CH X KOJO: YOUR FIRST PET PLANT

TWO MAJOR NEWS! I just turned 27 and, I have officially adopted my first pet plant (plants to be exact. Ambitious, I know). Coming back to Jakarta, my views towards owning a pet in my tiny apartment is always filled with pity. The environment in Jakarta does not favour the conventional pets. Noise pollution, limited living space and many other reasons on top of that, it doesn't make much sense for me to own one. After much deliberate thoughts, encouragement from friends and consistently scrolling through the #houseplantclub movement on Instagram (If you haven't seen it, I'm not sure where you've been on the digital sphere), I'm plunging into the deep abyss of owning pet plants!

Like many others (I believe), I've always been interested in how plants are so visually pleasing. Do you remember how "instaworthy" a room can be once it is decorated with plants? As appealing as it gets, being a new plant owner is very intimidating. There's just too much information on the internet. Where do I even start? I didn't know anything about having my own plants, and the last I checked — I killed my own cactus. Lucky enough, my good friend Sarah Judith from KŌJO plant has the most magical green fingers. She is the definitely the definition of plant mama and goddess. With this post, I hope we'll inspire you by giving some proper and practical advice in picking up your first plant.

What are the things do we need to note before choosing our first pet plant?
SJ: Every person has their personal preferences, and it depends on what kind of plant they're looking for. It can depend on whether you're looking for a plant for your living room, what is the size of plant you're looking for and even down to the colours you prefer. If you are still confused, you can drop by our place and let us advice you on that!"

What are the benefits of house plants?

SJ: There.. are so many benefits of having plants! Other than practical decoration, they purify and detox the air. We use chemical-based perfumes, and other types of manmade fresheners. Plants help to take that toxic substance out of your rooms. They really do wonder in helping improving health! Plants also teach you many life lessons and values, such as patience,  and love.

What are the recommended plants for new parents like me?
SJ: I've picked up some potted house plants that are easy to maintain and appropriate for first-time plant parents like you.

Jade Plant, also known as the Lucky Plant is a good pick for many with small apartments. The belief is that this plant brings good luck, so this is perfect for one who believes in feng shui. It doesn't grow too wildly and is a perfect piece for those who are first timers at plant parenting.

A leafier variety, Yellow Bromelia, is an interesting one. You might spot some varities in KÕJO with pink leaves (that's because of the sunlight!). It grows in abudance and is fairly easy to care. In case you have pets like cats or dogs, this pot of plant is non-toxic and is very pet friendly.

Petonia is a perfect plant that does not need too much water. Most prefer to keep it near sinks as all they need is a bit sprinkle of water. They also don't grow too wildly and looks extremely cute.

Calathea Plant

Final Words and Extra Tips
Download PlantApp (For Apple users, Android users) the plant identification application This application will be your guidebook for all plants. Just snap a photo of the plant, it will identify the type of plant and give you the exact guidelines to care for it. If still insufficient, you can also plug the name of the plant and google it!

Recommended additional reading Though the world wide web provides many information, I like having physical book copies. They act as nice coffee table books as well. One favourite of mine is "How to Raise a Plant and Make It Love You Back".

Don't be afraid to try Be confident! Don't be afraid to ask if your plant needs repotting, trimmed or moving. Plants are just like your normal animal pets, the more you care for them, the more they will grow. Don't be afraid to do research and have an open mind to learning.

Instagram communities to follow I love going onto Instagram to get help and to admire another person collection of plants. Some communities you need to be following are House Plant Journal, and House Plant Club.

As a part of my birthday treat, we're giving 1 lucky winner a chance to become a new plant parent! Want to know how to participate? Find out here! Start spreading love to your plant and it will definitely love you back. P.S. Don't forget to name your new plant!

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KŌJO Plant is located together with Cayenne Kemang on Jl. Kemang Selatan VIII Blok C No.2 Jakarta Selatan 12730.

If you're interested in gifting your closed ones a plant, KŌJO has special promotions for Lebaran packages. All CATHHALIM readers with a special discount of 10% off* for all your plant purchases. I wish you great luck in becoming a great plant parent!

*Limited offer is available. Please mention that you're our reader to receive an instant 10% off.