By Jordan Kwong
Everybody loves nature. From national parks to backyard gardens, the natural world draws attention from people all around the world. But what if the outdoors could be brought inside? Well, with the power of houseplants, it can be done! Houseplants are more than just a decor choice; they offer numerous benefits for both our homes and our well-being. Whether someone has a green thumb or is just looking into plants, adding greenery to an indoor space can greatly improve quality of life.
- Natural Aesthetics
The primary appeal for houseplants is, of course, decoration. Many rooms full of beiges and whites can feel sterile and uninviting. Even with just one plant, a room becomes more inviting. Plants instantly bring life and color into any space. Furthermore, their shape softens harsh lines and adds a vibrant touch. With various shapes, sizes, and textures, plants like ferns, succulents, and large leafy options can complement any decor style, bringing a cozy atmosphere with them.
- Improved Air Quality
While it is true that plants have been known to also absorb toxins such as formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene, recent studies have shown that it is unlikely for even a hobbyist’s collection to make any real impact on removing urban pollutants. Needless to say, houseplants still improve air quality in other ways. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants boost oxygen levels indoors. They take in carbon dioxide while releasing excess oxygen. Moreover, houseplants have the potential to increase humidity levels. According to CID Bio-Science, plants release 97-99% of the water they absorb into the air through a process called evapotranspiration. Increased humidity can relieve dry skin and lips, prevent dry throat, and reduce allergies. With more and more people staying indoors for jobs and school, plants remain as a clear benefit for the air quality in indoor environments.
- Mental Health Benefits
The most apparent and immediate mental health benefit from owning house plants is simply the sense of satisfaction. For many, watching a plant thrive gives a rewarding sense of achievement. It’s a small but daily win that brings positivity into people’s routines. Studies have also shown that plants can reduce stress and increase relaxation. In an experiment involving two tasks – transplanting plants and completing a computer based task – participants that interacted with plants showed lower heart rates and blood pressures. Even just looking at greenery has been known to have calming effects, as the brain is able to ground with the natural world. Beyond reducing anxiety, the addition of plants in an indoor space can boost productivity. Studies have demonstrated increased productivity in indoor work environments after the addition of plants. By promoting satisfaction, relaxation, and productivity, indoor plants provide numerous benefits for our mental health.
Where to Start
Plants such as monsteras, peperomias, snake plants, spider plants, and ZZ plants are excellent entry points for experiencing the benefits of houseplants. These species are among the easiest to take care of while being both visually appealing and affordable. A visit to the local garden center is all it takes to pick up a plant to start experiencing the benefits of houseplants. A snippet of the natural world inside the house – what a gift!
