www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/best-office-plants-good-plants-for-the-office-environment.htm Best Office Plants: Good Plants For The Office Environment
By Nikki Phipps
(Author of The Bulb-o-licious Garden [1])
Did you know that office plants can be good for you? It’s true. Not only can plants enhance the overall appearance in the office, but they can also reduce stress and eliminate air pollutants. A healthy, happy employee is more productive, too. In addition, office plants can provide screening or a pleasant focal point.
There are numerous types of cool office plants to choose from, depending on your space and specific needs. With so many choices, nearly any setting can incorporate their own ideas for office plants. Let’s look at some good plants for the office.
Cool Office Plants for Beginners
Some of the best plants for an office are those requiring little care. After all, not everyone has a green thumb. Many cool office plants are easy to care for. Some good beginner plants for the office include:
•Pothos – Pothos [2] adapts well to a variety of office conditions, from low light levels to brighter ones. This easy-care plant, with heart-shaped, white-splotched leaves, makes a lovely addition sitting on a desk, shelf or table.
•Philodendrons – Philodendrons [3], of which most are climbers, are great for adding height to small areas. Sit them on filing cabinets or in hanging baskets. These plants are easy to grow and suitable for a wide range of indoor conditions, including occasional neglect.
•Spider plant – Spider plant [4] is not only one of the coolest office plants with its small spiderettes hanging down, but it’s also one of the easiest plants to grow indoors. Stick it up high for all to admire.
•Snake plant – Snake plant [5], or mother-in-law’s tongue, makes a huge statement in the office. It has attractive sword-like leaves that grow somewhat tall, making it excellent for focal interest or screening.
•Cactus plants – When all else fails, there’s the trusty cactus [6]. Just be sure to keep it located where no one is likely to be stuck. There are many types to choose from, all of which are certain to spark conversation.
Best Office Plants for Reducing Pollutants
Some of the best plants for an office are those that reduce air pollution. Good ideas for office plants include the following:
•Rubber plants – Rubber plants [7] not only make an excellent addition to nearly any office décor, but they are well known for effectively removing indoor air pollutants.
•Dracaena – Dracaena [8], or corn plant, is another great choice for eliminating pollutants. It’s easy to care for and makes a unique focal point or screening plant.
•Peace lily – Peace lily [9] is also known for cleaning up the air. It’s tolerant of low light and is a vigorous grower too. Peace lily works well for focal interest and screening.
Other Good Plants for the Office
There are many other plants suitable for an office setting. Some more ideas for office plants include:
•English ivy – Ivy [10] is not only easy to grow but also helps eliminate mold. Thriving in nearly any light condition, it looks great climbing up a pole or in a hanging basket.
•Umbrella plant – The umbrella plant [11] (tree) is perfect for providing privacy, as it grows quite tall. The amount of light generally dictates this one’s care – low light, drier soil; bright light, more water.
•Boston ferns – Boston ferns [12] can provide a nice touch to the office as long as their basic needs are met. They require adequate lighting and moist soil.
•African violet – No space? Consider the African violet [13]. It is one of the best office plants you can find. While these cute little plants require a little more upkeep, such as plenty of light and moisture, they’re great for adding a splash of color to dreary office environments.
