🌱 Plant Parenting 101: The Basics Every Beginner Should Know

Jeramy Butler
Oct 3
3 min read

By Jezza Butler, Founder of urbanBloomed

Welcome to the Plant Parenthood Club 🌿

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve brought home your very first plant — or you’re thinking about it — and you want to make sure it thrives. First of all: welcome! You’re officially part of one of the most rewarding (and surprisingly relaxing) hobbies out there. 🌱✨

Here’s the good news: you don’t need a “green thumb” or years of experience to become a successful plant parent. All you need is a little patience, a bit of knowledge, and the right tools — and that’s exactly what we’re here to help with.

In this post, we’re covering the essentials of plant care so you can skip the guesswork, feel confident, and enjoy watching your plants grow and thrive.

🪴 1. Choose the Right Plant for Your Space

The number one reason most new plant parents struggle? Picking a plant that doesn’t match their space or lifestyle.

Start simple. If your home gets bright, indirect sunlight, go for easy growers like pothos, philodendrons, or snake plants. If you’re dealing with low-light corners, try a ZZ plant or a peace lily. And if you want something super forgiving, succulents and cacti are great low-maintenance options.

💡 Pro tip: Match the plant to your personality too. If you travel a lot or forget watering schedules, choose drought-tolerant plants. If you love a care routine, pick something that needs regular misting and attention.

🌿 2. Learn to Water (the Right Way)

The most common plant care mistake? Overwatering. It’s done with love — but too much water suffocates roots and leads to rot.

Here’s a simple rule: let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before watering most indoor plants. Stick your finger(or clean a chopstick) in the soil — if it comes out dry, it’s time for a drink. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days.

💧 Bonus tip: Always use planters with drainage holes. They prevent water from pooling at the bottom, which is one of the fastest ways to kill a plant. (And yes — every urbanBloomed planter has them 😉)

☀️ 3. Understand Light Levels

“Bright light” doesn’t mean direct sun blasting through your window all day. Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light — think of sunlight filtered through a sheer curtain.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

🌞 Bright light: South- or west-facing windows, a few feet away.
🌤️ Medium light: East-facing windows or near bright rooms.
🌥️ Low light: Shaded corners or areas far from windows.

If your plant isn’t getting enough light, you might notice slow growth, leggy stems, or pale leaves. Too much light? Crispy, sunburned spots.

🌱 4. Don’t Forget the Soil & Pot

Soil isn’t “just dirt” — it’s your plant’s home. Most houseplants love a well-draining potting mix with ingredients like perlite or coco coir. Succulents and cacti prefer sandy, fast-draining soil, while tropical plants enjoy more moisture-retentive blends.

And just like with light and water, your pot matters too. Choose one that’s:

🪵 The right size (about 1–2 inches bigger than the root ball)
🪴 Has drainage holes
🫙 Complements your space and style

(Psst... we might know where you can find some beautiful, handmade ones 😉)

🌿 5. Be Patient — Growth Takes Time

Plants don’t grow overnight — and that’s the beauty of it. Watching a new leaf unfurl or a stem stretch toward the light is one of the most rewarding parts of plant parenthood.

If something doesn’t go perfectly, don’t stress. Every yellow leaf, droopy stem, or growth spurt is a chance to learn. Over time, you’ll start recognizing your plants’ “language” — and they’ll thrive under your care.

🪴 Ready to Grow With Us?

Every plant parent starts somewhere — and now you’ve got the basics covered. Whether you’re decorating a sunny windowsill or transforming your entire home into a jungle, we’re here to grow with you every step of the way.

👉🏾 Follow us on Instagram for more tips, styling ideas, and behind-the-scenes peeks.

👉🏾 Shop our handmade planters — the perfect home for your growing plant family.

🌿 Final Thought:

The joy of plant care isn’t just in the result — it’s in the process. Every new leaf is a little victory. Every thriving plant is a reflection of your care. So get your hands a little dirty, be patient, and watch your indoor garden bloom.