1 minute read
Plants for Wannabe Plant Parents
BY JAZMINE HAWKINS
Former plant killer and current plant parent, Natasha Dean, waited among other plant parents, killers and hopeful first-timers. The line for the UCF Arboretum plant sale stretched as students awaited the chance to keep something alive.
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“Some of them are thriving; some of them aren’t doing too well,” Dean said as she questioned why her hibiscus was drooping.
Students like Dean go to the Arboretum for the plants and a nice place to relax; other students go for a home away from home.
Across campus, you can find many students, like Fabiana Antezana, who have a chosen family.
“I didn’t really know anybody but coming over [to the Arboretum] — everyone has received me with open arms,” Antezana, an environmental studies major and Arboretum intern, said.
The Arboretum staff has become a found family for students who work there, and its become a rewarding experience for personal growth. Maximillion Meader, a senior biology major and green house co-coordinator, has been involved with the Arboretum since 2019. For Meader, the Arboretum helps students with personal development. “I would be a completely different person if I hadn’t had this experience,” Meader said. “I feel like a lot of people here can say that.”
Family and home are synonymous for Kathryn Badolato, a senior environmental studies major and Arboretum intern.
“I’m always here so it’s kind of like another home,” Badolato said. “If I'm not doing classes or at my apartment, I’m here.”
String of Pearls
Pothos
Plants for People Who Overwater
Monstera and Pothos plants need to be watered once the top of the soil starts drying out. Both thrive with bright, indirect sunlight. Some pothos can grow up to 10 feet long, with vines even climbing walls. If kept indoors, make sure to mist the monstera plant once a week.
Plants for People Who Underwater
Succulents, like Snake Plants and String of Pearls, along with lavender need to be nearly dried out between watering. Allow six hours of direct sunlight for succulents and full sun for lavender.
