Indoor plants and plant lovers are not exactly new, but during the last few years, the data shows an increase in plant owners among the 18 to 34 age group (most of them known as Millennials). In fact, according to recent statistics, millennials are more engrossed in buying plants than they are interested in buying a house or setting down some roots.
So, why is that happening? Are older generations right when they shake their head in disbelief every time they hear about Millennials?
Younger generations, starting with Millennials, have a broader view of the world. As a result, they learn from a young age about the various problems that plague this world, and constant exposure to bombastic titles, ads, and entertainment take a toll on their overall state of well-being. Therefore, they look for things and experiences that make them happy and fulfilled.
By learning how to grow plants indoors, millennials feel closer to nature, which soothes the soul. Additionally, many young adults work from home (regardless of the state of the pandemic) and spend hours in front of a computer screen. This can be a bleak life, so the need to improve your surrounding environment with beautiful plants is quite easy to understand.
Therefore, let’s explore this social phenomenon a little deeper in order to understand this new trend that puts Millennials (again) in the spotlight.
Indoor Gardening is a Pleasant Activity
Millennials don’t grow just decorative plants; some have turned to indoor gardening as a hobby. The entire process of planting and nurturing a plant to maturity is extremely satisfying, but it becomes even more so when you can reap the fruits of your work and start over.
Moreover, nowadays you have access to a wide range of tools that make indoor gardening a lot more interesting and easy to do. From containers that include self-watering systems to LED grow lights that are easy to install in your home, there are a lot of tools for plant aficionados.
Social Media was the Trigger
Visual platforms like Instagram and Pinterest helped promote the idea of gorgeous house plants that improve the atmosphere in your house. Moreover, plants are fantastic subjects for photos and videos, which are the most sought-after content formats. If you’re not familiar with this type of content, check hashtags #plantsofinstagram or #urbanjungle. But be prepared to lose at least a few hours scrolling through amazing plant-related content!
But it’s not just about getting views and followers; social media also brings plant lovers together and inspires the ones who want to start but don’t know where or how.
Physical and Mental Benefits
Millennials and younger generations are looking for meaning and purpose, which is why they are more attracted to topics that discuss life from a different perspective and try to take different paths instead of aiming first for financial wealth and family, as the older generations did.
While this may be vexing for older people, we need to keep in mind that young adults grew up with technology as part of their lives. Therefore, they need an activity that allows them to break free from scrolling, typing, and tame down the fear of missing out. Houseplants are perfect for this as they require love and attention in order to grow strong.
Wrap Up
In summary, we can say that younger generations are more focused on the idea of wellness and self-care, which is why house plants and pets are more common preoccupations than children and houses. And this turn to nature and care for mental health is not a bad thing. It’s just a new way of seeing the world.