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What's a NODE? And another key houseplant lingo you're too afraid to ask


What’s a NODE? And Other Houseplant Lingo You’re Too Afraid to Ask

If you’ve ever been scrolling through plant posts on Instagram or chatting with fellow plant parents, you’ve probably come across some odd-sounding terms—"NODE," "propagating," and even "root rot." While it’s all part of the houseplant culture, sometimes it feels like you're in a secret club, and you’re not quite sure of the lingo. No worries, though! We’re here to break down the basics of houseplant speak, so you can sound like a pro next time you're at the garden centre or swapping tips with mates.



  1. NODE Here’s one that pops up a lot, especially if you’re into propagating. In simple terms, a node is the part of the stem where leaves, branches, or buds grow. It’s a key player in plant propagation—snip a cutting from a plant with a node, and you’re well on your way to growing a new one! So, next time someone mentions "cut at the node," just nod and pretend you knew all along.


  2. Propagating This is just a fancy word for growing new plants from cuttings, seeds, or other plant parts. Whether you're snipping a stem from your pothos or separating some baby succulents, propagating is how plant lovers get new greenery without spending extra cash. It’s also super satisfying to watch your new plant thrive—like your own little slice of nature!


  3. Root Rot Not the term you want to hear when showing off your plant collection! Root rot happens when a plant’s roots sit in water for too long, causing them to decay. It can be a nightmare for your plants, but it’s easy to avoid—just make sure your pots have drainage holes, and let the soil dry out between waterings. Your plant will thank you for it.


  4. Hardy Plants Kiwis are no strangers to our unpredictable weather, so it’s important to know which plants can handle the occasional frost or sudden downpour. Hardy plants, like succulents and ferns, are tough cookies—they can withstand chilly temps and don’t mind a bit of rough treatment.


  5. Monstera Moment If you’re in the know, you’ve seen the Monstera deliciosa popping up everywhere. This iconic plant with its split, heart-shaped leaves has been all the rage in recent years. If you’ve got one, you’re officially on trend, and if you haven’t—what are you waiting for? It's like the plant version of the latest must-have fashion piece.



If you’re ever in the mood for some plant-inspired gifts or just looking for something special to add to your collection, make sure to check out GiftTree NZ, GiftTree US, and GiftTree AU. You never know what unique items you might find to complement your plant-filled space!

 
 
 

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