Tell me about a time a plant didn't survive in your care.

B Natural answer

A few years ago, I bought a fern for my apartment because I wanted something green in the room. I kept it near a bright window, thinking that would help it grow, but the sunlight was actually too harsh. The leaves started turning brown at the edges, and I watered it more, which did not help. After reading a bit, I learned it needed indirect light and a more stable routine. By then, the plant was already in bad shape, so it never recovered. Now I check care instructions before I bring a plant home.

Key phrases in this answer

• bright window — a window with a lot of light coming through“The plant looked good near a bright window.”
• indirect light — light that is not direct sunlight“This plant grows best in indirect light.”
• stable routine — a consistent, regular pattern of care“The plant did better once I gave it a stable routine.”
• forgot to water it — did not give the plant water on time“I forgot to water it for a few days, and the soil dried out.”
• regular watering — watering a plant on a steady schedule“This herb needs regular watering to stay healthy.”
• overwatered it — gave it too much water“I overwatered it, and the roots started to rot.”