Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library Plant Swap Station

I Was Once a Plant Mom

My whole life, I was a serial killer of plants—either over-watering or under-watering them to death. But I’ve always loved having them in the house.

About five years ago, I decided to get serious about taking care of my plant friends, and it made all the difference. Now, I even have a dedicated room with a timed grow light where my outdoor plants can snuggle up and stay cozy all winter long.

Now I'm a Plant Nana

Then my husband got in the mix. He drinks a lot of water, and instead of pouring the little bit left in his cup at the end of the day down the drain, he started pouring it into my plants. Pretty soon, they started sprouting babies left and right.

That’s when I decided to try my hand at propagation, and I have to say, some plants are definitely easier to work with than others. My absolute favorites are pothos and spider plants. They’re so simple—you just snip them and stick them in water or moist soil, and they’ll grow roots. How amazing is that?

I’ve also propagated snake plants, Swiss cheese plants, roses, and succulents. Each type has its own method, so if you’re thinking about trying propagation, definitely do a little research first. I usually watch a video on YouTube before getting started.

It’s Incredibly Cold in Indiana & Kentucky, But It’s Time to Start Your Seedlings

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There's Just Some Plants I Want to Swap

I have to admit, there are a couple of plants I just don’t like. My mom gave me a fox tail fern once, and all it did was shed those tiny little needles everywhere—so frustrating! I didn't mourn when it withered away this year.

And even though my Swiss cheese plant absolutely adores me and thrives in this one perfect spot in the house, I’m not a fan of him either. He just looks too scraggly. Plus, Swiss cheese plants are toxic to animals. Thankfully, my pets leave my houseplants alone, but the fact that it’s a potential risk is always looming in the back of my mind, you know?

When I prune my plants, I usually post on Facebook, letting people know they can come by and grab a cutting if they need one. It’s surprising how many people jump at the chance!

EVPL via Facebook

Plant Adoption Center at EVPL

Recently, I discovered that plant parents can take a started plants to the Evansville Library and swap it for a different variety. It’s such a great way to share the plant love and try out something new without spending a dime!

Here's what they posted to Facebook.

Calling all plant lovers!
Kick off the new year with a touch of green! Join our at EVPL Red Bank and EVPL Stringtown.
EVPL Red Bank: Swap anything from small cuttings to mature plants!
EVPL Stringtown: Meet Patrick, the propagating spider plant—grab a piece to grow your own!

Southern Indiana Photographer Captures Hoosier Birds

Southern Indiana Photographer, Ron Harper, captures photographs of native birds that are both stunning and almost magical. His photographs showcase the natural beauty of the birds in our neck of the woods. From action shots in midflight to beautiful portraits, these photos will give you a new appreciation for the feathered wildlife in Indiana.

Gallery Credit: Melissa Nelson

Source: Sick of Your Spider Plant? Trade It in at an Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library Plant Swap Station

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