Scientific studies have proven the benefits of having plants in your workspace, whether that's in the office or at home. Below are some of the positives to increasing the greenery around where you work.

1.They help relieve stress

Plants have the ability to bring nature indoors. This plays a positive role in our health and wellbeing. Nature relaxes us and gives us a sense of calm. A 2010 study found that stress among workers reduced significantly when plants were introduced to their workspace. They reported feeling less anxious, less depressed and less fatigued.

2. They increase productivity

Adding plants to the office can increase workers’ quality of life and productivity. According to research by the University of Exeter, productivity jumps 15% when previously ‘lean’ work environments are filled with just a handful of houseplants. Analyses into the reasons why plants are beneficial suggests that a green office increases employees’ work engagement by making them more physically, cognitively, and emotionally involved in their work.

3.They can increase attention

Offices and home workspaces can be filled with distractions. Adding natural elements, such as plants, can replenish our capacity to focus. Alongside this, plants help to reduce the distracting effects of background office chatter by absorbing some of the sounds.

4.They improve air quality

When we bring plants to our workplace, we can improve the indoor air quality. Some indoor plants can reduce toxins in the air, helping us to feel more energised. The Aloe Vera plant and the Snake Plant are good choices as they actually releases oxygen at night. Spider plants are also good indoor plants as they are easy to care for, and easy to propagate. 

5.They help reduce sickness

A Norwegian study in the 1990's found that neuropsychological symptoms, such as fatigue, were reduced by 23% when plants were present in the workspace. Mucous membrane symptoms were reduced by 24% overall when plants were present. Cough decreased by 37% and dry throat by 25%. Dry or flushed skin was reduced by 23% with plants in the workspace.

There are many reasons to bring a plant, or a number of plants into your workspace. It is an easy enough thing to do, especially if you get a low maintenance variety. Why not try including some greenery around your desk and see if it makes a difference for you.