The Benefits and Drawbacks of Having Plants in the Workplace

Plants in the workplace can transform an office environment, enriching the space in numerous ways. From boosting aesthetics to improving air quality, the presence of greenery has been shown to provide a range of benefits for employees. However, it is also important to consider some potential drawbacks to ensure a balanced perspective.

Eight Benefits of Having Plants in the Office

1. Increased Productivity

According to a study by Cardiff University's School of Psychology, teams perform better when surrounded by greenery. Lead researcher, Marlon Nieuwenhuis, noted: “Our research suggests that investing in landscaping the office with plants will pay off through an increase in office workers' quality of life and productivity.” The study found that this simple and inexpensive addition to an office space can boost work output by as much as 15%.

2. Reduced Stress

Offices are typically not the most tranquil of spaces. Introducing plants can create a sense of peace, helping to improve concentration and reduce stress. Stress significantly impacts employee health, leading to frequent absences. Greenery can be relaxing for many people, and herbs such as lavender and rosemary are known to lower anxiety and improve memory, respectively.

3. Enhanced Green Identity

Environmental awareness is becoming increasingly important. Companies that are sustainably conscious are more likely to attract and retain top talent. Office plants or a rooftop garden can make the office environment more pleasant and welcoming, reflecting the company's commitment to sustainability.

4. Improved Air Quality

Plants improve oxygen levels and reduce pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde and particulates, which can cause headaches, fatigue, and allergies, all of which reduce productivity. A NASA study identified 50 different houseplants that enhance air quality, including rubber plants, Areca palms, and the hardy Snake Plant.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Healthy flowers and plants add decorative value, making any space more inviting. Strategically placed greenery can create secluded areas for calls or individual work, and planters can provide privacy, enhancing the overall office aesthetic.

6. Reduced Sickness Rates

Plants can reduce symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), which include headaches, skin irritation, and drowsiness caused by poor indoor conditions. By removing harmful pollutants, plants help to combat these symptoms, improving the overall health and productivity of employees.

7. Noise Reduction

Noise pollution in open-plan offices can be distracting and impact cognitive functions like memory and focus. Including plants and green walls in the office layout can reduce indoor noise pollution by absorbing and deflecting sound.

8. Energy Efficiency

Integrating plants into the indoor environment can help regulate temperature by releasing humidity, which reduces the need for heating and cooling. This can lead to significant energy savings and a smaller carbon footprint.

Potential Drawbacks

While the benefits are substantial, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

1. Maintenance Requirements

Plants require regular care, including watering, pruning, and pest control. Without proper maintenance, plants can deteriorate, leading to an unsightly and unhealthy office environment, and we want them for all the positive reasons above.

2. Allergies

Some employees may have allergies to certain plants, which can cause discomfort and health issues. It is essential to choose plants that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions.

3. Initial Costs

While plants are generally a cost-effective way to improve the office environment, there can be initial costs involved in purchasing and setting up greenery, especially for larger office spaces.

4. Space Constraints

Not all office spaces are suitable for plants. Limited space or poor lighting conditions can restrict the types of plants that can be kept and their potential benefits.

Having plants in the office can indeed bring numerous advantages, enhancing both the physical environment and the well-being of employees. By carefully selecting and maintaining the right plants, businesses can create a healthier, more productive workspace. However, it is crucial to weigh these benefits against potential challenges to ensure that the introduction of greenery is both practical and beneficial for everyone involved.

What plants should you choose for your workplace?

These are a list of plants we can recommend based on our own experience of plants we have been unable to kill.

The Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata), is an excellent choice for the office due to its resilience and low maintenance requirements. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to low-light corners, making it versatile for different office spaces. Its striking, upright leaves with distinctive green and yellow variegation add a touch of modern elegance to any workspace. Additionally, the Snake Plant is highly tolerant of irregular watering, which means it can withstand occasional neglect, a common issue in busy office environments. Its ability to thrive with minimal care makes it an ideal option for enhancing office aesthetics while requiring little effort from employees.

The Whale Fin Sansevieria (Sansevieria masoniana) is a standout choice for the office due to its unique and striking appearance as well as its low maintenance needs. This plant features broad, paddle-shaped leaves with attractive mottled patterns of dark and light green, adding a bold, sculptural element to any workspace. It thrives in a range of lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to low-light areas, making it adaptable to various office settings. The Whale Fin Sansevieria is also highly tolerant of infrequent watering, making it perfect for busy office environments where regular plant care might be overlooked. Its impressive visual impact combined with its hardiness ensures it enhances office aesthetics effortlessly while demanding minimal attention.

The Orange Bromeliad (Guzmania lingulata) is a vibrant and eye-catching addition to any office, known for its striking orange bracts that add a pop of colour and a touch of tropical flair to indoor spaces. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, making it suitable for well-lit offices and areas near windows. It requires minimal care, needing only regular watering to keep its central cup filled and occasional misting to maintain humidity. The Orange Bromeliad's unique appearance and ease of maintenance make it an excellent choice for enhancing office aesthetics, providing a cheerful and exotic element that can boost the overall ambiance of the workspace.

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an ideal office plant, renowned for its glossy, dark green leaves and robust nature. Its elegant, arching stems add a sophisticated touch to any workspace, complementing a variety of office decors. The ZZ Plant thrives in low to bright indirect light, making it highly adaptable to different office environments, including those with limited natural light. It is exceptionally low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering and being quite drought-tolerant. This hardiness makes the ZZ Plant perfect for busy offices where regular plant care might be neglected. Its sleek appearance and easy care requirements make it a popular choice for enhancing the office environment with minimal effort.

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is a popular choice for offices due to its elegant appearance and low maintenance needs. Its lush, dark green leaves and striking white blooms add a touch of sophistication and serenity to any workspace. The Peace Lily thrives in low to medium light conditions, making it suitable for offices with limited natural light. It requires moderate watering, preferring to dry out slightly between waterings, which suits busy office environments well. Additionally, the Peace Lily is known for its resilience and ability to thrive with minimal care, making it an excellent option for those looking to enhance office aesthetics effortlessly while enjoying the plant's graceful beauty.

Conclusion

Incorporating plants into the workplace offers numerous benefits, from enhancing aesthetics and reducing stress to improving air quality and boosting productivity. Plants like the Snake Plant, Whale Fin Sansevieria, Orange Bromeliad, ZZ Plant, and Peace Lily are excellent choices due to their low maintenance requirements and ability to thrive in various lighting conditions. However, it's essential to consider potential drawbacks such as maintenance needs, allergies, and space constraints to ensure a balanced approach. Overall, the strategic introduction of greenery can create a healthier, more inviting, and more productive work environment for employees, making it a worthwhile investment for any office.