Planting in a pandemic- Nourishing your soul

Leen Ahmed

With MCO 3.0 well underway, there is the feeling of absolute desperation hanging in the air. The sun shines, and the air is balmy and more often than not, every day looks like the perfect day to be outside but of course, you cannot do that. As students, we can admit there’s not much to look forward to.

For quite a number of people who get in touch with Mavinia Allagu, founder of Pretty Plants based in Kuala Lumpur, just having the added touch of green to your window or counters does wonders in uplifting their moods.

Mavinia, whose homegrown business sells the perfect leafy additions to your home, started surprisingly with the first MCO in April 2020. Having been bored at home and wanting something to brighten up her living space, inspired her to get into the plant business and share the same happiness she felt surrounded by green.

And despite the ongoing nature of the pandemic, Mavinia expresses that their sales have been boosted by the impact of social media and having an online presence that not only influenced customers, but allowed customers to do promotion for them.

Indoor plants for sale at Pretty Plants KL

Credits: https://www.instagram.com/prettyplantskl/

The true reason behind Mavinia’s success does have the influence of how people feel around these potted creatures.

“Who doesn't love greens! I have noticed that plants make people happier, especially through those who come back and purchase more!” said Mavinia.

According to Plantscapers, not only do indoor plants reduce your blood pressure, reduce stress and boost your immune system, it also helps us relax through biophilia- the hardwired connection we feel with nature. Mohamed Hassan, a student at Taylor’s University who is very fond of greenery around his study space, claims that the benefits to his mind especially during exam seasons is very profound. He’s a plant parent who posts about his plant journey on Facebook.

So there truly is some science behind being at ease in the presence of flora and fauna.

Behind the thought process of purchasing plants, Mavinia notices how people usually go for low maintenance ones- the ones that flourish for days on end with little to no attention required from you.

And as a final note for those plant parents who struggle with yellowing and death of their little ones, Mavinia says, “Don't overthink! Always underwater instead of overwatering. The more you overthink, the more problems arise! Take it as it comes!”