Your Plants Are Going to Die: And That's Okay!

Let's get real for a moment. As much as we adore our leafy green friends, the harsh truth is that some of our plants are going to die. Whether it's overwatering, underwatering, too much sun, too little sun, or just sheer bad luck, plant casualties are part of the gardening journey. But guess what? That's totally okay! Nobody is perfect, and every gardener, no matter how experienced, has had their share of plant fatalities. So, let's dive into why it's perfectly fine to lose a few plants along the way and how these "failures" are actually stepping stones to becoming a better gardener.

Embracing Imperfection

The Learning Curve

When you start container gardening, there's a steep learning curve. Each plant has its own unique set of needs, and it takes time to understand them. Maybe you gave your succulents too much love (and water) or underestimated the blazing afternoon sun. These experiences teach you valuable lessons that you'll carry forward. I know that I love very hard, and not all of my plants appreciate this! Every plant you lose is a chance to learn something new.

The Myth of the Green Thumb

The idea that some people are born with a "green thumb" is just that - a myth. Successful gardening is about patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. Even seasoned gardeners, with years of experience, still face challenges and occasional plant deaths. It's all part of the process.

Common Reasons Plants Die and How to Learn from Them

Overwatering

One of the most common mistakes is overwatering. Many beginner gardeners, in their eagerness to care for their plants, drown them with too much water. If you're plant's leaves are turning yellow or mushy, overwatering might be the culprit. Lesson learned: check your plant's specific water needs and let the soil dry out between waterings. Also make sure that you have adequate drainage in your container.

Underwatering

On the flip side, underwatering is another frequent issue. If your plant's leaves are dry and crispy, it's a sign they're not getting enough water. Finding the right balance takes practice. Try setting a reminder to check your plants regularly, especially during hot weather. Make sure you're doing a daily garden walk, try to set eyes on your plants at least once every day. Also double check the type of container you're using, for example if you're on a really windy balcony and everything is in a terracotta pot, this could be contributing to them drying out faster. Maybe try some glazed clay, plastic, or metal containers instead!

I have a blog post here all about choosing the right container for your plants.

Incorrect Light

Plants can be divas about their lighting needs. Some thrive in bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer the shade. If you notice your plant stretching towards the light, or its leaves getting scorched, it might be in the wrong spot. Experiment with different locations until you find the perfect match.

Pests and Diseases

Despite your best efforts, pests and diseases can sometimes take over. Aphids, spider mites, and fungal infections are common enemies. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of trouble and address issues promptly. It's all about being vigilant and proactive.

The Silver Lining

Keep a Journal

Keep a gardening journal! When you plant something new record the date, what type of soil you used, what kind of container you planted it in and then record what fertilizer you used and how often you fed it! If it dies you then have a record to look back on to try and find out what you can change next time!

Building Resilience

Every time you lose a plant, you build resilience. You learn to accept that failure is a part of the journey and that it doesn't define your abilities as a gardener. Each loss makes you more determined to succeed and better equipped to handle future challenges.

Sharing Experiences

Talking about your plant failures can be incredibly therapeutic. Sharing your experiences with fellow gardeners fosters a sense of community and support. You'll quickly realize that everyone has been there, and nobody is judging you!

Celebrating Success

When you finally get it right and your plants thrive, the joy and the satisfaction are unmatched. Those moments of success are sweeter because of the failures you endured. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small, and remember that every thriving plant is a testament to your growth as a gardener.

Embrace the Journey and Keep Growing

So if you've lost a plant or two (or ten), don't beat yourself up. Embrace the journey, learn from your mistakes, and keep experimenting. Gardening is as much about the process as it is about the results. Remember, nobody is perfect, and that's okay! Your plants might die, but your love for gardening will continue to grow!

Happy Gardening, and don't forget - every great gardener started with a few dead plants.