Where ever you are, you’ll likely agree that your environment is very important, perhaps now more than ever. That’s not surprising when you consider that your environment plays a big part in impacting your frame of mind. Being exposed to green natural environments improves mental well-being, reducing stress, increasing positive emotions and cognitive restoration.
The health benefits of green, natural environments may also have an indirect positive impact by encouraging certain behaviours, for example, physical health and longevity, and thereby happiness. A lot of us spend our time indoors so we need to think about how to include some nature into our indoor environments.
One of the easiest ways to add some greenery to your life is with houseplants. We are taking a look at our TOP 5 plants that work just as well in the home and the office.
RHIPSALIS
This looks great hanging up or on a desk or coffee table.
Also known as ‘Mistletoe Cactus’, Rhipsalis has fast-growing bright green tendrils. Originating from the rainforests of central and south America, this plant will add a tropical feel to your home, and as an added benefit, it’s a great air purifier.
Rhipsalis is easy going and needs a light touch on the watering. Don’t over-water and always check soil moisture levels first. The top 2 inches of soil should be dry before any additional water is applied, usually once every 1.5 weeks depending on light and room temperature levels.
FICUS LYRATA
This is a beautifully tall, majestic plant with large oval deep green leaves, also called a Fiddle Leaf Fig.
They only require a moderate amount of attention. Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry out between water applications, and go easy, don’t let the plant to sit in water as they are susceptible to root rot if they stay to wet. Originating from the tropics, misting the new leaves every couple of days will provide a good amount of humidity for this plant to thrive.
MONSTERA DELICIOSA
Monstera originates from the rainforests of Southern Mexico and is most commonly known as a ‘Swiss Cheese Plant’ due to the holes in its distinctive green leaves. This is a favourite with our customers for providing real impact.
They are easy to care for, simply water every week or so allowing the top soil to dry out before watering, and mist regularly to create a humid environment.
CALATHEA MEDALION
Calathea ‘Medallion’ is another stunner. It has large, oval shaped leaves and distinctive green purple and pink variegation. Calathea close up their leaves at night and re-open in the morning.
Calathea is fairly easy to keep, make sure the soil is evenly moist and do not allow to completely dry out, water once a week after checking the moisture levels. The top 1 inch of soil should be dry before adding water and mist leaves once a week.
FICUS BENJAMINA
Ficus Benjaminia is one of over 800 species of Ficus, this evergreen plant is relatively easy to care for if positioned in the right location. Commonly nicknamed ‘Weeping Fig’ for its long drooping branches and clusters of small oval shaped leaves, this plant will add a jungle feel to any home.
Benjaminia needs a little more care. Regular watering is required and again a good rule to follow is to check the top 2 inches of soil before watering. Allow this to dry out between water applications, but do not allow your plant to sit in water as they are susceptible to root rot. Mist once a week with filtered water to replicate a humid environment and do not allow to dry out completely.
We hope we have inspired you to think about adding some plants to your home or office.
