Having potted plants in the office is beneficial not only for purifying the air but also for improving mood and relieving stress.
A touch of greenery on the desk can enhance focus, reduce work pressure, and boost productivity.
Selecting the right plants that require minimal maintenance ensures they stay healthy and vibrant even in a busy office environment.
Office plants should have strong shade tolerance, thrive under artificial lighting, and be capable of enduring low humidity levels caused by air conditioning or heating. Here are seven potted plants perfect for the workplace:
1. English Ivy
English ivy is a versatile plant that can be grown in hanging pots or allowed to cascade over shelves or windowsills. It is known for its ability to remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from the air. This low-maintenance plant thrives in semi-shaded environments and requires only occasional watering when the topsoil is dry.
To keep English ivy healthy, it’s essential to clean its leaves every two to three weeks. This enhances its photosynthetic capacity and prevents issues like yellowing or browning. With 8–10 hours of artificial light daily, it can thrive even in low-light conditions.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is one of the easiest plants to care for, making it ideal for busy offices. Its drought tolerance means it only needs watering every 25–30 days in low-light environments. It adapts well to office conditions, requiring little more than occasional cleaning of its glossy leaves.
The key to maintaining a healthy ZZ plant is to avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. When necessary, support its upright growth with a small stake or soft tie.
3. Golden Pothos
Golden pothos, a popular variety of pothos with variegated leaves, is nearly indestructible and can survive in various environments. It performs well under artificial lighting and requires minimal watering once the soil is thoroughly dry.
Although golden pothos thrives with moderate humidity, it can tolerate drier conditions typical of office spaces. To maintain its vibrant appearance, clean the leaves occasionally to remove dust and ensure optimal light absorption.
4. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant is a hardy succulent that requires almost no attention, making it a perfect choice for office desks. Its upright, architectural leaves are both attractive and functional, as they help purify the air.
To avoid overwatering, ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again. Snake plants are particularly sensitive to cold temperatures, so keep them above 7°C to prevent leaf damage. Fertilizing once every two months with slow-release fertilizer is sufficient for sustained growth.
5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese evergreen is a popular office plant with strikingly patterned leaves. Despite being slightly toxic, it excels at purifying the air and thrives with little maintenance. It requires only occasional watering when the soil is dry and adapts well to low-light environments.
Its low water and humidity requirements make it suitable for office spaces, but be mindful to avoid ingestion or frequent handling.
6. Aspidistra (Cast-Iron Plant)
Aspidistra, or the cast-iron plant, is an understated ornamental plant with narrow, glossy leaves. It is exceptionally resilient and grows slowly, making it an excellent low-maintenance option for offices.
It can survive in dimly lit areas and requires watering only once every 25–30 days. Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight, as it prefers indirect light.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The peace lily, also known as "One Sailed Boat," is a favorite for its lush green leaves and occasional blooms, even in low-light conditions. It thrives with moderate humidity and occasional feeding during the spring and summer.
Ensure the soil has good drainage and water only when it is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so monitoring soil moisture is crucial. With proper care, peace lilies maintain their lush appearance year-round.
Biophilia Expert Explains How to Pick the Right Office Plants | WSJ
Video by The Wall Street Journal
