Martha Stewart Reveals the One Thing She Will Always Splurge on — Which She Says Gives Her ‘More Joy Than Anything’

Martha Stewart, the renowned lifestyle mogul, recently engaged in an enlightening discussion with Richard Christiansen, the creator of Flamingo Estate, at a 92NY event. This gathering took place on Friday, 18 September, where the two delved into Christiansen’s latest book, *Flamingo Estate Pleasure Principles: An Almanac from the Garden*.

During the conversation, Stewart, now 85, shared her passion for gardening and revealed her one indulgence: plants. With characteristic candour, she recounted how her business manager often presents her with bills associated with her greenery. “What’s this for?” he might ask, only to discover it’s for yet another tree or plant. “That gives me more joy than anything,” she remarked, highlighting her unwavering love for cultivating her garden.

Christiansen echoed Stewart’s sentiments, confessing that the only gifts he desires from friends and family on birthdays or holidays are plants. “Every time I see the plants that people have given me, it makes me think of you,” he told Stewart. This fond appreciation for plants showcases a shared belief that giving greenery as a gift is amongst the most thoughtful gestures.

Stewart’s experience in gardening has not been without its challenges, and she candidly acknowledged her own past mistakes. To aspiring gardeners, she offered sound advice: “Start small. Do your research. Don’t worry about mistakes because you’re gonna make plenty of mistakes.” She encouraged enthusiasts to add something they genuinely love to their gardens and to embrace the joy of nurturing it.

This year, Stewart celebrated a remarkable harvest from her gardens, including a bumper crop of artichokes and an abundance of berries, such as golden and purple raspberries, as well as currants. This success showcases her dedication to gardening and her ongoing learning throughout her horticultural journey.

Reflecting on her familial roots, Stewart credited her father for instilling in her a love for gardening. The family’s tradition of cultivating a victory garden during World War II played a pivotal role in shaping her green thumb. Today, she observes a growing interest in gardening among the wider public, a trend she attributes to a collective desire for wellbeing. “We want to eat well,” she noted, recognising the shift towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Stewart emphasised the connection between gardening and wellbeing, stating, “There’s this whole new interest in longevity and in aging successfully and gracefully. It has to do with your diet a tremendous amount and, if you grow your own stuff and know what you’re eating, it helps a lot with your sense of wellbeing.” Her insights resonate with many who are increasingly leaning towards sustainable and health-focused living.

At her sprawling 63-acre estate in Maine, Stewart refers to her expansive garden as a “love garden.” She expressed her deep affection for gardening, remarking that she dedicates a portion of each day to tending to her plants. “It’s an incredible feeling,” she said, underscoring the joy she derives from her green pursuits.

As society continues to embrace gardening and sustainable practices, Stewart remains a leading figure in promoting the benefits of cultivating one’s own food. Her passion and expertise encourage both novices and seasoned gardeners to engage with nature, thereby enhancing their quality of life. This recent event at 92NY served not only as a platform for discussion about gardening principles but also as a celebration of the vast joys that come from nurturing one’s own piece of the earth.