Work from office? Suggestions on indoor plants to increase productivity
Indoor plants not only have a positive effect on a person's physical and mental health, as well as are a great addition to the interior, but also increase work productivity by 15%, according to a study* conducted by the University of Exeter. Although we are accustomed to such plants pleasing our eyes when we return home, houseplants are becoming an integral part of the work environment. Now that the "lockdown" is over and we can return to the office, it's time to add some greenery to your workplace to please both your eyes and your hard-working soul. That is why Riga's greenest office complex VERDE shares some tips - what indoor plants to choose to make the work area calming, relaxing and productive even for people without "green fingers"?
Why have houseplants in the workplace?
Plants not only produce oxygen and purify the air, but the moisture that evaporates from their leaves improves the indoor microclimate, which is especially important during the heating season. In turn, the green color of plants soothes, which is especially important for employees for whom stressful situations are a usual part of everyday life. Experts explain that plants in general not only improve the energy in the room, but also absorb harmful substances, which, unknowingly, enter the air from carpets, wall and floor paints, furniture, etc. For example, to clean the air in a room, you need one medium-sized plant for every 12 square meters.
Where should the plants be placed?
In the autumn and winter, the windowsill should be avoided, otherwise the plants may freeze by accidentally touching the glass or when the windows are opened to ventilate the premises. At the same time, plants on the windowsill can also overheat, as radiators are often located under them. To avoid this, it is recommended to place the plants in the brightest and sunniest possible place for them to bloom, but as far away from the window used for ventilation as possible - this can be challenging, but you must try! On the other hand, in cases when it is not possible to place the plant other than on the windowsill - then it is important to remember to turn it at least once a month by 40-50 degrees, so that the foliage of the plant remains even.
What to do for those who do not have "green fingers"?
Even if you feel that you do not have "green fingers", many houseplants can survive even if they are regularly forgotten. All you have to do first is find out where you want to put the plant, how much or how little daylight it can get in a day, and then go to the shop to find the right one with the help of a consultant. And when the plant is purchased - remember to put it in a beautiful decorative pot that will complement the interior of the office.
Monsteras - tolerate dark rooms and do not require frequent watering
This plant with large, shiny, broken and perforated leaves seems to have become one of the most popular plants in the world in recent years. Not only does it look impressive, but it is also easy to grow due to its good adaptability to the environment. Monsteras also feel good in relatively dark rooms, and they will endure periods when you forget to water them.
Succulents - especially suitable for those in a hurry
Succulents, such as cacti, aloe, agave and others, are most often popular in the office by those in a hurry who cannot pay enough attention on a daily basis. Succulents are drought-tolerant plants and should be watered infrequently, only about twice a month when the soil is sufficiently dry. At the same time, succulents should be watered abundantly so that the entire pot is moist.
Rubber trees or ficus plants - gorgeous appearance and easy care
There are different types of rubber trees with different growing characteristics, but in general they feel best in bright, sunny and warm rooms. In addition, broad-leaved rubber trees have returned to fashion, which could be seen in almost every school, clinic and cafe during the Soviet era. These houseplants are decorative and durable, so they are popular in both home and office interiors. Like monsteras, they are almost indestructible plants with very strong adaptability. On the other hand, if you forget to water such a plant, it may shed a bottom leaf, but the plant will not die.
Exotic zamias - especially colorful and durable
This houseplant is reminiscent of a prehistoric giant fern, which has two almost incompatible properties - an exclusive look and infinitely easy care. The zamia is characterized by a firm leafy stem, which in good conditions can grow up to a meter long, as well as lush green color. Zamias love dryness, so they do not need frequent watering - only when the soil is dry. This houseplant also loves heat, so it is important to keep track of whether the room is not colder than 15 degrees Celsius.
Can there also be green working spaces?
Companies in Latvia also try to create not only diverse and activity-based jobs for their employees, but also to provide as much greenery as possible, which will not only calm and improve the overall mood, but also promote work productivity. For example, next year the Class A office complex VERDE will be opened in Riga, which will be located not only in a convenient and prestigious location but will also use energy-saving solutions inside the building, including large, green areas in each building that will become open and freely available terraces for employees. On the roof of the lobby, staff will feel like they are in a green garden with various trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as cafes. All together, it will become a lively and green space where people can feel like they are in a park.