Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Plant Journey
Got to meet the amazing Jana Angel, TV anchor and host of WBTV’s QClife.
When I first started caring for plants, I thought you either had a green thumb or you didn’t. Turns out, plant care is a skill you learn, not a talent you’re born with.
This blog is for anyone who is just starting their plant journey and for those who proudly or nervously call themselves plant killers.
Hi, I’m Veronica, a houseplant coach who helps take the overwhelm and frustration out of plant care for beginners. I recently shared beginner plant care tips on WBTV’s QClife show during a segment on new hobbies for 2026. You can watch the segment recording here.
Through workshops, plant house calls, and virtual consultations, I help people care for their plant babies in an easy, doable, and intuitive way so they can truly enjoy the benefits plants bring. I love being the bridge between plants and people.
If you’d like to stay connected, sign up for my newsletter to be the first to know about plant events in Charlotte, NC, including plant swaps, plant bingo, and plant workshops.
1. I wish I had understood where my plants came from
Understanding where your plant comes from makes plant care much easier. Plants from desert environments need more light and less water, while tropical plants prefer filtered light and more frequent watering. Knowing your plant’s natural habitat helps you care for it with confidence.
2. I didn’t realize lighting mattered more than almost anything else
Lighting is the number one factor in helping your plant babies thrive. Light is how plants feed themselves, which is why proper plant placement matters so much. When lighting is right, everything else becomes easier.
3. I wish I had learned how to read my home’s light sooner
A simple way to understand the light in your home is by using the compass app on your phone.
East and west facing windows are usually ideal for most houseplants
North facing windows provide low light
South facing windows offer harsh, direct light
Want help with plant placement? Check out my blog How to Find the Right Light for Your Plants Made Easy.
4. I used to water on a schedule, and that caused problems
To avoid overwatering or underwatering, use the finger test or a moisture meter to check if your plant actually needs water. Plants do not follow calendars. They respond to their environment.
For more guidance, read my blog How Often Should I Water My Plants.
5. I didn’t realize pots and soil could make or break plant health
Make sure your pots have drainage holes and that you are using the right potting mix for each plant. These two things alone can prevent many common plant care problems.
If you want personalized plant help, you can book a consultation with me and I will guide you based on your space and lifestyle.
I didn’t have a green thumb when I started my plant journey, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you have a few casualties along the way. I’m here to help.