As the seasons change by Heather Lang

As an outdoor enthusiast with a degree in horticulture, I am sad to admit that I’m not one of those plant ladies whose homes look like magazine covers, adorned with vibrant, flourishing plants. Over the years, I've had plants here and there, but never for extended periods. However, this time feels different. Last holiday season, I received a stunning, full, red Poinsettia as a gift.

Initially, I made it a point to water it regularly and provide it with ample light. With my horticulture background and experience caring for Poinsettias in a greenhouse, I know what they need. Yet, the plant has been moved around my kitchen and living room, often neglected in a corner without direct sunlight for weeks at a time. I water it weekly, but that’s about all the attention I can manage during those busy periods.

Then, as my mood shifts or the seasons change, I suddenly find the time to care for it. I relocate it to a sunlit spot for a couple of weeks, prune the dead leaves, and shower it with love. I’ve often considered repotting it into a larger home, but I never expected that this same plant would still be thriving in my house today. I’m thrilled to announce that I’m nearing a year of being a plant mom!

As I nurture my Poinsettia and other green companions, I’m constantly reminded of the growth happening within our family. There’s beauty in balancing the care of both our plants and relationships, allowing them to thrive with attention, patience, and understanding.

Embracing the changing seasons, both in nature and in life, we remain grounded in the understanding that, like the poinsettia, we can bloom beautifully with the right amount of love and care. And, the cycle continues, with each chapter presenting new challenges and opportunities to grow together. Read the whole story here: https://ndfb.org/on-your-table/on-your-table-blog/as-the-seasons-change/

Credits:

Created with images by • undefined - Christmas poinsettia isolated on the vintage wooden background. • undefined - Christmas red poinsettia flower paper cut style pattern with copy space on a green background • undefined - Potted poinsettia with red and white flowers at Christmas market • undefined - Variery of winter plant decoratinos for home garden such as picea in pots, different Christmas trees in baskets, ilex aquifolium or Christmas berry holly tree, red poinsettia Christmas flower potted. • undefined - Closeup of red poinsettia flowers