In a world increasingly attuned to the benefits of greenery, a surprising number of people are engaging in conversations with their houseplants. A 2022 survey by Trees.com revealed that 48% of respondents admit to talking to their plants, with 21% doing so daily. And this isn’t just a quirky habit — scientists are actively studying how talking to plants may affect both the plants themselves and our own mental well-being.
Why We Talk to Plants
The practice of speaking to plants may offer real psychological benefits. According to the same Trees.com survey, 62% of self-confessed plant talkers believe that chatting with their greenery enhances their mental health. Jo Lambell, founder of Beards and Daisies, explains:
“When people feel lonely, they often connect with non-human things, like plants, by treating them as if they have human traits.”
This kind of interaction—personifying plants or assigning them emotions—can help people feel more grounded, soothed, and connected to the natural world, especially in isolated or indoor environments.
Do Plants Actually Respond?
While plants don’t have nervous systems, some studies suggest they can still respond to auditory stimuli. A study published in the journal Ultrasonics found that exposing Chinese cabbage and cucumber plants to specific sounds, including classical music, led to improved growth. Similarly, the Royal Horticultural Society conducted an experiment where tomato plants grew faster when exposed to human voices—particularly female voices.
While more scientific research is needed, the idea that plants may perceive or react to sound isn’t as far-fetched as it once seemed.
It’s a Cultural Phenomenon
In the UK, a survey by Feather & Black found that millennials are the most likely generation to talk to their plants. Many go further, naming their houseplants after authors, celebrities, or beloved characters—bringing even more personality and emotional connection into the mix.
As Jo Lambell shared,
“Even in our head office, we name the plants or refer to them as ‘he’ or ‘she’ – it just feels natural to us.”
Whether or not the plants “listen,” the act of talking to them seems to help us. It fosters a deeper connection with nature, boosts mood, and reinforces our growing appreciation for the emotional and aesthetic benefits of indoor greenery.
Experts Explain Why Houseplants Are Key to Summer 2025’s Interior Design Trends