Growing Joy with Plants - Wellness Rooted in Nature, Houseplants, Gardening and Plant Care

Did you know that the quality of water you use can be just as crucial for your plants as it is for your health? 🌱 Join me on this enlightening episode of Growing Joy with Plants as I chat with Cydian, the brilliant mind behind Pure Water Northwest and a true water quality expert. Together, we explore the often-overlooked yet vital topic of water quality and its profound impact on both our well-being and the health of our beloved plants.
Cydian's journey into the world of water quality began with a personal story that many can relate to - his daughter’s health challenges and his experiences managing properties plagued by poor water quality. This episode is packed with insights that every plant lover and dedicated plant parent should hear! We dive deep into the differences between legal and health standards for drinking water, revealing that just because water is legally deemed safe, it doesn't mean it's healthy for you or your plants.
Throughout our conversation, we unravel the complexities of the hydrologic cycle, discuss various contaminants that can affect water quality, and emphasize the importance of customizing water treatment solutions to fit your unique needs. If you’ve ever struggled with plants dying or battling pesky plant pests, this episode is for you! We also touch on how water quality impacts plant health, particularly focusing on the effects of chlorine, salts, and pH levels that can wreak havoc on sensitive plants.
You'll walk away with practical solutions, such as the benefits of reverse osmosis for improving water quality, as well as tips on understanding local water reports. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant parenthood journey, this episode empowers you to take charge of your water quality for healthier living and joyful gardening.
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of water quality and plant care together!
In this episode, we learn:
[03:19] How did Cydian Kauffman become the water quality expert?
[04:29] EPA’s Legal water limits vs. healthy water
[05:14] Why eczema, dry skin, and brittle hair can start with your tap water
[07:55] What’s the hydrologic cycle?
[08:21] Microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and “forever chemicals” in everyday water
[09:27] What’s the standard practice for tap water treatment across United States?
[10:14] Why almost all municipal water uses chlorine (and what carbon filters really do)
[11:53] Hard vs soft water
[12:30] Why water that is too soft can damage pipes and plants
[13:22] What’s the ideal hardness/softness of water?
[14:23] pH and alkaline
[15:15] Espoma Organic
[16:58] The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture
[20:39] What are the three biggest water issues affecting skin, appliances, and health?
[22:05] Forever chemicals explained
[25:52] What is reverse osmosis and how does it work?
[27:32] Why salts/sodium in tap water can lead to leaf burn and root stress
[30:27] Manukora honey
[31:15] How salts cause leaf burn through osmotic pressure
[35:00] How to find what’s in your city’s water
[37:05] Other ways to fix water quality issues (carbon filters, softeners, reverse osmosis)
[40:36] What does structured water or “water coherence” mean?
[42:46] Where to find Cydian online + how he water consults remotely
[43:43] Real-world water success stories that changed lives
 
Mentioned in our conversation:
Growing Joy Episode 317: Discover Coherent Water with Mario Brainovic of Analemma Water
The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor by Gerald Pollack
EWG Tap Water Database
Safe Drinking Water Act: Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR) | US EPA
 
If you want to check your area's water quality,
check out the full show notes and blog for Cydian's guide!
 
Follow Cydian:
Website
Instagram
TikTok
Facebook
LinkedIn
 
Thank you to our episode sponsors:
Espoma Organic
Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.
Quarto: The Complete Guide to Home Permaculture by Brandy Hall
Grab The Complete Guide to Home Permacultureat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.
Manukora
Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts!
 
Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

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What if low waste plant parenthood began with just one houseplant? In this episode, I’m joined by urban farmer and plant coach Nick Cutsumpas (aka Farmer Nick) to explore how sustainable plant care can become a powerful gateway to mindful gardening and environmental action.
As part of the Best of Growing Joy series, we revisit this meaningful conversation from the archives to look at plant parenthood through a holistic lens, one rooted in intention, awareness, and joyful living. Nick shares how caring for plants, even in a small apartment, can support low waste living and regenerative habits without perfection or pressure.
This episode breaks down holistic plant care in a realistic, approachable way, offering plant parents simple shifts they can make to care for their plants, their well-being, and the planet.
 
In this episode, we learn:
[00:02:26] Introducing Nick Cutsumpas and episode key ideas
[00:07:18] What Nick does, what started his plant journey (mothers DO know best!), and how plants served as his ‘saving grace’ when he moved into the city
[00:10:38] Check out Nick in Netflix’s new show The Big Flower Fight!
[00:11:14] What is regenerative environmental action? Nick explains sustainability vs regenerative
[00:13:22] Are houseplant people practicing regenerative methods with their plants? According to Nick, to see is to believe when it comes to taking care of our environment
[00:15:01] How Maria realized she could be doing more sustainable practices
[00:15:22] Maria’s current idea obsession: plant blindness — Nature Not Furniture!
[00:16:32] What Maria thinks of ‘zero waste’ and her reservations with the movement
[00:17:17] Nick shares why he thinks plant blindness is similar to waste blindness
[00:17:37] Why Nick strives for low waste consumption vs zero waste, how we as consumers can apply low waste consumption to the products we buy
[00:19:45] Why the time to be more conscious is NOW more than ever and how taking care of plants reminds us that we can take action
[00:20:47] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on low waste
[00:21:45] Low Waste Beginner Tip #1: Reuse everything
[00:22:46] Do you have tons of bubble wrap from your online orders? Save them for your next plant cutting gift!
[00:23:50] What is ‘waste’? For Nick, it’s everything that ends up in a landfill
[00:24:38] Maria’s lightbulb moment on her waste consumption: New York’s composting system
[00:25:11] The negative effects of plastics in our environment and how we can be smart and responsible with our plastic consumption
[00:26:54] Why we should be cautious about greenwashing, waste segregation, and biodegradable vs compostable materials
[00:28:24] Nick’s sustainability influences
[00:29:13] Low Waste Tip #2: Buy quality over quantity (Yes, you save more money this way!)
[00:30:12] Nick’s sustainability progress: he hasn’t bought anything new in more than a year! The secret? Thrifting!
[00:31:52] The eco-friendly furniture and mattress stores that Nick recommends
[00:33:56] How the pandemic enabled more waste production
[00:34:48] Why the most impact can be achieved through collective action; ‘10% is better’
[00:35:14] The BEST recycled and sustainable wall planters and the BEST plant kits to give this Holiday season!
[00:38:56] Nick reveals the most common mistakes we all do when it comes to composting
[00:39:54] How to REALLY begin your low waste journey
[00:40:39] Why you need to wash your recyclables
[00:41:22] Low Waste Tip #3: Find bulk stores and bring your own jars
[00:41:50] How Nick manages to do zero-waste grocery shopping
[00:42:25] What is ‘produce paralysis’? What is Nick’s proposed solution to packaging waste?
[00:44:04] Low Waste Tip #4: Avoid single-use plastic in the produce section
[00:45:24] Nick’s low waste hack: Put the jar in warm water for 10 minutes to remove the adhesive label, and reuse the jar for drinking or plant propagation!
[00:46:47] Low Waste Tip #5: Don’t be shy to ask if you can use your own containers for your consumables!
[00:47:39] Maria weighs in on the different straws from her own experiences (make sure you clean them!)
[00:49:28] What do we do with our plastic nursery pots? a. bring them to a nursery, b. cache, c. make a tent for your drainage hole
[00:53:38] Low Waste Tip #6: Grow something new in your used nursery pots
[00:54:06] The company that Nick trusts to recycle his plastics
[00:55:31] Propagating your plants can also help your recycle and upcycle
[00:56:30] Low Waste Tip #7: Choose sustainable soil options
[00:57:44] Low Waste Tip #8: Know your plant number! (we’re serious!)
[00:59:00] Your plant consumption should be healthy AND environmentally-responsible
[01:00:28] Low Waste Tip #9: Buy your plants from your local businesses
[01:01:46] Plant shops that Nick and Maria recommend
[01:04:05] Listener Question #1: Can you compost perlite?
[01:04:49] Listener Question #2: Are there alternatives to plastic nursery pots and stickers?
[01:06:28] Why you should support CSA
[01:07:47] Why low waste and sustainable living is important to Nick
[01:09:09] Our responsibility to our environment as plant parents!
[01:10:24] Maria’s realizations and future commitment to the low waste living movement
 
Mentioned in our conversation:
Produce Paralysis Blog by Nick Cutsumpas
BAGR Episode How to Manage a Large Plant Collection
Netflix’s The Big Flower Fight
Pela Case
Lucy Biggers of NowThis
Medley Furniture
Avocado Green Mattress
Recover Brands
WallyGro
Precious Plastic
Folia Collective
Espoma
Greenery Unlimited
noissue
Crop Swap LA
 
Which small low-waste swap could your plants inspire you to try this week?
Check out the full show notes and blog for practical, beginner-friendly ideas to get started!
 
Follow Nick
Website
Instagram
YouTube
Facebook
LinkedIn
Book
 
Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever stopped to consider the stories that trees could tell if they could speak? In this episode of Growing Joy with Plants, I’m thrilled to welcome the incredible Beronda Montgomery, a renowned botanist and author, as we dive deep into her groundbreaking new book, When Trees Testify. Together, we explore the profound connection between humans and plants, particularly how trees bear witness to history, including the often-overlooked narratives of black American history. This conversation is not just about botany; it’s about understanding the emotional and historical significance that trees hold in our lives.
Beronda shares her enlightening journey from studying the intricate world of botany to uncovering the rich tapestry of stories that trees represent, especially in relation to African American history. We discuss the themes of land trauma, the importance of storytelling in understanding plant life, and how trees serve as living witnesses to the past. You’ll hear about Baronda’s transformative visit to a plantation that ignited her passion for exploring the historical significance of trees, and how these majestic beings can guide us toward healing and wellness rooted in nature.
As plant lovers and plant parents, we often seek ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with our green companions. This episode emphasizes the need for holistic plant care, mindful gardening, and the joy of nurturing plants as a form of home-based wellness. Beronda’s insights on the intersection of botany, personal history, and cultural heritage will inspire you to reflect on your own experiences with plants and how they contribute to your mental health and joyful living.
Join us as we unpack these vital themes and learn how to better care for our plants, whether it’s dealing with pesky plant pests, understanding humidity for plants, or mastering watering tips to keep our green friends thriving. Let’s dig into the stories that our plants hold and recognize the rich narratives they embody.
 
In this episode, we learn:
[02:01] Do you want to join my 2026 Growing Joy class experience?
[02:53] Meet my plant friend Beronda Montgomery!
[05:23] Why Beronda’s work extends beyond botany into history and activism
[09:23] Why When Trees Testify matters and what sparked its creation
[11:29] What is land trauma?
[14:27] What happened during their visit to the McLeod Plantation?
[15:25] The Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening
[16:51] Espoma Organic
[22:03] What is plant communication/tree communication?
[23:02] What are “witness trees” and their part in the collective history?
[25:06] How an enslaved botanist shaped the pecan industry
[28:23] How reclaiming wisdom can help heal land trauma
[32:29] Why is the Willow Tree chapter the most personal to write for Beronda?
[33:46] Uncovering the Elaine, Arkansas massacre through plants
[35:57] How trees help identify forgotten sacred spaces
[36:17] Why trees matter globally as historical indicators
[37:17] What does "Sankofa" mean?
[39:03] Why Apple trees have such a great impact on history
[42:58] Life at Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute and what’s next for Beronda
[45:27] Where to find Beronda’s work, events, and future talks
 
Mentioned in our conversation:
Book: When Trees Testify by Beronda Montgomery
Book: Lessons from Plants by Beronda Montgomery
Book: An Apple for Harriet Tubman by Glennette Tilley Turner & Susan Keeter
Book: All That She Carried by Tuya Miles
Book: How the Word Is Passed by Clint Smith
Book: Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Article: Red Summer 1919: Tree memorializing black Americans killed in Elaine, Arkansas, cut down
 
To learn more about how Beronda explores Black American history through botany,
check out the full show notes and blog here!
 
Follow Beronda:
Website
Instagram
Books
Bsky
 
Thank you to our episode sponsors:
Quarto: Essential Guide to Ecological Gardening by The American Horticultural Society
Grab the Essential Guide to Ecological Gardeningat quarto.com and wherever books are sold.
Espoma Organic
Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront. 
 
Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

African violets often get a bad reputation as fussy, old-fashioned houseplants, but what if they’ve just been misunderstood? In this African violet care guide, we’re bringing back a favorite episode from the Best of Growing Joy series to change the way you think about caring for African violets.
Lisa from Houseplant Guru joins us to bust common African violet myths and explain why these so-called “grandma plants” are actually some of the most rewarding indoor flowering plants you can grow. African violets bloom indoors with far less effort than many houseplants, including hoyas.
We cover everything you need to know about African violet care, from light and watering to repotting and reblooming, so you’ll feel confident growing African violets again even if you’ve struggled with them before.
 
In this episode, we learn:
Where did African violets originate?
How do African violets grow outdoors?
What is a gesneriad?
How to care for African violets (watering, light, soil)
Best watering practices for African Violets
When to repot African violets
How to Fertilize African violets
Bloom Cycles: How to have your African violet stay in bloom
 
Mentioned in our conversation:
African Violet Society
The Violet Barn
Lyndon Lyon Greenhouses
 
What African violet myth are you ready to let go of after this episode?
Check out the full show notes and blog for the complete African violet care guide!
 
Follow Lisa
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
Facebook
Books
Blogs
 
Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you ready to transform your relationship with nature and unlock the secrets to true wellness? Join me in the first episode of Season 11 of "Growing Joy with Plants," where I take you on a reflective journey through the past year of my life as a plant care educator, podcaster, and fellow plant lover. This episode is packed with insights on how nature therapy can elevate your mental health, helping you reconnect with the natural world while nurturing your beloved plants.
As I share my heartfelt gratitude for each of you amazing listeners, I dive into the exciting transitions I experienced in 2025. From doubling the number of podcast episodes to launching my very own digital course, this year has been a whirlwind of growth and learning. But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing; I’ve faced challenges that tested my resilience, and through it all, I’ve discovered the profound connection between caring for our plants and our personal well-being.
Looking ahead to 2026, I’m thrilled to announce a fresh focus on self-care and the healing power of nature. We’ll explore how nature therapy can enhance your home-based wellness journey, moving beyond just plant care to encompass a holistic approach to joyful living. I’m also excited to share that I’m pursuing certification as a forest therapy guide! This endeavor will allow us to delve into the significance of forest therapy and its incredible benefits for mental health.
Join me in upcoming classes designed to help you reflect on the past year and realign your intentions for the new one. Together, we’ll cultivate joy through nature and deepen our connection with the world around us. So grab your favorite houseplant, find a cozy spot, and let’s embark on this journey of growth and healing!
Join us in the Growing Joy in 2026 2 class experience! https://growingjoywithmaria.com/2026
In this episode, we learn:
[00:00] A big intention shift for 2026 and a new chapter for Growing Joy!
[02:30] A trip down memory lane for 2025! (doubling content, launching courses, etc.)
[03:25] What went into making the Growing Joy with Plants Masterclass
[06:57] How I may relaunch the  Growing Joy Garden Society
[07:37] Personal transitions, health challenges, and putting down roots in Florida
[08:43] Why I feel like I’m outgrowing the constant “how to water plants” content
[09:20] Why I want to focus on “self care through plant care” content in 2026
[10:20] How to water ourselves via caring for houseplants
[11:01] Why connecting with nature matters more than how you do it
[12:41] What’s staying the same and what’s expanding in the podcast
[13:20] Why plants have been my anchor through hard years
[16:34] Becoming a sound bath practitioner and using it to create healing experiences
[17:08] The big announcement: training as a forest therapy guide!
[17:41] What is forest therapy? (aka forest bathing)
[19:12] How forest therapy awakens the senses and calms the nervous system
[21:14] Remembering we are part of nature (not visitors to it)
[22:11] Creating a podcast mini-series about forest therapy with the help of ANFT
[23:33] Why deeper connection with nature supports planetary health
[25:00] Introducing “Growing Joy in 2026,” a Lunar New Year class series!
[26:08] Reflecting, releasing, and composting lessons from 2025
 
Mentioned in our conversation:
Growing Joy in 2026 Class Series
Forest Therapy Guide Certification | Forest Bathing Training
What's Your Plant Parent Personality?
Understanding Natural Light
The Foolproof Plant Picking Formula
Houseplant SOS
Repot with Confidence
 
Interested in learning more about forest therapy?
Check out the full show notes and blog here!
 
Follow Maria and Growing Joy:
Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung
Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!
Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)
Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!
Instagram: @growingjoywithmaria
Tiktok: @growingjoywithmaria
Subscribe to the Growing Joy Youtube channel! /growingjoywithmaria
Website: www.growingjoywithmaria.com
Pinterest: @growingjoywithmaria

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.