The perks of being a PLANT PARENT
Houseplants don’t just make your home look beautiful, they’re also good for your wellbeing
From graceful palms to magnificent monsteras, there’s no doubt that Aussies love their houseplants. And while a spot of greenery can pretty up your home, there’s plenty of evidence to show that it’s also good for your wellbeing.
Meredith Kirton, a horticultural journalist and curator at Gro Urban Oasis, says she’s not surprised that our affection for houseplants is, well … growing. “As our environments become increasingly artificial, it’s only natural to crave for a more authentic environment,” she explains. “Add to this the fact that they look good and are good for you, and you have a winning formula!”
BOOST YOUR MOOD
We’ve known for years that gardening is a proven mood booster, but you don’t need a backyard to get the benefits. “Caring for something as simple as a ‘plant pet’ gives you a sense of satisfaction and nurturing that’s obvious after a day in the garden, but the effect is achieved in ‘microdoses’ with indoor plants,” Kirton says. “It’s obviously no coincidence some plants have names such as peace lily and happy plants … it looks like they are telling us something!”
FRESHEN THE AIR
Plants aren’t just pretty to look at. In one study, NASA tested twelve different houseplants to find out if they could improve air quality and remove toxic trace chemicals left by carpets, paint and modern furnishings. “Of the dozen plants NASA tested, all cleaned the air,” says Kirton. “These included mother-in-law’s tongue, spider plant, devil’s ivy, Boston ferns, dracaenas, philodendrons and the peace lily. Luckily all of these options are really easy to grow at home, too.”
IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH
Whether the health benefits that you’re looking for are mental or physical, a plant could be just what the doctor ordered. “Apart from cleaning the air, indoor plants can also help clear your head,” Kirton reveals. “Green spaces have a positive effect on mental health, and being exposed to vegetation lowers your risk of respiratory disease and cancer – and even indoor plants work here.”
WORK BETTER
If you’ve made a recent return to the office, consider sprucing up your desk with a pot plant or two! “Amazingly, indoor plants also improve our alertness, concentration and communication skills, so it makes sense to add them to your workspace as well,” Kirton says.