Grow Indoor Plants: How mobility challenges led to opening a shop

Thetford plant shop owner Jen Francis shares how mobility challenges inspired a new gardening journey, moving from traditional outdoor gardens to indoor green spaces, and helping others do the same.

“When you think of gardening, you might imagine sprawling outdoor spaces, digging into rich soil, and tending to vibrant flowers or vegetables. But for me, gardening used to mean something quite different. It was an outdoor hobby I cherished, something that brought me immense joy. However, as mobility difficulties began to affect my daily life, I found that maintaining a traditional garden became more and more challenging.

At first, it was the bending, the kneeling, the constant movement to manage plants in the garden beds. What once felt like a therapeutic escape soon turned into a source of frustration. I had to accept that my love for the outdoors and gardening couldn’t always align with the limitations my body was presenting me. It was a tough realisation.

But rather than giving up gardening altogether, I began to look for alternatives—solutions that would allow me to stay connected to nature and keep the joy of nurturing plants alive. That’s when I turned to indoor gardening. The idea of bringing nature inside felt like a perfect solution, offering all the peace and beauty of plants without the physical strain of traditional gardening.

Indoor gardening, I quickly realised, was not only manageable but also deeply rewarding. With the right care and attention, houseplants could thrive in the comfort of my own home, and there were so many varieties to choose from—each with its unique beauty. I began to experiment with different plants, learning what worked best in my space and discovering the therapeutic benefits that come with having greenery indoors. The act of caring for plants became a soothing, mindful practice that I could do at my own pace, without the need for strenuous outdoor labour.

As I gained confidence in my new gardening practice, I saw an opportunity to share this passion with others. I realised that there were many people like me—those who loved the idea of gardening but faced challenges that made traditional gardening difficult. It inspired me to open a plant shop, not just as a business, but as a place where others could find the joy of indoor gardening, regardless of their mobility or physical abilities.

At my shop, I focus on offering a curated selection of houseplants that are not only beautiful but also easy to care for. I believe everyone should have access to the calming effects of plants, so I provide tips and guidance to help my customers create their own indoor green spaces. From low-maintenance plants like snake plants and pothos to succulents and air plants, I make sure there’s something for every home and every skill level.

Indoor gardening has transformed my relationship with plants. It’s become a space where I can connect with nature in a way that suits my lifestyle, and I’ve learned that gardening is less about the physical demands and more about nurturing life in whatever form it takes.

For anyone facing mobility challenges but yearning to bring a bit of greenery into their home, I encourage you to start small. Choose plants that thrive in your environment, make use of easy-to-reach containers, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Gardening doesn’t have to be a physically demanding hobby to be fulfilling—it can be as simple as adding a few plants to your windowsill, and before long, you’ll find that they become a cherished part of your everyday life.

Opening my plant shop was a way for me to share my journey with others. I hope it can be a place where people discover that gardening, in whatever form, can be an inclusive and accessible activity for everyone—no matter their mobility. And through it all, I’m reminded every day that, sometimes, the best things happen when we adapt and grow in new ways.”