I have always been fascinated by indoor plants. My love of plants comes from my mother and brothers’ collections. They had potted plants that almost rivaled their vinyl records! I enjoy having potted plants at home. Houseplants have many benefits. They serve multiple purposes that justify the time and effort to keep them healthy. I will discuss those benefits in this blog and explain my love for plants!
Introducing your indoor greenery
There are many reasons why I love my plants, including their ability to thrive indoors. These plants, and others, provide a range of benefits for health and productivity. For instance, they can reduce stress or promote a good night’s sleep. While not all indoor greenery is right for everyone or every living space, you can find something that fits your needs! We will be sharing tips and tricks for properly caring for plants while making your home healthier.
Air Purification
According to NASA, some houseplants can help improve indoor air quality and purify your home. They filter toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene. This benefit is due to both natural processes (phytoremediation) and their capacity for absorbing pollutants. Green plants produce oxygen that helps keep us alive and healthy. Though plants release oxygen by breathing in carbon dioxide and releasing water vapor (both of which are good things), they also release CO₂ day and night. Importantly, because they take in more CO2 than they emit, they are still beneficial to have around.
How many plants do you need?
When choosing several plants, consider whether you’re planning to enjoy their benefits personally or as part of your work. For example, if you want to reap some good air from houseplants and reduce stress levels, that might mean eight plants total: four for yourself and four for your co-workers. If you’re a florist or run an interior design business, though, that same number might apply to just one room in your home—you could have dozens more inside. Use your financial resources wisely (do not, like I first did, overbuy!). Be realistic about how much space is available in your home. Remember, there are plenty of small-space houseplants that will thrive on little light and attention!
Watering indoor plants in winter
Indoor plants not only bring color and life to a home or office, but they can also reduce indoor air pollution. They do so by removing pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. When you bring indoor plants into your home, pay attention to how much light they receive. While it may seem that plants need more sunlight in winter, when days are shorter and darker, most green-foliage houseplants will survive better with a little less sun. They need, of course, some water, especially less in winter. How do you know if your plant needs watering? In general, if your plant is healthy, its leaves should be full and plump. Its soil should feel moist. If there’s yellowing on any leaves and they feel dry to the touch, that means they need watering more often (not true for cacti)! Also watch for moldy spots. If you see black spots, it’s likely mold, and that can spread quickly. But if it looks like these simple tips aren’t enough to help keep your indoor greenery alive through winter, consider repotting them before Christmas. This ensures they have new soil with excellent drainage come springtime!
When bringing plants indoors during the winter months, use clean pots: Always wash pots thoroughly before using them for new plants!
Tips on caring for your indoor greenery
Caring for your indoor greenery isn’t hard, but it does require a bit of effort. Here are seven tips for caring for indoor plants in your home or office: 1. Keep plants away from direct sunlight – Natural light from outdoors can be too bright (south-facing) and hot for most indoor plants, except for many cacti. Exposing indoor plants to too much light might cause leaves to wilt or dry out, leading to browning or death. If you have an east-facing window (ideal for plants), this position will benefit from the morning sun when the rays are not quite as strong. East windows are often beneficial for plants. 2. Make sure soil drains well—avoid using pots with drainage holes that allow water to pool at the bottom—and keep water moving. 3. Keep pets away. 4. Water plants well. Take care not to overwater—underwater is better if unsure.
Fiddle-Leaf Fig or Weeping Fig: Which Do You Choose?
While fiddle leaf fig and weeping fig are two terms often used interchangeably, they actually refer to different varieties. The fiddle-leaf fig is an evergreen tree native to India, while the weeping fig is a type of banyan tree. It can also be found in tropical regions like Africa. Both trees have leaves that resemble violin strings (hence their name), but only weeping figs possess roots that grow along branches rather than into soil. Although both types of plants require special care, it’s important to note their differences before making your purchase. If you want something easy to maintain or don’t have room for a large plant, go with a fiddle leaf; if you’re looking for something larger or more exotic-looking, opt for a weeping fig instead.
Flowering Houseplants
These kinds of plants (flowering houseplants) help purify indoor air by absorbing toxins, such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. Most common flowering houseplants are easy to grow indoors year-round—just add a little bit of sunlight each day. Most flowering houseplants need indirect light from an east- or west-facing window. Avoid harsh southern sunlight, which will scorch your indoor greenery.
Orchids as Houseplants
If you’re looking for a plant that is easy to care for and produces beautiful results, consider adding an orchid to your collection. Orchids can be placed in low-light areas. They will thrive without being watered as frequently as other houseplants. For best results, keep orchids on a table near a window (or even outside) where they can receive partial sun each day. If you are interested in orchids but don’t know where to start, ask friends with orchids if they would be willing to share some tips with you! Furthermore, read guides on how to care for common houseplants and orchids so you have a good foundation.
References:
- 5 Benefits of Having Indoor Plants – American Forests
URL: https://www.americanforests.org/article/5-benefits-of-having-indoor-plants/
Description: This article explains how indoor plants enhance our living spaces in multiple ways. They do so not only aesthetically but also by improving air quality. They help reduce stress. Additionally, they boost overall health. It provides a compelling overview based on expert insights and scientific findings. - 10 Reasons Why You Should Get Indoor Plants: Health Benefits & More – Tribu News Wired
URL: https://www.tribunewired.com/2024/03/15/benefits-of-indoor-plants-for-home/
Description: Offering a comprehensive look at the multiple benefits of indoor plants. This resource discusses how greenery can boost mental health. It purifies indoor air and even enhances your overall quality of life. It makes a strong case for inviting nature into your home. - 20 Proven Health and Well-Being Benefits of Indoor Plants – Gardening Step by Step
URL: https://gardeningstepbystep.com/benefits-of-indoor-plants/
Description: This reference explores scientific research supporting the multitude of benefits of indoor plants. It details how plants contribute to a healthier living environment by reducing stress, increasing productivity, and promoting cleaner air.
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