People are increasingly turning to plants to decorate their spaces. But what is driving this sudden obsession with indoor plants? The answer is simple; the benefits of houseplants go beyond just adding a pop of freshness to a space – they offer a variety of physical and psychological benefits, as well. If you’re planning to integrate houseplants into your decoration strategy, here are some convincing reasons to go ahead.
Houseplants Boost Air Quality
Houseplants are great at eliminating toxins from the air and consequently boosting air quality. Many household items such as carpet, toys, and paints contain chemical compounds that evaporate and reduce air quality, putting inhabitants at serious health risks. These chemical compounds are known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and include acetone, benzene, formaldehyde, and ethanol. Indoor plants can purify the air inside our houses by getting rid of these harmful chemicals. In fact, numerous NASA’s studies show that plants can eliminate more than 80 percent of VOCs on a daily basis. For effective air purification, make sure every 100 square feet has one huge plant or at least two smaller plants. Also, invest in quality LED grow lights to give your houseplants the right amount of light they need to stay healthy and continuously growing. You can also make use of online resources like Air Plant Expert to learn more about indoor plants and their qualities so that, if you are looking for certain results, you can choose the most suitable plants to help you achieve these.
They Lower Background Noise
On top of purifying indoor air, plants play an important role in noise reduction, as well. If your home is located in a noisy neighborhood or adjacent to a busy road, keeping houseplants can make a huge difference. For effective noise reduction, consider increasing the number of plants in your house, especially huge ones with big leaves. The goal here is to increase the surface area for sound absorption.
They Improve Our Mental Health
If you think plant therapy is just a catchphrase people use to sound cool, then you’re wrong. In fact, several studies have revealed that the presence of plants in our lives can cause a therapeutic effect and result in feelings of tranquility and less stress. Active interaction with houseplants, including touching and smelling, can lower feelings of solitude and depression and inspire a sense of achievement and purpose. The potting soil itself also helps you manage your everyday stress and anxiety. The reason is this: the soil consists of microorganisms known as outdoorphins that serve as natural antidepressants.
They Speed up Healing
Spending time in places with many plants can help you relax and recover quickly from injuries. We are genetically predisposed to find plants and other nature elements interesting. This means that awe-inspiring nature scenes within your home can help distract you from pain and distress. In fact, a study by Kansa State University suggests that air plants and potted plants can be an effective and affordable noninvasive complementary medicine when used along with standard surgical procedures. Other studies recommend using horticulture therapy in health facilities to fast-track healing.
They Boost Cognitive Abilities
Texas A&M University research shows that working in a workspace that has lots of indoor plants and flowers can significantly enhance your creativity and ability to solve problems. Likewise, UK-based Exeter University research established that potted plants in the workplace increase focus, productivity, and improve employee overall health by 47 percent. Always being close to plants can improve memory retention by about 20 percent. So it’s obvious that decorating your office with green indoor plants can motivate you to complete more tasks, improve your performance, and achieve your goals.
They Function as Natural Humidifier
Through a process known as transpiration, plants discharge moisture from their leaves. During winter, the air feels dry and warm due to the added humidity. Placing a couple of Boston Ferns around your house can be a great solution. But if you’ve children or pets, do your homework before introducing any plants to your space. Don’t keep toxic houseplants or those with spines. Above all, ensure your plants are getting adequate amounts of light by installing LED grow lights.
They are an Excellent Home Decoration Option
Houseplants look lovely and are a cost-friendly home decoration option. They add natural character to any room. They make virtually any space in your home seem larger, warmer, and more appealing. Most importantly, there are unlimited interior design possibilities as far as using houseplants for home decoration is involved.
Final Thoughts
Potted plants are a great option if you want to spruce up the interiors of any space on a budget. Investing in greens can improve your overall health, as well. A large amount of scientific evidence shows that spending time around indoor plants can ward off stress, boost mood and enhance cognitive abilities, and a variety of other health benefits.
