Why You Need A More Plant-Based Home

If I ever find myself with some extra money burning a hole in my pocket, I buy

plants. Our home and office are full of them. I love the way they look, the way they feel and the sense of calm they bring to our spaces. In my opinion, you can never have too many plants. 

But you don’t have to take my word for it. There is some science to back it up. Here are the Top 5 Reasons to surround yourself with living greenery.   

#1 Improves Air Quality 

Plants absorb C02 and release oxygen. NASA says that houseplants can remove up to 87% of toxins from the air within 24 hours - things like gases from rugs and vinyl or benzene & trichloroethylene found in man-made fibers, paint and cleaning products. Plants absorb these gases and other volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) which can be harmful to our health. 

#2 Adds Natural Beauty 

Plants and flowers can add a pop of vibrant colour to your space. And with so many varieties of plant-life to choose from the decorating possibilities are endless. 

#3 Calm Your Mind

Plants help reduce stress and create a feeling of well being. They provide a pleasant and tranquil environment by reducing noise levels and adding natural beauty. Recently studies have reported that house plants improve concentration, productivity and boost your mood.  

#4 Humidity Control 

Plants release over 90% of the water they take in as part of the photosynthesis process. Why do we want moisture in our indoor spaces? Dry air contributes to skin irritations and itchy eyes. Breathing dry air can cause respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, nose bleeds and overall dehydration. 

#5 Improve Your Overall Health

Many studies have proven that plants can calm your heart rate, lower blood pressure and reduce muscle tension related to stress. Plants are also known to decrease headaches, coughs, sore throats and fatigue. 

Don’t have a green thumb or not sure where to start? Here are my Top 4 Low Maintenance House Plants.

Aloe (Aloe vera) is best known for its plump leaves that can provide a soothing gel for cuts and burns. Allow the plant's soil to dry completely in between waterings which may mean watering as little as every two to three weeks. This is a great plant to keep in bedrooms as it produces oxygen at night time.
	Philodendron is a fast-growing houseplant, with deep green heart-shaped leaves. Even inexperienced houseplant owners will have no trouble growing these luscious plants because they adapt to the conditions inside the home.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is an extremely easy-to-grow plant that also handily produces small "pups." Each of these plantlets can be rooted directly in potting soil. Our plant produces at least a dozen pups per year and I love planting them in cute little containers to give to friends!
	Snake Plant (Sansevieria) also known as mother-in-law's tongue or ribbon plant is a succulent with thick, waxy leaves. It loves being potbound and thrives on being ignored — the perfect plant for those with a brown thumb!

Not only do I love plants themselves, but I love that pots or cute little things they can grow from. The vessel can be just as beautiful as the plant! What's your go-to plant? We'd love to hear your thoughts on what you love about having plants in your space.
xo Shelley