As many of you will know, I LOVE gardening! I find it both relaxing and therapeutic and write about its value all the time. However, in winter it’s a bit tricky to ‘get out there’ as it’s cold, damp and the ground is doing it’s thing and replenishing everything under the surface. With in mind and coupled with the fact that my son has got heavily into plants, I have rekindled a passion of mine…..house plants! succulents-2347550_1920

I used to grow many in a former house however, on moving I gave a number away and just never got around to replenishing my original stock. This, new found passion, has given me so much pleasure and I’m now in a place where I really have to curb my spending on them. Not to mention the outer pots which can cost up to a fortune.

Apparently, during lockdown plant sales increased and people invested greatly in this seemingly, new passion. I have to say, there are worse things you could spend money on.

So, what is so great about growing plants? Well, if you are anything like me………..you’ll be rescuing ones that have been neglected and are reduced in garden centres and supermarkets. I love doing this, if I see a plant that looks as though it’s on it’s last legs, I can’t help myself, I have to buy it! I also ask for discount though and almost every time I get it.

Caring and nurturing this plant back to life gives me such a buzz, of course, sometimes you do have to accept that you may lose a few. Although, I have to say I have lost very few.

The benefits in my opinion are as follows:

• You get a bargain plant

• You get to share ‘the love’ on this plant

• It may need re potting (getting your hands in compost is a great way to destress)

• As it grows and develops, you’ll feel a real sense of achievement

• It also helps the air quality in the room in which it’s in

• Friends and visitors will almost certainly notice it

I can hear you say, I haven’t the time or the spare money. Well, it doesn’t have to be expensive as you can buy reduced plants (as above) or a high street supermarket can sometimes be a great source for plants sales. In fact, one even offers a range for a £1 a pot! This is great as you really do see this tiny plant grow before your very eyes……….it will need potting in no time!

The outer pots don’t need to be expensive; I have picked up some amazing bargains in charity shops or car boot sales. Failing that, baskets and all sorts of containers (including candle holders) will double up as a zany outer pot. I have used tea and coffee containers before now.

So, why not give it a go? I promise you’ll be hooked in no time!