Plants make people better employees. Research has shown that when employees have contact with nature, they feel happier, more relaxed, more satisfied with their work, and more engaged. The strongest link to increased happiness is associated with sunlight exposure. But even a potted plant can increase employees’ feelings of well-being.

So if you can, bring a little nature into your workspace. Get yourself a plant. Not only do they look great, they can also help to make you feel more relaxed and invested in your work.

What kind of plant should you get? Well, that depends on how much natural light you have in your office. Here are a few good options for offices that get a lot of light, and those that don’t.

If you get a lot of light…

  • Jade plant – Jade plants come in all sorts of different varieties. They’re low maintenance and easy to grow. They would be happy to sit anywhere in your office, as long as they get plenty of direct sunlight.
  • Snake plant – Snake plants grow vertically and certain varieties can grow up to eight feet tall. They have a very dramatic look. They prefer a lot of light, but they’ll also put up with low light. They’re pretty forgiving.
  • Aloe vera – Aloe vera plants like dry, sunny conditions. So it’s OK if you forget to water them. They won’t complain.
  • Cactus – As long as you don’t mind their spiny exterior, the cactus is a great office plant. They require very little care. In the winter, you only need to water them once every three weeks. What could be easier?

If you don’t get a lot of light…

  • Pothos – The pothos plant is a lovely trailing vine that grows quickly and easily. And I can personally attest to the fact that they’re very easy to care for. I water mine once a week, and they never seem to mind if I’m a few days late.
  • Spider plants – Even in low-light conditions, spider plants can grow and thrive. They’re hardy plants that have a graceful look.
  • Peace lily – Peace lilies actually don’t like direct sunlight. So low light suits them just fine. They also produce beautiful flowers, which is a huge plus.
  • Lucky bamboo – These plants can grow in a vase of water, which is neat. (They’re also equally happy to be planted in a pot of dirt.) They’re extremely hardy. And it’s said that they can bring you luck. Excellent!

What’s your favorite type of office plant? Please share your thoughts in the Comments section below!

McDonough, L.S., Livermore, S., & Morgan, B. (2020, November 23). 15 easy-to-care-for plants to liven up your office space. House Beautiful. Retrieved from: https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/gardening/g3716/best-office-plants/