Bring a touch of nature indoors and enrich your life
Plants are gateways to enhanced well-being, aesthetic delight, and a way of living that resonates with the soul. Get home plants, transform mundane corners into refreshing spaces, and enjoy a host of other benefits.
In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, a touch of nature indoors can be a soothing balm for the soul.
One of the most delightful ways to infuse life and tranquility in one’s living spaces is by incorporating plants into home decor. Beyond mere aesthetics, plants have the remarkable ability to breathe life into our homes, creating a symphony of greenery that resonates with both elegance and simplicity.
Plants are far more than mere plants; they are gateways to a world of enhanced well-being, aesthetic delight, and a way of living that resonates with the soul. Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, plants can transform a home into a mini urban garden.
Health benefits
- Breathe easy: Plants are nature’s silent air purifiers. They absorb the harmful toxins released from furniture and cleaning products and replace them with fresh, life-giving oxygen.
- De-stress and unwind: Lush green plants have a calming effect on the mind, lowering blood pressure and promoting peace.
- Boost your mood and focus: Plants have been shown to enhance creativity, improve concentration, and even boost memory.
- Add a touch of personality: Plants reflect one’s unique personality, making one’s home and space an extension of their inner self.
- Nurture a sense of accomplishment: Watching a tiny sprout transform into a thriving plant is a deeply rewarding experience.
Beyond aesthetics
The beauty of plants goes beyond aesthetics. They breathe life into sterile corners, with their vibrant shades adding pops of colour and texture.
Beyond the known benefits, plants offer a lot more:
- Increased humidity: A houseplant is a sign that you are inhaling fresh. Plants naturally release moisture into the air; this is especially beneficial during dry climates and winter months when the indoor air is drier. Increased humidity improves skin health, prevents respiratory problems, and even reduces airborne germs.
- Improved sleep: The best sleep is a stress-free sleep. Studies show that spending time around plants can improve sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety. Additionally, the natural sounds of plants, like the rustling of leaves, have a calming effect on the mind and the body.
- Enhanced creativity: Creativity spurs when you are around plants. It is likely due to stress reduction and improved focus. Moreover, the natural beauty of plants can inspire new ideas and break through creative blocks.
- Natural pest control: Plants are true soil-mates. Certain plants, like lavender, citronella, and basil, are effective natural pest repellents. Keeping them in your home helps keep pests at bay without the need for harmful chemicals.
Best indoor picks
No longer limited to sunrooms and windowsills, plants are weaving their magic throughout the house, transforming ordinary spaces into green views.
Here are some plant buddies that require minimal fuss, offer maximum aesthetic rewards, and transform your house into a vibrant world:
- Snake plant: The leaves of the most common snake plant are thin and green, with horizontal stripes of silver or grey. This plant thrives in low light conditions and can reach many feet in height. As it looks good, requires low maintenance, and doesn't need much water, the snake plant is often used as house decor.
- ZZ plant: Due to its visually appealing form, interior designers and plant lovers are drawn to the ZZ plant. It is a great addition to any home or business, thanks to its broad, eye-catching, dark green leaves. The ZZ plant does not mind being neglected, can withstand droughts, and may even thrive in poor light.
- Spider plant: The long, flat leaves of the spider plant grow and hang in the shape of a fountain or spider, making them easy to identify. The ideal locations for this houseplant are on a high sill or shelf or in a hanging basket so that its foliage can cascade down. It is an excellent option for any plant enthusiast due to its low maintenance requirements, pet-friendliness, and star-shaped blooms.
- Jade plant: The jade plant is particularly popular as an ornamental house plant because of its small size and tree-like appearance, which is attributed to its thick, wooden branches and oval-shaped leaves. Grown indoors, the plant can reach heights of three feet or more. It has a very long lifespan and is frequently passed down from generation to generation. As the jade plant grows top-heavy and topples over, choose a broad, strong pot that is moderately deep.
- Golden pothos: This plant has trailing vines with vibrant leaves and is perfect for hanging baskets. Pothos, which is commonly called money plant, can live for many years with basic care and is super adaptable, as various light, soil, and moisture conditions suit the plant. Caring for the pothos is simple. This low-maintenance plant generally thrives in bright, indirect light, but it can also do well in low-light conditions.
Placement matters
Empty corners or bare spaces are enhanced with strategically placed greenery, adding visual interest and filling the void. Furthermore, plants contribute to the overall ambience of a room.
Lush greenery in the living area can promote relaxation, while vibrant flowers on a desk can inject a burst of energy. The placement of plants can also subtly communicate personal preferences or interests.
However, it is crucial to consider the lighting requirements of each plant when choosing its placement. Matching its needs to the available natural light ensures optimal growth and contributes to a thriving and aesthetically pleasing decor scheme.
The thoughtful placement of potted plants goes beyond mere decoration; it can significantly enhance your living space’s atmosphere, functionality and personality.
Planters or plant containers serve as essential elements in home decor, offering a stylish and functional way to showcase nature’s beauty. Their strategic placement in homes, offices, living areas, and balconies can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the place but also contribute to a harmonious living environment.
Here are a few places you can look at while placing your planters:
- By a sunny window: Most plants need sunlight; so a windowsill is a great spot for many plants. Just be sure to choose plants suited to the amount of sunlight the window receives.
- On a plant stand: Plant stands elevate your plants and create a focal point, especially if you group several planters. This is a great way to showcase statement plants.
- In a corner: Corners can often feel empty; so placing a plant here can add life and visual interest. Choose a tall plant to fill the space or group several small plants together.
- On a side table or coffee table: A small planter on a side table or coffee table can add a touch of greenery and personality. Choose a plant that is compact and vibrant.
Edited by Swetha Kannan
(Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of YourStory.)