Many studies have supported the fact that there are positives to having plants in your workspace. Whether in your office or your home working space, plants brighten any room. Humans have a clear and innate desire to feel connected to nature, with the scientific term for this known as ‘biophilia.’ However, many workspaces today tend to be stripped to the bare essentials, with fluorescent lighting and some prints gracing the wall, but nothing that really brings us back to our natural environment.

There are many benefits to adding some greenery to your working space, which we will explore in this piece. So when you next consider getting plants for home office, keep these points in mind!

1. Increased productivity

We don’t want to look at blank walls when working from an office or home. To spruce up our spaces, we can add plants to help improve our productivity. Don’t believe us? A study by the Cardiff University School of Psychology showed that working teams generally perform better when surrounded by workplace greenery. The project’s lead researcher, Marlon Mieuwenhuis, said, “Our research suggests that by investing in landscaping, the office with plants will pay off in the longer term. This is shown through an increase in the quality of life of the office workers.” The study showed that adding plants to a workspace increases work output by 15%.

2. Plants reduce stress

Most office spaces are less than ‘tranquil’ – they’re associated with loud call-taking, many computers and monitors and a coffee machine. Simply placing some greenery in your space will help create a peaceful working atmosphere. Stress is a common factor contributing to employee health. Studies support the idea that greenery is relaxing to the eye for several reasons. Sweet-smelling herbs, such as lavender, can help reduce stress and anxiety, while rosemary helps improve memory.

3. Create a green identity

In this ever-growing market, particularly for the newer Gen-Z workforce, companies must take an environmental awareness stance and be sustainably conscious. This is a key factor in how a business can attract and retain top talent. Providing office plants or having a rooftop garden will instantly give new employees an idea of your company ethos while offering them a welcoming experience.

4. Plants improve oxygen levels

Common pollutants in the air, such as carbon monoxide or formaldehyde, can cause health conditions such as fatigue, allergies and headaches. NASA conducted a study showing 50 different kinds of houseplants that can help improve air quality, the highest performers being lady palms, bamboo palms, areca palms and rubber plants. Unbeknown to many, plants can reduce the rate of sick building syndrome (SBS). SBS is a condition linked to indoor places like offices, with poor lighting, low humidity and improper ventilation. Symptoms include skin irritation, drowsiness and headaches, which can greatly impact your concentration at work.

5. A happier working environment

It is no secret that the happier your working environment, the happier you will be. A study carried out in 2014 by the University of Exeter revealed that employee happiness and productivity soar by 15% when a working environment has plants. Researcher Dr. Chris Knight spoke of the importance of each employee having a plant at their desk. This means you will be more psychologically engaged while working and produce better-quality work. These days, basic houseplants don’t have to break the bank. Whether you shop at a local vendor or invest in a few online, you’re sure to find one that’s right for you and your budget.

6. Increased creativity

Those who work in the creative industry will understand that creative blocks can be fairly common. Whether you become bored with a topic or are just stuck on one idea for a little too long, plants can positively impact you without your even realizing it. The more we stimulate our senses, the more our creative juices can get flowing!