I KILLED MY FIRST HOUSE PLANT

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For the longest time I have always wanted to own a plant and last year presented the right opportunity. I got my first plant last December at a plant store for around 25 euro (which I later discovered was on the high side). I hoped to nurture this beautiful Orchid, so I did all the research I could on it. The plant was doing well when I purchased it. Most of its flowers had sprouted and my only job was to water it bi-weekly, but I ended up overwatering it.

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In my defense, my apartment is pretty dry and dark (because of Winter), so I thought it would benefit my plant (an orchid) to keep it humid as it is a tropical plant. So I sprinkled water on the leaves twice or more daily, and watered it weekly, but the plant did not grow.

Last week, the Orchid's flowers began to wither. I assumed this was part of the plant's cycle, so I didn't worry. Then it progressed to the stem, but still I wasn't alarmed. I came around a YouTube video that said it was alright for these things to happen. Little did I know my plant was dying.

Today, I discovered rot in the center of the plant, which I believe caused its demise. After some research, I learned I needed to prune the rotting roots, stem, and leaves. What remained of my beautiful plant was negligible. I was heartbroken, to say the least.

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After pruning (and mourning my plant), I went to the store to get another plant. This time I got an orchid and a spathiphyllum. They have different profiles and needs, and I hope to see which thrives in my apartment without much hassle.

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I hope to move to a larger apartment this year, which means more plants. I love plants and the natural aesthetic they give my living areas. Plus, there are health benefits to having plants in your space, so it is worth the investment. So I would like to know:

Do you have plants? How to you manage to keep them healthy (especial during winter)?

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