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Horticulturalists are warning that with many people in Britain returning to the workplace, their houseplants may suffer from post-lockdown loneliness, starved of the sound of our voices.
Expert fear that social isolation could stunt the development of plants after months of keeping their owners (if, indeed, one can “own” a plant) company every day. Turn over a new leaf, they advise, and leave radios on in empty homes. Or buy a companion plant to help them stem their loneliness. Horticultural expert Angela Slater, of Hayes Garden World in Cumbria, says:
“Plants can sense when they’re around another plant, and it’s been proven that it’s better for their wellbeing if they’re around a ‘sibling’ plant, as they don’t use up energy trying to compete with a non-familiar plant.”
After a year at home with her orchid,
Seetha Dodd was rewarded with a large spray of blooms. Could her words of encouragement have played a part?
A woman appreciating plants. Biophilia researcher Dr Dominique Hes says: ‘Relationships are key here, whether it is how you speak, or you notice they need water, or new soil, or nutrients.’ Photograph: Andres R/Getty Images
A woman appreciating plants. Biophilia researcher Dr Dominique Hes says: ‘Relationships are key here, whether it is how you speak, or you notice they need water, or new soil, or nutrients.’ Photograph: Andres R/Getty Images
SeethaDodd