Hello, my name is Julie, and I’m a houseplant killer.
I mean, I’ve tried, I have, but I just can’t seem to keep those buggers alive. Could have something to do with forgetting to water them for weeks on end, but I’m not sure that’s the whole problem. In fact, sometimes I’ve swung the other way and watered them incessantly. That hasn’t worked either. Then there’s the whole issue of sunlight and making sure they get some. Frankly, it’s all just a little too complicated for me.
Which is why it’s so shocking that this guy is still around.
Actually, he’s not just around, he’s literally multiplying on a weekly basis. This 34-prong buddy started as just two or three little nubs the size of my thumb – and now look at him.
And that’s with only being watered six or seven times a year.
But you know what the best part is?
Turns out this little overachiever is worth his weight in plant soil, because if you’ve got an ouchie of some sort, which I do, you simply ask this guy to spare the tip of one of his fleshy leaves, which you then cut open and rub on the needed area. He provides this lovely coating of gel that soothes the sore, fights off infection, and seals the area like a natural bandaid! Awesome!
Those looking to add little plants of their own to their homes may want to look into using what many consider to be the best potting mix for indoor plants to help keep them going for as long as possible.
Let’s recap:
His name is Aloe Vera.
He thrives with almost total neglect.
He gives and gives and gives. (You know – fresh air, aloe vera gel, the tips of his leaves…)
He covers for me by making it appear that I know how to keep houseplants alive.
He gives up pieces of himself to help heal my wounds.
Hmmm.
Sounds a little codependent to me, but I’ll take it.
xo
by julie rybarczyk
