Check the Roots, Perhaps?

I’ve always loved the idea of being a plant mom. Visiting a nursery, experiencing plant-child love at first sight, naming it Albert, prepping the perfect nook at home with adequate sunlight, and even learning what music Albert resonates with. Then there’s the joy of photographing Albert, with special attention to his best angles, of course, and bragging to others about how much he and his plant brothers and sisters add to the space. Only one word comes to mind for this entire process: wholesome. While I am in no way speaking from personal experience (I own the kind of ‘plants’ that require dusting only), I live vicariously through my dedicated plant-parent friends. When asked about the keys to plant care, two points stuck out most: the health of its roots and the plant’s environment. Follow this train of thought …

Let’s take it back to the very beginning. Before any sign of its existence, a plant must be anchored by an extensive root system as brought about by its seed. The seed itself is the true life source. As it’s given water, the food stored within the seed is actually converted into energy in the form of enzymes, and these enzymes are what send out the plant’s roots. As the roots grow deeper, the well-awaited sprouting stage occurs, and there are finally signs of life above the soil. As the sprout matures into a young plant, its overseer must pay careful attention to its development. Are its leaves maintaining their natural color? Do they assume a strong, perky appearance or are there signs of wilting?

If inconsistencies occur during the plant’s development, it is a tell-tale sign that something is not only off with its foundation, but also its environment. A plant is only as healthy as its roots, and its roots only as healthy as its soil. Is the soil surrounding the roots too sandy? Does it contain too much clay, depriving the anchorage of sufficient moisture? Furthermore, roots need room to spread. If your potted plant seems to be stunted by its pot size, it may be time to upsize; that way, the overall health of the plant’s roots is revealed and the plant is given more room to grow. In addition to the root’s environment, is the plant itself receiving adequate sunlight?

And so I pose these very questions to you, dear reader. What is the status of your growth, lately? What kind of seeds have you been planting and watching come to life? We know that a well-watered, well-fed seed will produce abundant growth, but be reminded that there are two sides to this growth. If in your own life, you have been planting, watering, and feeding potentially harmful seeds, even those will grow in abundance. A seed has no foresight into its future fruit; it only knows to grow once given proper attention. Likewise, in whom or what are you rooted? Do your roots find a stable home in the character and light of God, or do they quickly inhabit the nearest, most convenient soil depending on the situation?

I encourage you, dear reader, to take a step back and examine your environment. Review your habits and pay close attention to the type of growth you’re experiencing in your life, whether progressive or detrimental. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you the soul-care necessary to develop the right seeds with the proper environment, and for the wisdom to recognize its killers. Take the time to understand what it looks like to be rooted in your Creator. After all, if your root system is in danger, what makes you think your fruit is safe?