Why you NEED more houseplants: The 3 benefits that could affect your health

HOUSE PLANTS are a growing trend among Generation Z, with a study by the Royal Horticultural Society discovering that four in five 16-24-year-olds own a houseplant - but what are the benefits of having plants inside your home?

By Phoebe Cornish, Senior Lifestyle Reporter

With an estimated 27 million people partaking in gardening around the UK, it’s clear that there are many budding -enthusiasts across the nation. As the summer draws to a close, us Brits are preparing for the colder weather, which for many, means less time spent in the garden. Spending more time indoors is the perfect time to think about indoor , and Express.co.uk have spoken to the experts to find how you can reap the hidden benefits of having more plants in your this autumn.

What are the benefits of houseplants?

Not only are houseplants a great way to fill empty space and breathe life into your property (literally), but there are many invisible effects that you can benefit from when adding plants to your home.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Owen Lewis, Director of Compost Direct said: “Bringing aspects of the outdoor world indoors is the best way to bring your home closer to nature.

“Houseplants clearly have more benefits than simply adding some green decoration to barren tables and windowsills.

“From cleansing homes, creating fragrant air, and boosting our mental health – houseplants are the ultimate companion.

Woman smells green pot plant- background of houseplants

Why you NEED more houseplants: The 3 benefits that could affect your health (Image: GETTY)

Woman meditates around houseplants

Why you NEED more houseplants: Houseplants can aid mental well being and calm your mood (Image: GETTY)

Keeping your house plants in good condition is the best way to reap the many health benefits of these lively and vibrant home additions.

A well-placed plant will thrive, making its air cleansing and mood-boosting qualities that little bit more intense whenever you’re home.

Improved mental health

During lockdown we all learned the importance of the great outdoors in regards to our mental wellbeing, so adding a touch of nature to your home when it’s not so nice outside is a great way to improve your mood.

Green power

The colour green is thought to promote healing so try adding a potted leafy green dragon plant or green-leafed orchid to your windowsill or desk.

Couple work from home together

Why you NEED more houseplants: Houseplants can boost your mood and productivity (Image: GETTY)

Known to soothe anxious minds, the green hues of indoor plants are bound to calm your mood and leave you feeling at ease - especially if you’re working from home.

Aloe vera and lavender are proven to reduce stress levels and help both your physical and mental well-being.

Boost productivity

Research consistently finds that adding plants to the workplace increases productivity by up to 15 percent, as proven by a recent study published by the Journal of Experimental Psychology.

Replenishing focus when you’re WFH is essential to get the job done while the world adjusts to a new normal.

Experts recommend investing in a snake plant or peace lily to create a working oasis - just looking at nature can shift distractions and relax your environment.

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Air cleansing qualities

Experts at Babythingz - who specialise in baby furniture and well-being told Express.co.uk: “During the day, whilst they are performing photosynthesis, good indoor plants reliably reduce VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and increase oxygen to carbon dioxide ratios.

“Although they aren’t fully proven to rid all contaminants around us, there are a range of
potted plants that contribute to improving air quality.

Opt for a barberton daisy or english ivy to cleanse your home of toxins found in a range of
household materials, including paint and furniture.

To fully take advantage of this, place the plant in a room with plenty of natural light and keep the soil moist and well-drained.

Woman alseep on bed with houseplants beside her

Why you NEED more houseplants: House plants can help you sleep better (Image: GETTY)

A better night's sleep

A good quality night’s sleep has many benefits, so if you’re not getting enough shut-eye during the week, it might be time to invest in a plant for your bedroom.

Sleeping well is proven to make you more alert and focused the following day.

A bamboo palm or gardenia gives a warm and clean feel to your entire bedroom while emitting a fresh scent to induce a soothing night’s.

According to Babythingz, interacting with plants before going to sleep can help improve sleep quality for people living in small, isolated environments.

Man waters plants indoors

Why you NEED more houseplants: Caring for your plants will make them more beneficial to your health (Image: GETTY)

Low maintenance plants:

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Owen said: “To get the most out of your houseplant, you should ensure that it is watered and fed correctly using moist, nutritious soil and placed near a light source.

“Some houseplants, such as pothos plants and spider plants, need little maintenance and are a great place to start when looking for your first potted friend. You can grow your collection from there.”

Jade and wax plants are perfectly suited for surviving indoors without direct sunlight and are easy to care for.

A multipurpose compost, houseplant compost, or loam-based compost is suitable for most indoor plants

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