Have “buy a houseplant” on your to-do list for your home or office, but haven’t gotten around to it? Don’t put it off any longer, as the benefits of having more “green” in your surroundings pays off.
Houseplants are good for your skin.
When plants are outside, they tap the groundwater table for water, which then evaporates through its leaves in a process known as transpiration. Studies show this accounts for 10 percent of the moisture in the atmosphere. Having a plant at home or in your office can increase humidity, which can be a gift in the dry months of South Dakota.
They clean the air.
“It cleans your air and removes carbon dioxide,” said co-owner of Sioux Falls Cliff Avenue Greenhouse Heidi Teal. Research has shown that plant leaves and roots remove traces of toxic vapors from inside buildings.
You can grow your own aloe.
Aloe Vera is popular for its healing properties, and is a solid starter plant. As it’s a succulent, it’s nearly impossible to kill from neglect, and can last for years.
Plants enhance cognitive function.
Keeping plants in your home or office can make you think better. Research has shown that plants improve concentration, improve memory, and result in better goal achievement. They also have been known to boost creativity.
House plants reduce stress.
Greenery makes you feel more at ease with your surroundings. It creates a more stimulating atmosphere, but also creates a more relaxed interior space. Co-owner of Cliff Avenue Greenhouse Hayley Ziegler said, “I think green and color helps. We’ll have costumers come in because they feel better coming into something that’s growing and blooming.”
They can help you sleep.
Along with creating warmth, certain plants emit a relaxing fragrance. Add one of these plants for a dose of zen in your bedroom: Jasmine, Gardenia, Bamboo Palm, Valerian, Honeysuckle, Rubber Tree Plant, Peace Lily, Aloe Vera, Spider Plant, English Ivy Plant, Lavender, Snake Plant, Pothos, and Hoya.
