For the plant lovers: Vibrant Plant Lady

by JR Valrey

Plants are extremely important to our environment because they breathe in carbon dioxide and release oxygen that allows animals and humans to breathe. Plants are also used by humans for creating building materials in some places, as well as plants are a regular part of the human diet.

In the world of today, Plant Mama aka Inayah Baqee is taking it upon herself to educate people on how to identify plants, buy plants, repot and more. In capitalism, where your value is calculated by what you own, accumulating plants is way better for the mind and the environment than accumulating corporate-made items that we are conditioned to believe we need. Many studies have shown that just by having plants around, it lowers stress and cortisol levels in human beings across the board. For y’all that don’t know, I want to introduce you to our own local community horticulturalist Vibrant Plant Mama.

JR Valrey: When did you get into raising plants? Who inspired it?

Inayah Baaqee: My mom has a green thumb, so I’ve grown up with plants in the home. My father and grandmothers have also decorated their homes with plants. So I’ve always been around them and always had a plant or two of my own since college. When I moved into my own apartment after college, my houseplant collection grew to about 30 plants since I had more space (which was a lot for me at the time). But I’ve also killed about that many too (or more)! lol

After I had my daughter almost two years ago, I experienced severe postpartum anxiety, which was exacerbated by a colic and high needs baby. I was stuck at home with my baby, overwhelmed and overstimulated most of the time and my plants kept me busy and grounded. Now I’ve grown my plant collection to 100+.

JR Valrey: What does “Vibrant Plant Mama” mean?

Inayah Baqee: I describe my personality as vibrant and energetic. My spirit color is also orange, which is vibrant. Plant mama in the name is a double entendre. I’m plant mama and also a human mama too. Motherhood is a huge part of my identity now and really drives my plant hobby.

JR Valrey: What is the Vibrant Plant Mama brand about? What is the philosophy behind it? What do y’all offer?

Inayah Baqee: For now, I’m carving out a space on the internet for people like me. Mamas, plant mamas, sober women, introverts, postpartum mamas etc. I post content on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok so I’m accessible all over.

As I grow this brand, my vision is to continue plant education, both virtually and in-person. I see myself doing plant consulting for businesses and orgs and live demonstrations.

Ultimately representing Black women in the plant community and demystifying plant collecting.

JR Valrey: Can you talk about your Vibrant Plant Mama tutorial videos on IG? Can you tell people what you do?

Inayah Baqee: Online I document most of my life with my plants, repotting plants, purchasing plants, styling plants etc.

I stay transparent to show that while some would say that I am an expert, I acknowledge that I am still a learner and make mistakes too.

JR Valrey: Why is being a horticulturalist a very important part of your life? What do plants mean to you?

Inayah Baqee: Plants represent life and bring energy. They are the easiest way to elevate a living space. They just feel good to have around. This journey also symbolizes my transformation into motherhood, sobriety, and overcoming postpartum anxiety, which is all so important to me.

JR Valrey: Do you have any events or public presentations coming up?

Inayah Baaqee: I wish! But not yet. I will be sharing a video series on all platforms showcasing each of my plants along with care tips and education.

JR Valrey: How could people stay in touch with you?

Inayah Baqee: I am on all platforms (Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube) as @vibrantplantmama.

I post four or five times per week on Instagram and TikTok and I post twice weekly on my YouTube channel. YouTube is where I get a little more intimate since it’s long form.

JR Valrey is Editor in Chief of the San Francisco Bay View and can be reached at: [email protected].

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Source: https://sfbayview.com/2026/11/for-the-plant-lovers-vibrant-plant-lady/