Last Updated on June 12, 2022 by Gary Stephen
Why we all need at least one plant in our office? Have you ever wondered what are the benefits of having plants around, in the office, or at home?
Facts about benefits of having plants in the office
Did you know that since the late 1980s, scientists from NASA have conducted almost 200 studies. This is to see whether any household plants could effectively clean the air in an enclosed space? Additionally, out of those who could filter Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), they wanted to find which types of plants are the most effective at doing so.
You could imagine that astronauts have limited capacity to filter and circulate the air for months on end. So, it would be in their interest to test whether plants would make a difference to the overall air quality in the vacuumed living areas.
Even though they found in the NASA studies that air filtration in concealed areas translate exactly the same as filtering living spaces in your house. It is not possible with household clutter, even with open windows, doors! However, keeping houseplants in your home and bedroom area does provide many benefits that most people are yet to appreciate!
Though research on indoor air quality is quite limited, the Australian government recognizes that the average Australian spends 90% of their time indoors. And much of this time is spent at work. Thinking about the benefits of having plants in the office, you might be surprised to learn what some of these could offer you. So let’s take a look at some of the proven reasons you should bring some nature to work.
Other benefits of having plants in our office
Relieve depression and anxiety
Yes, you read that correctly! There is now evidence linking horticultural therapy to lowered symptoms of depression and anxiety. Apart from fewer sick days at work for those who were surrounded by plants for extended periods, indoor plants offer a huge range of advantages that can help ameliorate your mood.
Ease tension and lower stress
The first is one of the most valuable, as mental health is a challenge around the globe. With more plants at work, you will be creating a relaxed ambiance for your working space. By bringing nature closer to you, you will feel more at ease and in turn, less stressed.
Greater attention levels
Being comfortable at work involves functioning in a space typically surrounded by stressful pressures, tasks, and thoughts. Through the introduction of plants and some peaceful nature to your area, some studies have found that individuals experienced enhanced concentration, productivity, and even improved creativity.
Now we know some of the many advantages of getting some plants into our office space, but how do we know which ones to buy and how to take care of them? Worry not, here is what you need to know.
Types of plants to look out for to ensure the benefits in the office
Some amazing plants filter the air very effectively and are known to freshen indoor spaces. For example:
- certain Bamboo palms
- the Boston fern
- the Rubber tree
- the Spider plant
- the Ficus tree
- and the Snake plant.
If you are unsure, you could consider contacting a specialist to assess the best plants for your area, after which they can help you get your plants set up!
You should buy a variety of plants that can perform various filtering tasks, depending on their filtration benefits. The best to keep in mind with anything that has benefits. However, there are certainly some things to be aware of when buying indoor plants.
Some risks to know
It is important. Especially in Australia with so many protected species. So that you don’t end up buying alien plants that are illegal or invasive species. Additionally, it is best to ensure that the plants you buy are not dangerous. Because it can cause risks to human health, pet health, or are otherwise toxic or poisonous in some way. You may not be able to know this fully ahead of time. But be aware that there are plants that are prone to triggering asthma, or have excess pollen.
After you have bought your plants and they’re ready to ‘install’ in your office area, you should consider the interior design of your space. Besides, plan which plants should go in which space. This will greatly be influenced by their sun constraints, about which you should find out in detail upon purchase.
Maintenance routine
When it comes to maintenance, a schedule for caring should be designed. This will include, as mentioned above, the plant’s needs for sun, water, dampness, pest dangers, and harmony with other plants. If you are away from the office, you can pass this information on to someone who can help you keep to your plant’s routine.
Lastly, you must stay alert to any signs of plant pests, mold, or plant infections. If you’re unsure, you can contact a specialist to help you. But, because some of these plant diseases can end up being very dangerous to human health, great caution should be taken in your dealing with potential issues.
A fantastic investment into your mental and physical health, indoor plants can transform the aesthetics and atmosphere of your office space. Of course, some care should be taken when selecting your plants and their positioning in your office area, but this can be done with the assistance of a nursery or horticultural specialist.
