My House Plant Journey: From Orchids to a Full Indoor Jungle
Plant collecting has been part of my life for more than twenty years. What started as a small hobby has now become a full indoor jungle that I share through my YouTube channel Life of Bellina. In this post I want to take you through my journey from growing orchids and palm trees to discovering rare plants at shows and creating an online community of plant lovers.
How It All Began
My love for plants started when I was young, helping my mother take care of our family garden. Those early experiences shaped the way I look at plants today. When I moved out on my own, I knew I wanted to surround myself with greenery. My first plants were orchids and the essential palm tree for the living room. From that small start, my plant collection grew steadily.
Discovering Unique Plants at Home Shows
One of the most memorable parts of my plant journey was attending home and garden shows. These events were full of vendors, landscape ideas, and garden decorations, but what caught my attention were the unusual plants.
One year I purchased a brugmansia that became a centerpiece in my apartment. Its large blooms filled the room with fragrance, making it unforgettable. Another standout purchase was a plumeria stick about three feet long. At first it felt strange to buy what looked like a bare stick, but I took the chance. Nearly ten years later it has grown into a massive plant that blooms every year with vibrant colors and inviting fragrance.
Sharing My Collection on Instagram
As social media grew, I started using Instagram to document my plant collection. It was like a digital diary where I could share each new bloom, new leaf, or exciting plant find. I attended the Southern Ontario Orchid Society Show and Sale, as well as the Toronto Cactus and Succulent Society Show and Sale, always bringing back photos of rare orchids, succulents, and cacti.
My favorite orchid, Phalaenopsis
bellina, became such an important part of my journey that I named my account Life of Bellina.
From Instagram to YouTube
The excitement from sharing plant photos inspired me to start a YouTube channel. Viewers enjoyed watching my plant shopping trips, plant hauls, and show highlights in video form. Creating content has been rewarding not just for me but also for the growing community of plant enthusiasts around the world who follow along.
A Lifelong Passion
Looking back, what began with a single orchid and palm tree has turned into two decades of plant collecting. Whether keeping plants in my office or choosing a home with southern exposure for the best light, plants have influenced many aspects of my life.
The journey continues, and I am glad to share it with others through Life of Bellina.
👉 If you love orchids plumeria or discovering new and unusual house plants make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel LifeofBellina and join the journey.