Mindful Greenery: Plant Psychology
- Lauren Imbruglia
- Mar 7
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
Houseplants do more than just make our space feel and look better; they can impact our psychology and how we feel. Numerous scientific studies have explored this matter and yielded results that shed light on it. Indoor plants offer many benefits, including improved psychological well-being and enhanced physical health.
What Are the Benefits?
An improved overall mood
Reduced stress levels
Increased productivity when added to a workspace
Improved attention span
Increased speed of reaction in a digital task
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced fatigue and headaches by 20-25%
Houseplants make us feel good because we want to connect with nature. We find the color green, prominent in most houseplants, calming. Adding just one plant can brighten up a dull space and boost your mood!
Did you know that people spend up to 90% of their time indoors? This makes indoor plants potentially even more important than outdoor greenery for mental well-being. While outdoor greenery improves health through factors such as air quality, physical activity, and social cohesion, indoor plants primarily boost mood and provide a sense of calm.
What Plant Do We Choose?
A study was released that actually measured which plants provide these benefits. Participants identified their favorite and least favorite plants. They then used scales of opposing adjectives to measure the aspects of each plant’s appearance while rating how beneficial they believed each plant was for well-being and air quality.
The eight species included in the study were weeping figs, mother-in-law’s tongue, cacti, prayer plants, Birds Nest Ferns, Golden Pothos, dragon trees, and palms. These plants are commonly found in homes and offices. The ones that delivered the greatest sense of well-being were the Pothos, weeping fig, and palms.
Air Quality and Indoor Pollutants
Indoor air can surprisingly be polluted. Chemicals from furniture, paints, cleaning products, and other outdoor sources can contribute to “Sick Building Syndrome.” While this isn’t heavily common, it’s amazing how adding one plant can bring relief.
Top Air-Purifying Indoor Plants
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide
Easy to grow, tolerates low light
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)
Removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene
Also helps reduce airborne mold spores
Prefers indirect light
Snake Plant / Mother-in-law’s Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Removes: Benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene
Very low maintenance and tolerates neglect
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Bostoniensis’)
Removes: Formaldehyde
Likes humidity; ideal for bathrooms or kitchens
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Removes: Formaldehyde
Thrives in moderate light and humid conditions
The Takeaway
Indoor plants are and have always been more than just decoration. They’re accessible tools that help improve mental and physical health, support relaxation, boost focus, and even help clean indoor air. Research is still evolving, but the evidence is clear: adding greenery to your space, whether it is a school, office, or home, can be an effective step towards a healthier environment.
Bringing Nature Indoors
Incorporating plants into your home is a wonderful way to create a serene atmosphere. Think about the spaces in your home that could use a little life. Maybe it’s your living room, kitchen, or even a cozy corner in your bedroom.
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Space
When selecting plants, consider the lighting conditions and your lifestyle. Some plants thrive in low light, while others need bright, indirect sunlight. If you’re a busy person, opt for low-maintenance varieties.
Caring for Your Green Friends
Once you’ve chosen your plants, caring for them is essential. Regular watering, proper drainage, and occasional fertilization will keep them healthy. Remember, each plant has its own needs, so do a little research to ensure you’re meeting them.
The Joy of Plant Parenting
Becoming a plant parent can be incredibly rewarding. Watching your plants grow and thrive brings a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they can be a great conversation starter when friends visit!
In conclusion, bringing the peace and wellness of indoor plants into your home is a beautiful journey. So, why not start today? Your space—and your mind—will thank you!
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