Graphic and story by Ryan Pierce
Houseplants are not only great room decor, they also have many health benefits. Everyone knows plants produce oxygen, but they also rid the air of toxins. In just 24hours, houseplants can remove up to 87% of air toxins, according to research done by NASA. Other studies have proven that plants can improve your mood, reduce stress and increase concentration and productivity by up to 15%. They increase the humidity indoors, which during the winter is very important to combat dry skin and sinus issues. They’re also a great addition of life when everything outside is dead and/or covered in snow or frost.
Houseplants give you some responsibility and structure, which has been great for me during the lockdown. While it doesn’t seem like much, having to open my window each morning and make sure they have enough water has helped me, one, get more Vitamin D and two, actually get out of bed.
If you’re scared to venture into the world of houseplants because you’ve killed every single one you’ve ever had or are scared that you will, just know that I was you only a short time ago. Now, I have eight plants that are all thriving. It’s all about finding which ones will survive with the conditions you put them in and doing a bit of research to find out what each plant likes.
Some easy-care plants that would be great to start out your mini indoor jungle with include:
Monstera Deliciosa aka Swiss Cheese Plant
– Prefers medium to bright indirect light, but can tolerate low light. Water once a week.
– Avoid direct sunlight & overwatering.
Dracaena trifasciata aka Snake Plant
– Prefers bright, indirect light, but can still grow in low-light or shade. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
Ficus Elastica aka Rubber Plant
– Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Allow the top couple inches to dry out in between waterings. Avoid direct sunlight.
