National Houseplant Day: Meet Carl The Cactus.

This is Carl. Carl is my Cactus.

I’m not really a house plant person. I’m a rubbish gardener with a rather terrible track record.

But Carl is an attempt at redemption. I mean how hard can it be to keep a Cactus alive?!

Having seen the leap in houseplant lovers on Instagram over the years, I decided to have a look to see how houseplants could benefit. If you’re not already a convert, then definitely keep reading.

Studies have shown that houseplants in the work environment can boost job satisfaction and lower stress. Caring for houseplants can also have a positive affect on mental well-being, and I’m definitely finding that with Carl — especially when I take him for a little walk onto the balcony to soak up the sunshine.

Houseplants have also been linked to increases in creativity, productivity and focus. And with my ambitious new year resolutions, I need a lot of that.

So, I’m (carefully) embracing Carl and will probably adopt a few more friends in the new year.

Watch this space!