We’ve all been told about the positive effects indoor plants can have on your wellbeing – but there’s a catch.
A new study has found you actually need to keep the plants alive to reap the benefits.
In fact, joint research by the RHS and University of Reading found surrounding yourself with shriveled plants actually makes you sadder than having no plants at all. As a result, researchers recommend removing dying plants from your home to protect your mood. (Alternatively, you could try and save your dying house plant.)
Lead researcher Jenny Berger, a Built Environment PhD researcher at the University of Reading and lead author of the study, said: “Our research has shown that when choosing houseplants appearance is important. Plants which people find attractive and interesting are likely to give us the biggest well-being boost and green, lush plants will bring a healthy feeling to the indoor environment. To keep plants looking attractive, choose ones you can easily maintain.”
Healthy, lush, leafy plants scored highest
The researchers set out to see how people’s perception of their wellbeing was affected by houseplants.
Using images, participants were asked to score plants based on how beautiful, interesting, uplifting and relaxing they found them. Unsurprisingly, healthy, lush and leafy plants scored highest and were considered to have a positive effect on the way people felt around them.
Popular plants included weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), Calathea and Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa).
Researchers gave a special mention to palms as they’re usually reminded people of happier times, like being on holiday.
The most ‘beautiful’ plants, according to participants, were those with those with a softer, rounded canopy, such as devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum).
Pick plants that maximise well-being
Dr Tijana Blanusa, principal horticultural scientist at the RHS and agri-environment researcher at the University of Reading, who was also involved in the study, said: “This study adds weight to the important role houseplants can play in improving mental health and well-being in the indoor environment.
“Choosing plants that are easy to care for and maintain with the right support – such as the use of self-watering containers for thirsty plants such as peace lilies (Spathiphyllum wallisii) or choosing less water-demanding plants such as Zamioculcas – will ensure they stay healthy and continue to provide these benefits to well-being.”
Researchers said they hope that their findings will help inform designers, architects as well as homeowners homeowners to pick the plants that maximise well-being benefits for people.
5 low maintenance house plants
They’ve also listed their top five low maintenance house plants:
- The ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
- Devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Aloes
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