Speaker

The advent of the internet and social media has made instant celebrities of some plants. Take the example of a plant like Philodendron Monstera. There has been debate and speculation on why the plant naturally has holes in its foliage like the holes in a slice of swiss cheese. Some have suggested that Monsteras native to tropical regions evolve and develop holes in their leaves to resist the strong winds of hurricanes. Plants like Strelitzia better known as Bird of Paradise split their leaves to allow wind through as well. Others have suggested the Philodendron as it  gains height has the holes to better allow water to come in contact with their roots. You might say the “hole theories” have holes in them. Wouldn’t it be true then that all hurricane region tropical plants would adapt and have holes in them? If the rainwater theory held water wouldn’t more plants do that? And if the plant is native to tropical rainforests where it rains a lot would it really be necessary to be holey? There must be a better explanation for the “do what you need to do” adaptation with these plants. We need a better explanation than healthy plants “shot” full of holes look interesting and make for a great social media post.

 The slits or holes in the leaves is called fenestration. It may be the Philodendron monstera as an understory plant has adapted to maximize available light and share with others. Monstera vine up trees growing from the forest floor in an epiphytic way. Light can be at a premium with the plant trying to capture sunlight that makes it through the forest canopy. A whole leaf and a fenestrated leaf can individually perform the same but the “holey” leaf is able to share light with those below. The unique leaf structure and plant makes a sacrifice for the good of all, namely light for those below to survive. They understand that they and the understory plants are in this together. I would like to speak to your group or at your event because we are all in this together. 

Speeches for Groups or Events:

• I Just Wet My Plants:
  A lighthearted look at the world of gardening and its interaction with human nature. How we relate to our daily landscape of life.
• Operation Rumination:
  A look at selfless service and how with passion we can make barriers fall. The difference between healthy and unhealthy rumination.
• I Need To Change My Plants:
  Uplifting and motivational. How throughout history Plants have saved the day!

I would love to consider speaking to your group, organization or business.

Contact Rick to speak to your organization