August 15, 2025
There are days when I look around my garden, both the patch of earth outside and the leafy friends inside my home, and I get this overwhelming feeling. It’s a mix of pride and a touch of panic. “I fear I’ve let them gain too much power…” I whisper to myself, usually while trying to find space for yet another new sprout or wrestling a particularly vigorous vine.
This isn’t about my houseplants staging a quiet coup, though sometimes a sprawling Pothos or a climbing Philodendron feels like it’s taking over. It’s about the sheer, unadulterated abundance that comes from nurturing life. It’s the rewarding challenge of managing growth that has, frankly, exceeded my wildest expectations.
The Indoor Jungle:
My living room has started to feel like a miniature botanical garden. The Monstera deliciosa I got as a tiny twig three years ago now has leaves the size of dinner plates, and new aerial roots are reaching out like curious fingers. My Philodendron family has expanded so much that I’m considering building a dedicated wall for them – hence, my “Philodendron Paradise.” It’s a joyful problem, but it requires strategy.
When a plant outgrows its pot, like my current Monstera situation, the obvious solution is repotting. It’s not just about giving them more room; it’s about providing fresh nutrients and a chance to assess the root system. If a plant is getting a bit too wild, pruning is essential. Not only does it help manage the size, but it often encourages bushier, healthier growth. I’ve learned to make cuttings from my overzealous plants, giving them a new lease on life in separate pots or sharing them with friends. It’s a cycle of growth, management, and sharing that’s incredibly satisfying.
The Outdoor Abundance:
Out in the backyard, the same principle applies, just on a grander scale. My tomato plants, the Romas in particular this year, have gone wonderfully wild. They’ve produced so much fruit that I’m spending my evenings canning, pickling, and finding creative ways to use them all. From my garden to your plate, as I often say, has taken on a whole new meaning.
This year, I’ve been particularly focused on ‘mapping my garden’s story.’ It’s not just about knowing what’s planted where; it’s about understanding the narrative of growth. What thrived? What needed more attention? What can I propagate for next season? Pruning here is less about aesthetics and more about air circulation, light penetration, and directing energy. It’s about making space for the next flush of growth, ensuring the plants that feed me continue to do so abundantly.
Embracing the Overwhelm:
It’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed when your passion projects take on a life of their own. But I’ve found that embracing this ‘overwhelm’ is part of the joy. It means my efforts are paying off. It means life is thriving. My strategy isn’t about control, but about thoughtful management. It’s about giving these beautiful, growing things the space and care they need to flourish, and in turn, they offer us so much bounty and beauty. It’s a constant, wonderful lesson in patience, observation, and the sheer power of nature.
So yes, they might be gaining power, but it’s a power that enriches my life, fills my kitchen, and brings an incredible amount of peace. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.