Greening Your Remote Workspace: Using Plants to Inspire Your Creativity and Productivity

There are a number of studies that prove the benefits of plants for office employees. A study by scientists at the University of Exeter found that plants boosted people’s creativity by 45 percent and productivity by 38 percent. Even more, people reported an overall 47 percent increase in feelings of well-being when their workspace contained plants. Some studies suggest that plants in the workplace even help absorb harmful gaseous pollutants like VOCs and absorb outdoor noise. Both make for a healthier work environment where the core human relationship to nature is acknowledged. Studies suggest that when this primal need to connect to a natural environment is satisfied, we relax more and anxiety lessens. Even posters or other graphics of natural elements can help reduce stress.

Before you start greening up your remote workspace ask yourself a few questions to help you choose the perfect plant. Remember if you have allergies, small children, or pets talk to your doctor and the veterinarian to make sure all plants in the house are safe for you, your family, and your furry friends.

What type of lighting does my remote workspace have?

Hopefully, your area has a window or some natural light. This is best for both plants and humans! Generally, houseplants that can tolerate low light work best if your desk is a distance from a window. Only buy a high light plant if you can put the plant directly in the window. Even then consider if the plant will get enough light in winter.

How humid or dry is the air in your home office?

Most houses and buildings have forced air, which is throughout the seasons. If your air runs very dry, consider plants that can take a light misting with a spray bottle or put a tray of water out next to the plants.

Is the plant poisonous? For children? For pets?

No matter the research you do online, double check with your doctor and veterinarian. You want to be absolutely sure that the plants you have in your home office will not cause a negative reaction if touched or ingested.

Will the plant produce flowers? If so, are they pollen-heavy?

Most houseplants do not have pollen-heavy flowers. However, sometimes plants that are better suited to outdoor growing are sold as houseplants. Those may have pollen which can trigger allergies. Double check.

Will the plant need a lot of maintenance?

Some flowers, like orchids, are finicky: they need very specific environmental conditions to be met in order for them to grow and bloom. Look for houseplants that are not picky about their conditions. This means plants that can thrive in low-light conditions, a variety of humidity levels, and low soil nutrients. This way you can simply water your houseplant and it will be fine.

Greening your remote workspace should be simple and fun. WIth a little research, you’ll be able to purchase plants that are good fit for your home office and family. Before purchasing plants, estimate how many plants you can fit on your desk, a side table, or office window. Because when it comes to bringing nature into the remote workspace, the more plants the better the benefits.