Why you need these plants in your office now.

We all know about the benefits of bringing plants into the workplace - but here's a list of plants you should be incorporating into your space for more than just aesthetics - and here's why:

1. Air purifiers; get rid of toxins in your workspace now! Fill your workspace with natural air filtrating plants and let them absorb harmful toxins - these are particularly useful in office spaces with a lack of natural ventilation.

-Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix Roebelenii)

Dwarf or Pygmy palms are the babies of the palm family. They are relatively easy to grow in partial shade, growing up to six to 10 feet with their fronds reaching six foot too!

Toxins removed: formaldehyde and xylene. -Peace Lily

Also known as a spathiphyllum, peace lilies are an easy and undemanding plant to look after. Their glossy green leaves make the perfect addition to any room especially those spots with low light. Keep them happy with a weekly water and fertilise with a slow-release fertiliser in spring to promote growth and those glorious white flowers.

Toxins removed: benzene, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene

-Philodendron

The heart-shaped philodendron is a luscious addition to indoor spaces. Philo’s are relatively easy to look after they just need moderate water and bright, indirect sunlight.

Toxins removed: formaldehyde

-Spider plant

These are the perfect choice for newbies and those with a bad track record when it comes to plants. They thrive in indirect sunlight and survive in just about any condition (they’ve been known to survive in temperatures as low as 2 degrees). Spider plants also send out shoots of baby spider plants called spiderettes.

Toxins removed: formaldehyde and xylene.

-Boston Fern

This easy-to-grow fern is known for its sword-shaped fronds which makes it perfect for a hanging basket or pedestal. The Boston Fern thrives in humid environments and requires consistent moisture. Keep them happy with regular misting, moist soil and position them in indirect sunlight near windows, balconies and patios. In winter cut the fronds back by around 2-inches to help regenerate and grow in the warmer months. 

Toxins removed: formaldehyde and xylene.

2. Feng Shui; there are certain plants used in the Chinese methodology of Feng Shui - using energy science to create harmonious environments:

-Golden pothos: this is one of best Feng Shui plants because it’s particularly effective at removing chemicals from the air, such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. These are emitted from everyday items and appliances, and can cause headaches, dizziness, and other unpleasant symptoms.

However, they’re also said to be able to bring life to areas of the workplace or home that collect dead energy (such as above cabinets and shelving units), so place them in these areas wherever possible.

-Jade plant: (which is also known as the ‘Money plant’) is considered to be very lucky as its presence attracts wealth and prosperity. Because of this reason, they make popular housewarming and wedding gifts, although they can also bring good fortune to offices and other workplaces. According to Feng Shui, you can welcome money into the home or workplace by placing the Jade plant close to the entrance. If this isn’t possible, however, it should be placed in the southeast corner of the building.

-Chrysanthemums: Because they help to ease feelings of anxiety and promote positivity and optimism, chrysanthemums are another great plant for Feng Shui. This is due to the fact that the golden yellow colour of the plant represents the sun, and its ability to provide life-bringing energy to the planet.

Chrysanthemums should be placed on the first floor of your home or workplace, in the Fame area (or the back middle). They’re also the ancient symbol for fall (autumn); this means they’re especially lucky when brought into the building during this time of the year.

Hanging garden at 42 ACRES Shoreditch designed by Jeya Lorenz

3. Edible plants: placing fresh herbs and edible plants near or in the kitchen of your work space is always a welcome touch. Aside from the actual health benefits of these herbs and edible plants - allowing people to interact with plants; where they are touching, smelling and tasting them, induces positive feelings through all the senses of connecting with something living. Not to mention aesthetically it always brings life and beauty to a kitchen space!

-Basil

-Coriander

-Chives

-Marjoram

-Microgreens

-Sprouts