Why houseplants are becoming the newest online trend and what benefits they could bring to your home. 

Over recent years indoor gardening has experienced a surge in popularity. This has been fuelled by plant focused accounts trending on Instagram, as well as an increase in plant subscription services and plant-based podcasts/apps available to consumers.  

Not only do houseplants improve the appearance of a space, but studies indicate that they also help to eliminate air pollutants, increase creative output and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.  

The percentage of UK adults who own a garden has fallen by 3% since 2000, and with renting becoming more popular, less people are investing time and money in their green spaces. Instead the hobby is being brought indoors, with 52% of homeowners now using houseplants to counter pollution. 

Here are some of the things to consider before buying a new plant for your home. 

 

The physical & psychological benefits of indoor plants 

 Indoor plants offer two potential benefits for us, improved physical health and improved mental well-being.  

The physical benefits of houseplants can include: 

  • Reduced blood pressure 
  • Reduced fatigue and headaches 
  • Reduced pain 

 The psychological benefits of houseplants can include: 

  • Reduced stress and anxiety levels 
  • Improved attention span 
  • Increased productivity 
  • Mood improvement 
  • Increased reaction speeds 
  • Increased pain tolerance  

Choosing a species with air cleansing properties 

Pollution levels can often be higher indoors than outdoors. This is due to the fact that indoor air represents a mix of outdoor-derived compounds (carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides and carbon dioxide particulates) as well as indoor-derived contaminants, mainly Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs are a large group of substances which are emitted from cleaning products, paints, furnishings etc. that can cause adverse health effects in humans.  

If you are looking to purchase houseplants that have air cleansing properties, here are some of the species known to be most effective: 

  • Boston fern
  • Rubber tree 
  • Bamboo palms 
  • Ficus tree 
  • Areca 
  • Aloe vera 
  • Spider Plant

As well as being attractive in appearance, these species are usually easy to maintain and inexpensive to purchase. They are also able to withstand the typical environmental conditions found indoors, making them great choices. Though every plant on our list falls into the easy-care category, aloe vera plants are widely considered the most indestructible and readily-available plants on the market. They require very little water and enjoy low-light conditions, making them a good option for most environments. Spider plants are similarly hardy, but prefer bright light. 

 Image Source: Unsplash – Annie Spratt 

 Caring for your plants 

Care will differ depending on the species of your plant. The majority of indoor plants will do well in indirect sunlight but it is important to familiarise yourself with the specific needs of your plants and adjust care accordingly. 

The main things three things to be considered when looking at a plants needs are light, humidity and temperature: 

  • Light: Domestic lighting doesn't provide the same light levels needed for plant growth – natural light is by far the best for growing. Areas of your home with full natural sunlight (such as windows, patio doors skylights etc.) are great for growing during winter but can cause scorching and discolouration during hot summer months. Some indoor plants prefer 'dark locations' - shady areas set away from windows/light spots. 

 

  • Humidity: Certain plants love humidity whereas other species are suited to drier climates. The bathroom or kitchen will often be the most humid room in a house whereas living rooms and bedrooms tend to be drier, especially if using central heating. 

 

  • Temperature: Room temperature varies from season to season. It is a good idea to move your plants around during the year in order to make the most of the available light and heat. Be wary of leaving plants in draughty areas of the home (such as hallways) as this can cause damage to your plants. 

Dealing with pest infestations 

 Houseplants can attract insects, moulds and various other pests. By following these simple steps you can avoid unwanted infestations: 

  • Avoid using soil from your garden when repotting houseplants.  
  • Check leaves for pest signs – holes, eggs webbing, leaf damage. 
  • Pay attention to the watering needs of each species – overwatering can lead to fungus and mould growth. 

 Image Source: Unsplash – Annie Spratt 

Choosing indoor plant varieties that are safe for children and pets 

Before bringing a new plant into your home it is important to ensure that it safe (non-toxic) by checking the species using a reliable source. It is always good practice to avoid leaving pruning's or uprooted plants in reach. Always check plant labels for toxicity warnings and teach children not to play with or eat growing plants.  

The RHS offer more information on potentially harmful plants and have a useful 'Find a Plant' tool: 

https://www.rhs.org.uk/prevention-protection/potentially-harmful-garden-plants 

Conclusion 

As you can see, having plants in your home can positively impact your mental and physical health, as well as improve the air quality in your living space.

During July 2022 Airsat will be running a competition in collaboration with a fabulous local plant shop to offer you the chance to win a new houseplant for your home. Stay tuned for more information!

 

Title Image Source: Unsplash - Vadim Kaipov