Blog | Pinecone Home and Garden Center

A Love Affair

A growing fascination with plants is taking root in the heart of the world’s bustling lives. It’s a love affair that extends beyond the aesthetics, tapping into something deeper - a connection to nature that soothes the soul and transforms living spaces into sanctuaries. Join us as we unravel the layers of this plant craze, exploring the reasons why people across the globe are embracing the serenity, lives. Welcome to the world where greenery meets passion - the unfolding love story between people and plants.

Serenity in Shades of Green

In the hustle of modern life, people are gravitating toward the serene allure of plants. The vibrant shades of color, and the calming presence of nature in our homes - these elements provide a tranquil haven in a fast-paced world. The love for plants stems from our innate desire to create a peaceful sanctuary, fostering a sense of calm and connection with the natural world amid chaos.

Beyond Decor

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, plants offer therapeutic companionship. Caring for them becomes a ritual, a form of mindfulness that transcends the routine. The act of nurturing, from watering to pruning, provides a soothing rhythm and instills a sense of responsibility, creating a unique bond that goes beyond the confines of traditional relationships. In the quiet moments spent with our leafy friends, we discover a form of companionship that is both grounding and emotionally fulfilling.

Nature’s Palette

Plants aren’t just living decorations - they are nature’s masterpieces that bring a touch of the outdoors inside. The intricate patterns of leaves, the elegance of vines, and the varied textures create an ever-changing art gallery within our living spaces. The love for plants reflects an appreciation for the artistry that nature effortlessly weaves, turning our homes into living canvases that evolve and adapt with each passing season.

Seeds of Change

The fascination with plants goes hand in hand with their symbolic representation of growth and renewal. Witnessing a seed or cutting transform into a lush, thriving plant mirrors our journeys of personal development. The cyclical nature of growth, dormancy, and rebirth observed in plants becomes a source of inspiration, offering a tangible reminder that change and growth are natural, beautiful aspects of life.

Ecosystems of the Heart

Ultimately, the love for plants is rooted in the desire for connection to something greater than ourselves. Whether it’s the rhythmic dance of leaves in the breeze or the quiet resilience of a succulent, plants offer a connection to the cycles of nature. Through this connection, we find solace, inspiration, and a reminder that, like our leafy companions, we are part of a vast, ever-evolving ecosystem that we can nurture and be nurtured by in return.

Houseplants 101
For curious new learners and experienced plant parents

Typical Plant Problems and Tips to Solve Them

Houseplants bring beautiful life into our homes but just like any living thing, they can face challenges as they grow. In this blog post, we’ll explore some common and normal houseplant ailments and pass along some possible solutions to nurse your greenery back to good health.

Yellow Leaves

Diagnosis: Yellowing leaves near the top of your plant can signal many things including overwatering, under-watering, or nutrient deficiencies.

Remedy: Consider adjusting your watering routine to ensure it aligns with your plant's needs - some prefer to dry out and some like to stay moist. Make sure your pot has drainage so excess moisture isn’t trapped in the soil.

Is the green color just fading away? Explore some fertilizing options to give your plant a boost of nutrients.

Pro-tip: do you notice small leaves at the bottom of your plant yellowing? Don’t worry! Those are the oldest on the plant and they will head out to give the plant more energy for new growth! Leave them be or trim * them off - your choice!

Brown Tips

Diagnosis: Browning or curling tips are often a sign of dry air or inconsistent watering.

Remedy: Increase the humidity * in the air around your plant either with a humidifier or a pebble tray. Try to keep a consistent watering schedule so the plant knows when to expect its next soak.

Drooping or Wilting

Diagnosis: Overwatering, underwatering, or root issues can lead to drooping stems and leaves

Remedy: Adjust your watering habits and reassess. The leaves can either be weighed down with too much moisture or unable to support themselves if there is not enough. Check your soil * and see what your plant is asking for. Check for root rot by inspecting the roots - healthy roots are firm and typically white or light brown in color.

Leggy Stems

Diagnosis: Sparse foliage and long, stretched-out stems suggest inadequate light.

Remedy: Move your plant to a brighter location or offer an alternative light source. You can prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth!

Most plants will naturally grow towards their source of light so if it’s only coming from one direction, be sure to rotate your plant occasionally to keep it nicely rounded.

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Pet-Friendly Houseplants

Pet parents who are also plant enthusiasts need to know the houseplants that are considered to be dog and cat safe. Whether it's mischief or curiosity, dogs and cats might be tempted to chew and consume houseplants so it’s important to ensure that you choose pet-friendly plants for your home.

Of course, for the sake of your plants and your pets, you’ll want to keep all houseplants out of general reach of your pets. But, because some houseplants are toxic to cats and dogs, it's wise to investigate each plant you purchase to ensure peace of mind if your pet happens to chew a plant's leaves or roots. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is a good resource for learning about plant toxicity for cats, dogs, and horses. is a list of beautiful non-toxic indoor plants that are safe for cats and dogs:

1. American Rubber Plant 15. Air Plants 2. Spider Plant 16. Palms
3. Cast Iron Plant 17. Haworthia 4. Calathea

5. African Violet
6. Orchids

7. Ferns

8. Succulents
9. Gerbera Daisy
10. Christmas cactus

11. Parlor Palm

12. Peperomia

13. Bromeliad

14.Money Tree