It’s always exciting to walk into a house that has many plants taking up various spaces throughout. I often get envious of these households and wish that I had the funds to buy these plants and the skills to keep them alive. While it’s not necessary to have a wide array of plants in your home, everyone should own at least one low-maintenance plant.
There are many benefits of having a plant in your living space. They brighten up your home, help in social situations and benefit your health.
Not everyone is good with interior design, but plants are an easy way to spruce up a space. There are so many different varieties, as well as shapes and sizes, so you can easily find a plant that works for you and your space. Stores like Walmart sell plants for reasonable prices and it’s not hard to find a friend who is willing to give you a piece of their plant for you to propagate. There’s a great amount of excitement that goes along with watching a propagated plant grow.
For many introverts at social gatherings, the host’s dog is often their savior. In many cases the host’s plants can perform the same role. Plants can easily become conversation starters. You can ask questions such as, “What type of plant is this?” “Where did you get it?” and “How long has it been growing?”
Personally, I have had many conversations with people about their plants, typically when I’m one of the first people to arrive. Being able to just sit and admire someone’s plants can be an easy pastime while you are waiting. This is also something I do often while waiting at the doctor’s office.
When it comes to health, houseplants can improve our physical, mental, emotional and social health. Houseplants are well known for cleaning the air in your home, making it a much better environment which is good for people who spend a lot of time at home. Most houseplants are also natural humidifiers which can improve issues such as dry skin and respiratory problems. For people that are into self-care, getting a plant might be a good way to improve.
Houseplants are great mood boosters. They can reduce stress and anxiety which all college students might find extremely valuable. Being able to have a routine of caring for your plants can be calming for many individuals. Plants can also boost our self-esteem. I feel very proud when my plants are looking healthy. Many people who struggle with feeling lonely, are much happier when they have a plant to care for.
In the wintertime, especially in places such as Moscow, seasonal depression has many victims. Owning a plant is one way to curb the mental and emotional drains on us during the winter. With the cold temperatures killing on the green and life outside, it is nice to have living plants surrounding us in our homes.
If you are someone who claims that they cannot keep a plant alive, I suggest you get a spider plant, succulent, aloe vera plant or research some other easy ones. Because it is undeniable that owning even the simplest plants have countless rewards.
Rose Owens can be reached at [email protected]