New research has revealed that a significant number of houseplant owners regularly engage in conversation with their leafy companions, with many believing these chats offer a genuine sense of escape from daily stresses. A study commissioned by the Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland, involving 2,000 adults, found that one in five plant enthusiasts admit to talking to their plants throughout the day.
The Therapeutic Power of Plant Chat
For those who confide in their greenery, these conversations are far from one-sided. Remarkably, 42% of these conversationalists believe their plants actually understand what is being said to them. The research highlights how these interactions have become a meaningful part of many people's daily routines, with two-thirds of those who chat to their potted pals reporting that these moments provide a valuable escape from the chaos of everyday life.
What Do People Discuss With Their Plants?
The study uncovered several popular topics that plant owners regularly discuss with their green housemates:
- Growth monitoring: Checking on how well the plants are developing
- Hydration comments: Noting when plants look particularly "thirsty"
- General praise: Offering compliments and encouragement
- Weather discussions: 26% enjoy talking about sunshine and atmospheric conditions
- Random thoughts: 22% will run ideas or passing thoughts past their plants
Beyond Conversation: Musical Companionship
The interaction doesn't stop at verbal communication. The research found that 19% of those who engage with their plants will sing or play music for them, creating a multi-sensory environment for their green companions. However, only 45% of respondents actually believe that talking to plants has a noticeable benefit on their growth, suggesting that the primary motivation is often personal rather than horticultural.
A Private Practice With Shared Benefits
While the majority (68%) keep their plant conversations strictly private, a quarter of those who live with others report that their friends or family members also chat with the household greenery. This indicates that plant communication can sometimes become a shared household activity rather than an entirely solitary pursuit.
The therapeutic benefits appear significant, with 21% of plant owners considering talking to their plants to be an effective stress-buster, and 17% having incorporated it into a regular calming routine.
Royal Inspiration and Modern Acceptance
Monique Kemperman of the Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland noted that the popularity of talking to plants was significantly advanced by then-Prince Charles back in the 1980s. "He was very ahead of his time in that respect," she observed, highlighting how what was once considered eccentric behaviour has gradually gained wider acceptance.
Kemperman added: "A houseplant is never going to tell you that something you've shared is weird or wrong – and sometimes just saying things out loud can help you process them. A listening ear doesn't always have to come from a human."
Discover Your Perfect Plant Match
Given the growing recognition of plants as companions rather than mere decorations, many people are now curious about which greenery might best suit their personality. By answering just six simple questions about your habits, preferences, and lifestyle, you can be matched with your ideal houseplant companion – one that might just become your new favourite conversational partner.
Whether you're seeking a low-maintenance friend for occasional chats or a more demanding companion that encourages regular interaction, there's a perfect plant match waiting to be discovered. Why not explore which green housemate might complement your personality and potentially enhance your daily wellbeing?
