Plants need three things to thrive: light, love, and a generous bank account to afford potting soil and water. In this modern world where avocado toast costs more than a burger, fries, and a shake, you might think that potting soil and water are affordable luxuries. Around Winterpast, that isn’t the case. Our water bill costs more than air conditioning in August.
Potting soil, which is essentially dirt, is the humble hero of every gardening enthusiast’s dream. Yet, it comes with a price tag that suggests it’s packed with rare minerals mined on the moon. Last week, we popped into Lowe’s feeling optimistic, only to find that the “organic” mix is twice the price it was last year. Why? Well, because it’s special. They say it’s enriched with nutrients and promises to make your garden into a jungle. Indeed, the “Boost” we’ve been using does tremendous things for budding plants.
The truth of the matter is, if you want your plants to thrive, you’re going to have to fork over $$$ for what feels like glorified sand. Be sure to buy the best ingredients you can afford to have the best outcome. Soil matters. These days, plain old dirt won’t do.
Water is the universal life force and drink of champions. Growing up, I used to think water was free. How naive I was to believe that. Water is “free” in the sense that it falls from the, sky and fills the Truckee River. After that, it transforms into liquid gold. There’s an interesting pattern here on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada. Since we turned the water back on after the winter freezes, our water bill has started to look like a ransom note. Because of this, we’ve decided buying broccolli or cabbage makes more sense than wasting the water. How did this happen?
Our water must be laced with gold. It sure feels like it. We’re not trying to fill an Olympic swimming pool. I’m just giving our poor roses a little drink. But alas, every drop that falls into plants sendsthe water meter into a frenzy. Our yard is beautiful, but the bank account is a bit parched. Maybe next time, we’ll just give the plants a motivational speech instead of water. “Listen, Peonys, I know times are tough, but you’ve got this.”
Potting soil and water, in the grand scheme of things, are just two small expenses on the long list of things you’ll throw money at in the name of self-care. But as you water your plants and add another bag of fancy dirt to your cart, just remember: you’re not alone. Every plant enthusiast is quietly wondering why their houseplants are now so much more expensive than last year.
So, the next time you’re holding a bag of potting soil in your hand and questioning the price, just remind yourself: this is what it takes to create your own little paradise. If nothing else, remember that gardening is just a little bit dirtier—and a lot more expensive—than we thought.
