My first impressions of Thailand are that it is extremely gorgeous and lush with plants. As someone who loves plants and works at a plant shop, I have a strong appreciation for the wide variety of plants that live and thrive in Thailand. The hot, humid, rainy weather allows many varieties of plants to thrive all year. The plants here grow wildly and reach lushness and sizes I have not seen in Minnesota. I really appreciate how most shops and households have plants outside. Whether it be a decorative plant, or herbs, veggies, or fruit trees. The cultivation, use and distribution of plants or crops are often a way of life and the source of income for many people living here in Thailand. 

I noticed many plants that I recognize that we sell at the Highland Nursery as house plants. Unfortunately due to the cold climate, the plants that live year-round in Thailand can only be kept as houseplants, or used as annuals (plants that do not survive the winter). In my opinion, annuals can be expensive and somewhat wasteful as people buy them knowing they will not survive the winter. Whereas in Thailand, these houseplants and what we know in Minnesota as annuals can live for many many years and be propagated to create new plants as well. 

I have also been so impressed and astonished by the sheer number of fruit trees along the streets and also on residential properties. So far,  I have seen mango trees, jackfruit trees, lychee tress, tamarind trees, pomegranate trees, banana plants. Many families can use the fruit they grow to eat and to sell. Again, in Minnesota, none of these trees would be able to survive the winter climate. Unfortunately one of the only fruit trees that can thrive throughout the winter is the apple tree. One day, I hope to live in a climate where I can grow many fruit trees and houseplants as outdoor plants, all year long.