Interview with Kellyn Kennerly: A Global Perspective on Plant Care and Wellness

We’re thrilled to share an insightful interview with Kellyn Kennerly, the force behind Easy Growing and an Instagram community of over 263k followers. Kellyn’s journey into the world of houseplants began as a personal refuge during a challenging time, and today, she has transformed that passion into a thriving platform where plant care meets mental health and wellness. Her new book, Happy, Healthy Houseplants, is a much-anticipated release aimed at helping plant lovers avoid the common pitfalls of "over-caring" for their plants.

Kellyn’s approach goes beyond just keeping plants alive—she emphasises the holistic benefits of nurturing them. In this interview, she shares how her platform evolved into a global community, her favourite DIY plant projects, and the ever-growing connection between plant care and mental well-being. We also dive into fascinating differences between houseplant trends in the UK and USA, giving us a broader perspective on our shared hobby.

Kellyn hails from Arkansas, a state located in the southern United States, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. Often called "The Natural State," Arkansas is famous for its expansive mountain ranges, such as the Ozarks and the Ouachitas, as well as its beautiful lakes and rivers. Notable residents of Arkansas have included former U.S. President Bill Clinton and music legend Johnny Cash, both of whom have left their mark on history and culture.

Fun fact about Arkansas: it’s home to Crater of Diamonds State Park, one of the few places in the world where visitors can search for real diamonds and keep what they find!

We thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and the chance to learn from Kellyn's unique view of plant care, blending wellness, lifestyle, and the beauty of nature. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Your new book, Happy, Healthy Houseplants, aims to help people stop "loving their plants to an early grave." What are some common signs that someone is over-caring for their houseplants, and how can they avoid this?

One of the most common signs of over-caring is over-watering. People often think they're helping their plants thrive by giving them constant attention, but too much love can lead to waterlogged soil and, eventually, root rot. In the book, I emphasize using the "finger-test"—simply stick your finger about an inch into the soil to check moisture. If it's still damp, hold off on watering. Also, I recommend focusing on non-intrusive care, like cleaning leaves or rotating plants, to satisfy your nurturing instincts without overdoing it!

You’ve built a thriving online community with over 263k followers on Instagram alone. What inspired you to start Easy Growing, and how has it evolved since you began?

Easy Growing started during a difficult time for me, personally. I was struggling with anxiety and needed an outlet that provided both creativity and calm. Plants became my solace, and I wanted to share that sense of peace with others. Since then, Easy Growing has evolved into a community where we talk about plants, mental health, and finding balance. It’s been amazing to see people connect not only over plant care but over self-care, too. The journey has shifted from just sharing tips to fostering real conversations about well-being.

Your career revolves around educating others on plant care. What’s been the most rewarding part of your journey in helping people create their own indoor jungles?

The most rewarding part is definitely the messages I get from people telling me how their plants are thriving, but more importantly, how caring for them has positively impacted their mental health. It’s not just about having a home full of greenery, though that’s wonderful—it's about helping people feel empowered and connected. Seeing others find joy and a sense of accomplishment in nurturing plants makes everything so worth it!

Your book highlights actionable solutions for common houseplant issues like yellowing leaves, pests, and root rot. Which of these problems do you find most common in your social media community, and what’s your number one tip for tackling them?

Root rot from over-watering is by far the most common issue. My number one tip to tackle it is prevention—use a well-draining soil and always check the moisture levels before watering. If your plant’s already suffering, repotting in fresh soil and trimming back damaged roots is the best way to revive it. And remember, it's okay to let the soil dry out a little—plants can bounce back from dryness much easier than from being over-loved with water!

You’ve mentioned DIY projects in your book. Do you have a personal favourite project that you’ve done in your own home, and how did it influence your approach to indoor plant decor?

One of my favourites is the self-sustainable terrarium. I love the idea of creating tiny ecosystems that can thrive on their own with minimal intervention. It’s a reflection of how I’ve come to see plant care—set them up for success with the right conditions, and then step back a bit. It influenced my approach to decor by making me more thoughtful about how I balance aesthetics with the plants’ natural needs.

You’re based in the USA, where growing seasons can vary dramatically depending on location. How do you personally adjust your plant care routines throughout the year, and what unique challenges does your own climate present?

Living in Arkansas, we have pretty hot summers and cooler winters, so my plant care shifts with the seasons. During the summer, I’m all about making sure my plants get enough water without overheating, and I use grow lights in the winter to compensate for the shorter days. Humidity can be a challenge in both seasons—too little in the winter and too much in the summer—so I rely on humidifiers and fans to keep things balanced.

Social media plays such a huge role in connecting plant lovers from all over the world. What are some memorable moments or interactions with your followers that have stood out during your career?

One of the most memorable moments was when a follower messaged me to say that caring for their plants during a particularly hard time had helped them overcome depression. That was when I really understood how deeply plants can impact our well-being. Another time, a follower sent me photos of their once-neglected houseplant that they’d revived using tips from one of my reels—seeing that transformation was incredibly fulfilling!

You’ve seen a massive growth in interest for houseplants in recent years. What trends do you think will continue to grow in popularity, and are there any surprising trends that you think might emerge?

I think the trend of incorporating plants into wellness routines will continue to grow, especially as people look for ways to bring nature into their indoor spaces. I also see more people moving toward rare, unique plants like variegated varieties or harder-to-find species. As for emerging trends, I think we’ll see more eco-conscious plant care—using sustainable materials and practices like self-watering systems or recycled pots.

Your expertise goes beyond just plant care—you’ve developed a brand that resonates with a wide audience. What advice would you give to someone looking to turn their passion into a successful online platform?

My advice is to be authentic. People can tell when you’re being genuine, and that’s what creates real connections. Find a niche you’re passionate about and focus on offering value—whether that’s through education, entertainment, or personal stories. Consistency is key, but so is staying true to yourself. Don’t be afraid to pivot if needed, but always keep your core message intact. Just be yourself and keep showing up, your community will find you!

The UK and USA have different trends in houseplant care and decor. Have you noticed any interesting trends or differences between American and British houseplant enthusiasts?

One of the interesting trends I’ve noticed is that UK plant enthusiasts seem to favour more structured, curated plant arrangements, while in the USA, there’s a big focus on creating “indoor jungles” with plants in every available corner. The UK also seems to be ahead when it comes to eco-friendly plant care practices, like using peat-free soil. It's inspiring to see these differences and how each culture brings its own personality to plant care.

We hope you enjoyed this interview with Kellyn Kennerly! It was fascinating to explore her unique approach to plant care, where nurturing plants intersects with mental well-being and wellness. Whether you're just starting your plant journey or are a seasoned enthusiast, Kellyn's insights offer valuable tips for keeping your plants—and yourself—thriving.

If you want to dive deeper into her expertise, be sure to check out her new book, Happy, Healthy Houseplants, available for pre-order now. It's packed with actionable advice to help you avoid "loving your plants to an early grave" and offers creative ideas for setting up your own indoor oasis.

For more from Kellyn, follow her on Instagram at @easygrowing and be part of her growing community of plant lovers!