Plant Pets: 27 Cool Houseplants to Grow and Love

Gr 3-6–Introductions by young author Beatrice and another by her coauthor mother express their passion for plants, inviting readers to share their enthusiasm. Indoor plants have been popular for eons—perhaps starting with the bonsai, found in China as early as a thousand years ago, or the hanging gardens of Babylon dating to 600 BCE. Beginning with the benefits of houseplants, called “pet plants,” the authors move into choosing the right plant, difficulty of maintaining different types of plants, care, feeding, the best location for each, and more. And when plants propagate, it’s possible to have a plant party, make plant gifts, even find music that involves plants. Among the recommended playlist is Marvin Gaye’s “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” Photographs and colorful graphics illustrate the easy-to-follow instructions and allow plant identification. This earnest work will be most appreciated by serious plant aficionados or for those starting a houseplant collection. No additional resources are included as back matter.