6 Ways Caring for Your Houseplants Can Be a Form of Self-Care

Plant care is more than just a task—it’s a way to nurture ourselves and find moments of calm in our busy stress-filled lives. Jon Perdomo, a plant stylist and streetwear designer known in the digital space as Plant Man P, believes that as we tend to our plants, we tend to our own well-being. Through strategic plant palettes and styling, he encourages us to think outside of weekly watering and use our botanicals to create a serene space while building inner peace.

Jon encourages us to think of plants as more than decor, but rather as companions that remind us to slow down, breathe, and enjoy life’s little green moments—read his tips below. Need some more greenery in your life? Don’t worry, shopping is on the to-do list too! Here’s to embracing the restorative powers of nature one potted plant at a time. Read on for his words of wisdom regarding plant-care as self-care.

Jon Perdomo/Plant Man P

1. Surround Yourself with Serenity 

Make sure your main workspace is surrounded by plants or some greenery. Houseplants are known to make things peaceful and zen, therefore surrounding yourself with plants while working (which can sometimes be stressful) will allow you to be calm and in a serene state of mind. Here are some office plants we love to incorporate:

Snake plants: These super-easy-to-care for plants can tolerate low to bright light, and do not need a lot of watering—water when soil is dry. They’re very drought-tolerant.

Money trees: Thought to bring good fortune, they thrive in bright indirect light. Water when dry, but make sure water drains completely as they are prone to rot.

Asparagus fern: They have a soft and whimsical look, but they can be a bit poke-y (looks can be deceiving, ha!). This plant loves bright indirect light and for its soil to be moist. Provide humidity, or keep in a a more moisture-prone environment such as the bathroom. If yellowing occurs, it’s most likely not receiving enough light.

2. Take Advantage of Plants’ Beauty Benefits

Indoor plants with larger foliage or those that require more water than your average plant bring moisture into your space which in turn, helps hydrate your skin. This is especially important during the fall and winter months when the temps are colder and your home is warm and cozy. That indoor versus outdoor temperature difference could dry out your skin faster than normal, and plants such as Monstera, peace lily, English ivy, birds of paradise, and ferns can help you restore balance.

Jon Perdomo/Plant Man P

3. Reflect

Sometimes when we take care of our plants we fail to realize that we should be taking care of ourselves too. When we water, prune, or do any type of care for them, we should also be checking in on our own well-being. Ask yourself: “Am I getting enough sun? Am I drinking enough water?” We often say that houseplant care is related to self-care because when we think of our houseplants, they remind us of us as human beings. Even when we overwater our plants, there are times where we can be mentally drowning as well. 

In 2019, my company Plant Man P started creating merch to further grow our brand. One thing we always wanted to implement is self-care/mental health quotes within our designs. One of our best-selling therapy tees, says “If you took care of yourself as much as you take care of your houseplants, you’d be in way better shape.” Some people weren’t too happy with that quote but that was exactly the point… to bring that conversation up and make sure you take care of yourself as well.

4. Sanctuary Through Soil

I have a cacti and euphorbia collection in my backyard that I call the “BackOutside Boyz” and the “Balcony Boyz.” When I’m out there, it’s like a sense of escapism. All that matters is them. I put on some good music, fire up a mosquito incense repellent, and zone out. A lot of the time, they don’t even need any maintenance, I just enjoy looking at them and seeing what’s changed from the last time I had this moment. It’s something that truly brings me joy. I think we all need a designated chill area surrounded by plants.

Jon Perdomo/Plant Man P

5. Retail Therapy

In my opinion, plant shopping is also a form of self-care. It’s another one of those things where you can just zone out and be in the moment. Grab a coffee from your favorite local coffee shop and you’re ready to go! Whether you already have a space in mind or you’re choosing whatever plant speaks to you, take this time to slow down and enjoy the simple things. 

6. Soul Styling

Lastly, plant styling is another peaceful practice. Some people overlook the importance of a good plant-and-pot combo. When I first started, I only wanted terracotta and everything had to match. Now, I enjoy seeking out those unique and one-of-a-kind pots. I treat a pot like a pair of shoes. Your choice of shoes usually completes your outfit. Same thing with a plant! Look for pots that complement the foliage, colors, and personal vibe. Whether it’s cylinder, bowl-shaped, your traditional terracotta, or a quirky “mistake”—finding that “oh this is the one!” pot brings me so much joy.