Growing indoor plants helps retiree cope with home quarantine

Many do attribute that growing plants gives a lot of benefits for the mind, body, and most especially the soul.

In fact, news reports said that it has become an even more popular activity at this time as people look for ways to relieve themselves of stress and anxiety brought about by the coronavirus situation.

Fortunately, for retired banker Catherine Gutierrez and her husband, Dennis, they have their indoor plants to keep themselves busy with while in quarantine.

“We started growing plants when we moved in here at Zinnia Towers. We started with a few plants, classic cactus plants to be specific," explained Catherine, a resident of DMCI Homes’ Zinnia Towers community in Balintawak, Quezon City. 

"Then I got interested in different types of cacti that have flowers etc. and then we put decors on them,” said the 58-year-old mother of two.

For starters, Catherine said the Dangwa Flower Market in Manila is a great resource when one is looking for inexpensive cacti and succulents. 

“We usually buy plants in Dangwa, Manila. We buy one to two plants every time we visit,” she continued.

Having grown houseplants for some time now, Catherine attested to their numerous health benefits. 

“Indoor plants not only beautify your home. They also help ease stress and anxiety especially if you see the growth and development of the plants,” she pointed out.

Her love for houseplants has also helped her cultivate friendships in the Zinnia Towers community. 

"One of my friends who is also a unit owner gave me a rack to place my plants," Catherine shared. 

Being able to share her passion with like-minded friends makes retirement life all the more fun and enjoyable according to Catherine.

As a houseplant enthusiast, she is also thankful to have found a home featuring lush gardens and landscaped atriums. 

“Living here in Zinnia Towers makes me and my husband happy. We did not only find a good place to stay but we also met neighbors who we now consider as friends and family,” Catherine beamed.

*Consult your Property Management Office first for specific planting/gardening guidelines for your community.