Self-Education in Horticulture

Have you ever wondered how a single pothos plant could change your entire life? Join us in this inspiring episode of "Growing Joy with Plants" as we engage in a heartfelt conversation with Richard, affectionately known as Lord Fierce, the visionary founder of Plant Daddy NYC. We explore the vibrant tapestry of the plant community, recalling our first encounter at PlantCon in New York City and the influential figures who helped shape their passion for plants!

Richard's journey from a luxury gym employee in Los Angeles to a dedicated plant consultant in the bustling streets of New York City is nothing short of remarkable. He shares how his childhood memories of gardening with his mother ignited a lifelong love for plants, leading him to create an urban jungle in his home. As Richard reveals the transformative power of plants, he discusses the pivotal moment when a humble pothos plant sparked his passion and set him on the path to becoming a plant consultant.

Throughout this episode, Richard dives deep into the nuances of plant care, emphasizing the importance of understanding plants not just through academic knowledge but through hands-on experience. He recounts his evolution from a hobbyist to a sought-after plant consultant, detailing the educational journey that took him through self-study and practical experience at a local plant store. With insights on common challenges like dealing with scale insects, getting rid of gnats, and managing humidity for plants, Richard equips you with the tools to tackle plant pests and diseases effectively.

As he shares his wealth of knowledge on watering tips, repotting plants, and propagation techniques, listeners will gain valuable insights into holistic plant care and mindful gardening practices. Richard's passion for joyful living through plant parenthood shines through as he discusses the creativity and resilience required to thrive in the world of plant styling and maintenance. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your journey as a plant parent, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice that can enhance your home-based wellness.

Don't miss out on the chance to learn from Richard's experiences and discover how plants can bring healing in nature to your life. Tune in to this episode for an uplifting exploration of the joys and challenges of being a plant consultant, and let the green journey begin!

In this episode, we learn:

• [03:15] Meet Richard “Lord Fierce,” the NYC plant doctor behind Plant Daddy MD!
• [05:26] Growing up with plants in a Vietnamese immigrant household
• [07:13] How did Richard develop his love for plants?
• [10:18]  What did his plant collection start as, and what has it grown into?
• [12:13] Why he decided to chase “difficult plants”
• [13:35] Reverse-engineering a UC Berkeley syllabus for self-education
• [14:51] Learn how to make plant care foolproof with Espoma Organic’s premium products!
• [17:01] Experience honey with superpowers and save up to 31% plus $25 in free gifts at Manukora!
• [19:02] Why real plant expertise requires dirty hands
• [21:21] When did he start charging for his service?
• [23:03] Building an “ICU” for sick plants behind the scenes
• [24:29] When house calls turned a hobby into paid work
• [26:03] How job loss turned his life around
• [29:16] Learning entrepreneurship from everyday resilience
• [33:04] A day in the life of a NYC plant doctor
• [35:39] How he treats pest infestations for his clients
• [37:49] Corporate installs, repotting, and office plant styling
• [38:43] How he rescued a 14-foot fiddle leaf fig with bonsai techniques
• [40:56] The wildest plant call yet: a “ghost cactus” mystery (exoskeleton of scales)
• [45:08] The unglamorous reality of professional plant care
• [45:32] What’s inside a plant doctor’s kit
• [46:13] The signature Plant Daddy MD look
• [46:31] Where to find Richard, book him, and follow his work

Mentioned in our conversation:

• Growing Joy Episode 250: The Business of Horticulture with Leslie Halleck
• Growing Joy Episode 272: Beneficial Insects For Effortless Houseplant Pest Management with Jamie of DMV Beneficials

Interested in learning how Richard made the career switch to plant doctor?

Check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Richard:

Website
Instagram
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Services

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Manukora

Go to manukora.com/bloom to get up to 31% off the starter kit that includes their 850+ Manukora honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook, PLUS $25 worth of free gifts! 

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants)by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

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