Botany 101: An Introduction to Botanical Science

February 13, 2020 by micah catherine 2 Comments

botany moss ferns conifers flowers on white background

I don’t suppose anything particularly exciting comes to mind when you think of the word “botany.” Perhaps it only conjures up images of 9th grade biology class and those tiny wads of wet paper some depraved 14-year-old shot at you from across the classroom. At first, that’s what I—the self-proclaimed crazy plant lady—pictured, too. And then I took a botanical science class at Weedon Island Preserve, and it changed everything.

Botany is, in the most basic terms, the study of plants. Of the nearly 400,000 identified species of plants, all you really need to know is this: all plants are made up of the same parts, just put together differently. All are tiny factories, living multi-cellular organisms that absorb or make their own food through photosynthesis, protect themselves, and ensure their species continues through very unique reproductive methods. And they’re the basis of the food chain, the very foundation off of which virtually all other species thrive. In short, plants are fascinating.

There are four major classifications in the Plant Kingdom: mosses, ferns, conifers, and flowering plants. All plants are classified based on their physical characteristics and how they reproduce. Simple! Let’s look at more distinctions for each type:

Moss
Mosses are non-vascular plants (Bryophyta) that reproduce through spores. They thrive in habitats where moisture is plentiful, as they have no roots, leaves, or stems to transport nutrients and water. Mosses do an excellent job of reducing erosion near bodies of water.

Fern
Ferns are tropical-loving, seedless vascular plants (Pteridophyta) that reproduce through spores. These are the brown spots you see on the underside of their fronds. Characteristic of ferns, each begins in a fiddle-head shape and uncoils as they mature.

Conifer
Conifers are vascular plants (Gymnosperm) that use male and female cones to reproduce. Conifers can range from pines to giant sequoia trees and even certain types of palms. They’ve adapted to grow in temperate and tropical climates, retaining their color all year round.

Flower
Flowers are vascular plants (Angiosperm) that reproduce through seeds, sometimes housed within fruit. They are the most diverse group of plants, the largest families being daisies, orchids, and legumes. Most flowers rely in bees for pollination so they can grow seeds and reproduce.

Just the Beginning
The class I attended was two hours of fascinating information that left me with a new-found appreciation for plants, especially the ones I call my own. Where will this new curiosity take me? Perhaps the three-part series on plant identification? I think yes.

Have you ever gone back to the basics with a botany class? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

XO,
Micah

Snake Plants: The Chill Plants that Aren’t Clingy

February 6, 2020 by micah catherine 3 Comments

snake plants against white background wall

You might be wondering why snake plants (also commonly referred to as “mother-in-law’s tongue” or “Saint George’s sword”) would be good plants for your home. After all, every nickname they’ve ever gotten hasn’t exactly been … complimentary.

Thankfully, what remains positive is the excellent reviews plant parents give about this chill, low-maintenance houseplant. Snake plants have striking colors and twirling, spiked leaves, which is where many of their nicknames derive from. Their unique design also often makes them the plant of choice for modern, trendy homes. And due to their hardiness, snake plants have a great reputation around those who find it difficult to keep anything alive. If you tend to neglect your houseplants or travel often, this plant is for you! Here’s why:

Sun and Water
Snake plants don’t need much water to survive and can thrive in various levels of light. Just be sure it’s potted in a planter with a drainage hole and saucer. Over-watering and root rot are the most common problems in these plants. Let the soil completely dry out between each watering or about every 2-6 weeks. Like many plants, they’ll be happiest in bright, indirect light, though they won’t suffer too much with minimal sunlight. If the leaves start to droop and look dull, it’s time to give it some sun!

Pro Tip: When watering your snake plant, be careful not to get the leaves wet. They won’t mind an occasional misting though.

Temperature
Not surprisingly, snake plants aren’t too picky about the temperature. (They won’t tolerate frost or snow, but what does?) Snake plants are native to tropical climates of West Africa, so they will thrive in places (such as bathrooms) where humidity is the highest. They’ll adapt to almost any temperature above 40 degrees, however, even in low-light conditions. If you travel often and keep your home at a cooler temperature, your snake plant will still be happy.

colorful leaves of snake plants against white wall

new leaves of snake plants in potting soil

Air Purification
All plants help purify the air, but snake plants are especially good at it. In general, plants do an excellent job of ridding the air of organic pollutants, including formaldehyde, benzene, and nitrogen oxides. Snake plants specifically, like pothos plants, are pros at removing these toxins, making the air you breathe in your home cleaner and healthier. Even if you forget about your plant for a few weeks, it’ll still be clearing your indoor air of pollutants. Not a bad trade-off!

Pro Tip: Snake plants have low toxicity to people but are dangerous for cats and dogs. Keep out of reach of your pets!

Propagation
If one snake plant in your home isn’t enough, there are three simple ways to propagate it! You can cut off a leaf at the base, then cut the leaf into 2” sections and place them bottoms-down in succulent and cactus soil. Or you can cut the leaf at its base and place either the leaf cuttings or the entire leaf in water, then repot in soil when roots form. Or you can divide your plant by taking single leaves (with good root systems) and repotting them individually in their own pots. If you’d prefer a visual reference for propagating snake plants, YouTube is a great resource!

No Green Thumb?
If you’ve been unsuccessful in keeping plants alive in the past, snake plants are a good option for you. The only thing you’ll need to worry about is over-watering, and if you’re naturally neglectful of plants, this shouldn’t be a problem. Have you owned a snake plant or think you might now? I’d love to know!

XO,
Micah

The Savvy Guide to Seasonal Plant Care: Winter

January 23, 2020 by micah catherine 2 Comments

winter plant care of pink geranium on gray window sill

Not surprisingly, the seasons play a big role in the health and happiness of your plants. Even southern states can experience fairly cold temperatures in the winter, so the proper plant care for this sunless season is crucial for their survival. If you live where the temperature dips below freezing for most of the winter, read on.

Increase Sun Exposure
Naturally, plants need sunlight to truly thrive. This is especially important during cold months when this light is scarce. The sun sets early during the winter, so keep your plants congregated in areas of your home that are exposed to afternoon light. Even if the day is overcast, natural light is better than no light at all. If your plants are leaning toward the light, keep rotating them every few days.

Pro Tip: Plants like the golden pothos do well in conditions with little-to-no sunlight, so they won’t be too fussy during the winter months.

Consider Artificial Light
Winter plant care may look a lot like winter self care. Without adequate sun plants can start to droop and wither, too. If you haven’t seen the sun in weeks, you may want to invest in artificial grow lights for your greenery. You can also use floor or desk lamps with LED bulbs. Keep these lights on and near your plants, so they can reap the benefits without becoming burned.

Check for Drafts
You may think that placing all your plants next to a window to soak in the sun is a good idea. In most cases, it is. But for wintertime, keeping your plants away from drafty windows will help them thrive even when it’s cold outside. The more stable the climate, the better your plants will grow, so the plant care rule of thumb for drafts is if you feel one, your plant will, too.

Handle with Care
The long winter months put most plants into a dormant state. They won’t need as much water to stay healthy, even with increased sun exposure. Make sure your plant’s soil is dry an inch down before watering again. The air in your home will be less pure, too, since no windows are open. To help your plant get as much sunlight as possible, mist or wipe down the leaves to prevent dust build-up.

Winter can feel never-ending, but a good way to spend the cold evenings indoors is to give your plants a little extra TLC. Plants have been proven to boost your mood, so what better cure for the winter blues than a little nurturing of your favorite flora? How are you helping your plants thrive this winter?

XO,
Micah