How to become a plant parent
A plant parent is someone who sees their houseplants as part of the home, not just part of the décor.
It's not a decision you make once.
It happens gradually — through a first new leaf, a name, a quiet morning ritual that becomes yours.
There's no certificate. No perfect moment. Becoming a plant parent simply means noticing a living thing in your home as more than decoration.
If you're here, you've probably already started.
Where to begin
1 Start with one plant
One plant is enough.
Choose one you genuinely like. You'll notice it more, learn its habits, and enjoy watching it grow.
2 Keep it where you'll see it
Put your plant somewhere you'll naturally see every day.
The more often you notice it, the more naturally caring for it becomes part of your routine.
3 Give it a name
It sounds like a small thing.
But once your plant has a name, it starts feeling a little more personal.
4 Pay attention
Don't worry too much about perfect watering schedules.
Look at your plant instead. Before long, you'll start noticing when it's thirsty, happy, or asking for a little more light.
5 Talk to it if you feel like it
Some people do. Some don't.
I sometimes say "good morning" or get excited about a new leaf. If you've ever done that too, you're definitely not the only one.
6 Make it part of your day
Plant care doesn't have to feel like another task.
Water it while your coffee is brewing. Check on it on Sunday mornings. Small rituals are easier to keep than big plans.
7 Let it happen
Most people don't wake up one day and decide to become a plant parent.
One day you simply realise you're no longer just taking care of a plant. You're sharing your home with it.
Most people don't wake up one day and decide to become a plant parent. It happens little by little.
Ready to give your plant a name?
It only takes a couple of minutes—and it might be the first step to becoming a plant parent.
A personal note
I never decided to become a plant parent. It just happened.
One day I looked at my Monstera and realised she wasn't just a plant anymore. She had moved with me, grown with me, and quietly stayed through different chapters of my life.
That's what inspired Pet the Plant.
I wanted a simple way to celebrate the relationship so many of us already have with our plants—by giving them a name, a story, and a place in our home.
If you're here, maybe you feel the same way.
— Alexandra
In short
Becoming a plant parent isn't about growing perfect plants.
It's about building a relationship with the ones you already have.