Caring for Indoor Plants

Researching, purchasing, plotting, and caring for plants seems like a lot of work, doesn’t it? Many people are attracted to the idea of getting indoor plants for their home but may balk at the work involved. Others simply argue that they do not have a green thumb. However, not everyone has to have natural plant-cultivating capabilities to grow plants indoors. Caring for indoor plants doesn’t have to be difficult; in fact, some plants are downright easy to look after, making them great additions to your home. Not only do they brighten up a space aesthetically, they also provide various health benefits, too.

Plants Lift Our Spirits

Plants are natural healers, did you know? Researchers in the United Kingdom found that people who live around nature feel much happier than those who don’t. One of the supporting theories for this revolves around the fact that greenery reminds us of open spaces. We tend to feel less boxed in when dreaming of the outside world.

When caring for plants, you also reap the benefits of cleaner air; they naturally release oxygen and take up carbon dioxide. More oxygen means your body works more efficiently. The more oxygenated your brain, the better it will release the right hormones to support your mental well-being!

Plants Help Us Fight Illness

Your immune system is responsible for responding when you are exposed to viruses and bacteria. With a very complex job to do, the immune system can always use a hand. Caring for indoor plants in the home gives the system the help it needs to remain strong. As they scrub the air of toxins, they also help us feel calmer and more relaxed. Since a lot of illnesses are made worse by stress, the calmer you are, the less susceptible you will be to catching the next bug.

Plants Discourage Procrastination

Caring for indoor plants can actually teach us how to be more productive. For starters, caring for even the easiest plant requires routine. The very act of regularly watering your plant teaches your mind to stick to a schedule. If you start your day by checking up on your plant, you may find yourself more likely to stick to other scheduled tasks as well. Second, even business people have noticed a change in their memory retention and concentration at work when plants were in view of their desk.

Convinced yet? Consider adopting one of these little guys below!

Ideal Plants for Beginners:

Golden Pothos

A common houseplant, pathos are known for being exceptionally hardy and difficult to kill. Even if you lack a green thumb, this hardy plant is determined to survive! With its trailing stems, this plant looks pretty hanging from a shelf. Just note that the plant contains compounds toxic to cats and dogs, so if your pets tend to nibble on whatever is around, place it above reach.

How to care: This little guy can thrive in the full sun or bright filtered light. Its soil should be kept moist, so be careful to not overwater.

English Ivy

Ivy is usually an outdoor plant, which is why the English Ivy adds a kind of rustic charm to older buildings and homes. Classically elegant, this plant can be trained into shapes, and with proper care, survive for several years. It is also good for absorbing mold in the air, too.

How to care: This plant enjoys bright light and slightly dry soil, so don’t overwater it! You should also regularly fertilize your English Ivy, about once a month in the spring, summer, and fall (skipping winter as this is the ivy’s dormant period).

Boston Fern

The Boston Fern is admired for its long, graceful fronds and teeny leaves. This plant is also a powerhouse when it comes to purifying the air in your home. They are known for removing compounds like formaldehyde, plastics, and cigarette smoke. They can also be displayed in several ways: on pedestals, in hanging baskets, or on a windowsill.

How to care: As this bushy plant does best in warmer climates, place a humidifier nearby so it doesn’t dry out. Water regularly to keep the soil moist.

Peace Lilly

This plant is renowned for its ability to break down compounds such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene! The Peace Lily has long been a favorite houseplant with its glossy oval leaves and pretty white tips. A tropical plant, it will do well indoors without too much attention.

How to care: This dude does not thrive in direct sunlight, making it a good option for those living in apartments or homes without a lot of windows. Give them evenly moist, well-drained soil and keep the temperature at least 55 degrees.

Dragon Tree

This plant is a gorgeous addition to an indoor space with its green to purple leaf colors. They are listed by NASA as an excellent plant for removing harmful chemicals in the air.

How to care: These are easy to grow indoors as they tolerate low light and have a forgiving route system that can survive without frequent watering. Though they grow best in medium sunlight, they can also survive in lower light situations. They require loose, well-drained potting mix and can be watered every 2 weeks.

Mother-in-Law’s Tongue

This hardy plant is known for its unique abilities to covert poisonous substances into oxygen and decrease the humidity in a room. A desert plant, it readily adapts to the office or living room. In addition, there are some 70 different species of mother-in-law’s tongue, each characterized by different shades of gray-green colored stripes and spotted edges.

How to care: For best growth, keep the tongue in bright, indirect sunlight and water once a month. It is also important to plant it in free-draining soil.

With these tips in mind, take an afternoon this week and adopt one or two of these green friends for your home. Plus, reap the benefits of improved mood and health!