Green life at the office

October 30, 2019


Latina businesswoman working at computer at office desk with potted plants

Plants and workspaces are a good match. The benefits we experience around plants include enhanced self-esteem, reduced stress levels, and feelings of revitalization. Plants can add organic character to an office environment, improve productivity and creativity.

What is horticulture? This word comes from two Latin words which mean “garden” and “culture.” Basically, it’s the area of agriculture involving the science of growing and caring for plants. Horticulture is socially relevant because it improves how we use plants, and that is very important in environmental protection. Indoor plants have also been shown to reduce the symptoms of “sick building syndrome” or SBS.

Office life usually consists of being busy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate a little life into your space. Below are some of the best plants to spruce up your workspace and improve wellness.

The Peace Lily
The peace lily is a large space-filling plant that can also clean the air. It can grow well in low office lighting, so it’s ideal for an office space that lacks windows.

Fittonia
This plant can work well in offices because it thrives in fluorescent light. The oversized inside-out look of the leaves can serve as a focal point and be aesthetically pleasing for the office.

Pothos
Pothos is a flowering plant that can fit on most desktops. It’s very low maintenance and can be left on a desk for lengthy periods without needing much care.

Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreen is a great office plant because it requires very little maintenance. It can also thrive in low light and removes toxins from the air.

It’s not difficult to keep indoor plants happy, but you do need to pay attention to their basic needs. Follow these guidelines to ensure your plants remain healthy and happy.

Your plants need water, light, and warmth to survive. So when you’re off on vacation, don’t forget about your green friends. If you have a plant-savvy co-worker who can come over a couple of times a week while you are away, that’s ideal.
Plants acclimate to different surroundings by changing their leaf orientation and structure. If you can, try not to move them around, as they may not adapt as easily as you think.
Placing a tray underneath the potted plant’s container is the best way to catch excess water and prevent a mess. For most plants, only water when the soil is dry. Use your fingers to easily determine soil moisture levels.

For more guidance on horticulture or groundskeeping, contact Vanguard Resources.