Plants do more than brighten a room. Science has shown that they have the power to elevate our mood, soothe our stress and even improve our fitness in the process of caring for them. Real Simple's The Power of Plants outlines the many benefits of the gardening life and then guides you through the process of becoming a plant parent. Whether you are picking out plants for the windowsill or the office, cultivating a vegetable garden in the backyard or lining your front porch with perennials, this issue will help you choose the right plants and instruct you in the proper way to care for them. This issue is designed to help you and your plants thrive together.
The Power of Plants
Opener • Having plants in your life can improve your mental and physical health, connect you to community, and even help sustain you in a moment of crisis.
It’s Good to See Green • Scientists say that simply being around plants can bring joy and productivity.
For Sound Mind and Body • Working in the garden can yield a surprising variety of health benefits.
A Place of Community • From swapping seeds to sharing plots, gardening fosters togetherness.
A Life Force • In the face of post-traumatic stress, a novice gardener discovered that nurturing living things helped her spirits bloom again.
My Perfectly Imperfect Garden • Tending to flowers doesn’t always work out like you hoped. And that can be where the pleasure lies.
Opener • Here’s how to choose the vegetation that is right for you—and the simple steps that will keep your plants thriving.
Parenting a Plant Baby • Handling these common problems will help your greenery survive and thrive.
A Quick Trick for Happier Plants • Sometimes less is more, so get out those pruning shears.
7 Hardy Plants That Are Just Right for the Office • A happier workspace is a pot away.
The Right Way to Water • Keep those greens thriving with these must-know watering tips.
How to Water Your Plants When You Go Away • Don’t let your pothos prevent you from enjoying your vacation.
Impossible-to-Kill Outdoor Plants • Low light? Sandy soil? No problem!
How to Propagate Succulents From Leaves or Stems • Grow your plant collection without a trip to the store.
Caring for Your Lawn Made Simple, and Smart • Save time and supplies—and avoid blisters and backaches—by easing up on landscaping chores. Bonus: It’s good for the earth, too.
Opener • It’s time to get your hands dirty as you learn how to plant your own fruits, vegetables, herbs, and festive flower gardens.
Gardening Tips for Beginners • Four experts share everything you need to know to get growing.
The Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Own Tomatoes • With this expert-approved information, bringing the king of summer produce to your backyard will be simple.
The Easiest Fruits and Vegetables to Grow • Along with tomatoes, these versatile, low-maintenance plants are great for beginners.
Better Side by Side • These companion plants grow stronger when they’re together.
Growing Potatoes at Home • They’re the perfect crop to plant in early spring.
The Best Perennials for Adding Color to Your Garden • These popular flowers make a splash every spring.
7 Fragrant Annuals • You’ll definitely want to stop and smell these blooms.
Opener • From choosing the right varieties to creating the best displays, here’s the smart way to integrate plants into your environment.
A Garden for Any Space • Four garden plans that you—with a thumb of any color—can execute this spring to get the greenery you want without having to dig up your whole yard.
How to Choose a Plant for Every Room in Your House • Why bird-of-paradise belongs in...
