Spring has finally sprung! In celebration of our upcoming Environmental Law Forum on April 13th and 14th, we're bringing you a blog about the environment's greatest and greenest contributors: plants!
If you don't have a plant in your office, this is your sign to get one. Not only is it guaranteed to make your workspace more cheerful and promote feelings of wellness, plants are scientifically proven to improve air quality and reduce stress. If you're worried about forgetting to water it, there's an extensive list of plants that are low maintenance and require minimal care. It's all about finding which plant is the right match for you.
Before you buy, take a moment to peruse your situation. How much natural light is there? Would the plant be receiving direct or indirect light? Are you looking for a small desk plant or a big floor plant to fill the space? If you are working from home, do you have small children or pets? There are some plants that are toxic if ingested, so it would be wise to take that into account.
With those questions answered, let's not delay any further! Here are 6 unique, low-maintenance plants to consider adding to your office.
1. Spider Plant. Spider plants are hardy plants that are great for beginners and do not require much water or light. Put one in a hanging planter and watch it flourish. If you happen to neglect it, these plants are quite forgiving and will easily bounce back. A healthy spider plant should produce babies or "spiderettes" on the end of its leaves. These can be pinched off, grown into new plants, and gifted to friends.
Care: Low/partial light. Water 1-2x a week.
Toxic: No.
2. Snake Plant. The snake plant, with its colorful sword-like leaves, is another great choice because it is especially hard to kill and can survive weeks of neglect. It works as both a tabletop plant or large floor plant, considering it can grow up to 4 feet tall. It's said to be especially good at purifying the air by removing toxins and producing oxygen. However, if you own a hungry dog or a curious cat, steer clear as the leaves are toxic when ingested.
Care: Low light. Water every 2 weeks.
Toxic: Yes.
3. Money Tree. Sadly, the money tree does not grow actual money, but it is still a popular office plant because it is said to bring good fortune. Its thick, twisted roots and big green leaves are sure to bring a tropical feel to your workstation. As you water it once a week, take a moment to turn it in order to promote even growth on all sides.
Care: Partial/bright indirect light. Water once a week.
Toxic: No.
4. Zebra Haworthia. Succulents are generally low-maintenance since they require minimal watering and propagate easily, but none so low maintenance as the zebra haworthia. Named for the textured, white-striped leaves, it's a tough little plant that doesn't require much light or water.
Care: Low/partial light. Water every 2 weeks.
Toxic: No.
5. Aloe. The aloe is a very cool plant--literally. Its leaves are filled with a cooling gel that can be used to soothe burns and moisturize skin. However, keep in mind that this gel should not be ingested so the aloe must be placed out of reach of children and pets. Otherwise, put it somewhere that receives plenty of indirect light and water it occasionally.
Care: Bright, indirect light. Water every 2-3 weeks.
Toxic: Yes.
6. Pothos. The pothos is another large plant great for filling out spaces and boasts unique "Swiss cheese" leaves. It's perfect for those lacking a green thumb because it will happily adapt to any level of light you place it in. Keep in mind that it's nicknamed "Devil's Ivy" because it grows fast, is hard to kill, and yes...it's not safe to eat.
Care: Any light. Water every 1-2 weeks.
Toxic: Yes.
These are just a few kinds of plants that could make an excellent addition to your office space. If you know of other ones that fit the bill, leave a comment down below!
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