations were naturally more connected to plants than we are now
[45:42] What Tanner means by “social media is killing your plants”
[47:45] The cycle of overcorrecting, overspending, and stressing plants to death
[52:21] How much joy even one plant can bring to you
[54:50] Where to find Tanner, Erica, their shop, and his new book!

Mentioned in our conversation:

Pre-order Tanner’s new book: For the Love of Houseplants: Caring for & Keeping Plants with Confidence
Growing Joy 327: Growing a Plant Business, A Marriage and A Community of Plant Parents with @mrstannertheplant
Google Scholar
Maria's Espoma Storefront

For Tanner's correct and well-researched plant care advice,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Tanner the Planter:

Website
Facebook
TikTok
Instagram
YouTube

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Manukora

Go 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!

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

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Growing Joy with Maria by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

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