About this episode
What if low waste plant parenthood began with just one houseplant? In this episode, I’m joined by urban farmer and plant coach Nick Cutsumpas (aka Farmer Nick) to explore how sustainable plant care can become a powerful gateway to mindful gardening and environmental action.As part of the Best of Growing Joy series, we revisit this meaningful conversation from the archives to look at plant parenthood through a holistic lens, one rooted in intention, awareness, and joyful living. Nick shares how caring for plants, even in a small apartment, can support low waste living and regenerative habits without perfection or pressure.This episode breaks down holistic plant care in a realistic, approachable way, offering plant parents simple shifts they can make to care for their plants, their well-being, and the planet. In this episode, we learn:[00:02:26] Introducing Nick Cutsumpas and episode key ideas[00:07:18] What Nick does, what started his plant journey (mothers DO know best!), and how plants served as his ‘saving grace’ when he moved into the city[00:10:38] Check out Nick in Netflix’s new show The Big Flower Fight![00:11:14] What is regenerative environmental action? Nick explains sustainability vs regenerative[00:13:22] Are houseplant people practicing regenerative methods with their plants? According to Nick, to see is to believe when it comes to taking care of our environment[00:15:01] How Maria realized she could be doing more sustainable practices[00:15:22] Maria’s current idea obsession: plant blindness — Nature Not Furniture![00:16:32] What Maria thinks of ‘zero waste’ and her reservations with the movement[00:17:17] Nick shares why he thinks plant blindness is similar to waste blindness[00:17:37] Why Nick strives for low waste consumption vs zero waste, how we as consumers can apply low waste consumption to the products we buy[00:19:45] Why the time to be more conscious is NOW more than ever and how taking care of plants reminds us that we can take action[00:20:47] Why Bloom and Grow Radio is doing an episode on low waste[00:21:45] Low Waste Beginner Tip #1: Reuse everything[00:22:46] Do you have tons of bubble wrap from your online orders? Save them for your next plant cutting gift![00:23:50] What is ‘waste’? For Nick, it’s everything that ends up in a landfill[00:24:38] Maria’s lightbulb moment on her waste consumption: New York’s composting system[00:25:11] The negative effects of plastics in our environment and how we can be smart and responsible with our plastic consumption[00:26:54] Why we should be cautious about greenwashing, waste segregation, and biodegradable vs compostable materials[00:28:24] Nick’s sustainability influences[00:29:13] Low Waste Tip #2: Buy quality over quantity (Yes, you save more money this way!)
