Ever feel instantly calmer after a walk in the park? It's not just your imagination. Nature has a powerful effect on our well-being, and you can bring a piece of that serenity indoors with houseplants!
This month's Healthy Home Habits explores the many benefits of these leafy companions, from boosting your mood to purifying the air you breathe
Why Go Green?
Here's a glimpse of the positive impact houseplants can have:
Improved Mood and Reduced Stress: Studies show plants can decrease stress levels, enhance focus, and even boost productivity.
Better Air Quality: Houseplants act as natural air filters, removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. This can lead to improved sleep and concentration, especially in bedrooms and offices.
Reduced Blood Pressure and Fatigue: Research suggests plants can lower blood pressure and decrease fatigue.
Connection to Nature: Caring for plants fosters a sense of responsibility and connection to nature, promoting mindfulness and reducing anxiety.Habit Stacking
Real vs. Artificial: Weighing the Options
While real plants offer the most health benefits, artificial plants can still be a good option in some situations:
Ease of Care: Artificial plants require minimal maintenance, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Cost-Effectiveness: They're a one-time purchase and won't need repotting or replacing as often as real plants.
Versatility: They can offer the look you desire regardless of light or humidity limitations.
Allergy-Friendly: No need to worry about triggering allergies or pet sensitivities.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences and lifestyle.
Choosing the Perfect Plant for You
The key to success lies in finding plants that suit your space and care routine. Here are some factors to consider:
Light Levels: Different plants thrive in varying degrees of sunlight. Consider the natural light available in your home.
Humidity: Some plants prefer a more humid environment.
Maintenance: Think about how much time and effort you're willing to dedicate to watering, pruning, and fertilizing.
Safety: Be sure to research potential toxicity for children and pets before choosing a plant.
The RHS website offers an excellent guide to choosing plants for different locations in your home. You can also filter plants by light and care needs on the Patch Plants website.
Top Plant Picks for Beginners:
Snake Plant (Mother-in-Law's Tongue): Known for its resilience, this succulent requires infrequent watering.
Spider Plant: Easy to propagate, making it a great choice for sharing with friends and family.
Jade Plant: These plants symbolize good luck and are easy to propagate through cuttings.
Remember, don't be discouraged if a few plants don't make it. Learning from experience is part of the journey!
Plant Care Tips for Success:
Know Your Plant: Each plant has unique watering, pruning, and fertilizing needs. Research your specific plants to ensure proper care.
Less is More: Avoid overwatering! Most plants prefer the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Rainwater Power: If possible, use rainwater for watering. You can collect it in buckets or a water butt.
Drainage Matters: Ensure your pots have drainage holes to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Reminders are Key: Use plant care apps or calendar alerts to avoid forgetting watering schedules.
Fresh Air Flow: Open windows near your plants to help them breathe.
Repotting Time: When roots outgrow their pot, repotting is necessary. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes or on top of the soil.
Dust Busters: Gently dust leaves with a damp cloth or paintbrush to prevent them from being blocked from sunlight and air.
Houseplants are a fantastic way to enhance your home environment and well-being.
Perhaps your next plant purchase will improve your air quality, boost your mood, or simply add a vibrant touch to your space. So, why not give it a try?
Don't forget to check back next month for another edition of Happybeams & Co.'s Healthy Home Habits, where we'll explore a different topic to help you build a toolkit for your overall wellbeing!
Thanks so much for reading,
Jess x