Greening Your Space: How Indoor Gardening Can Boost Your Health and Happiness
Indoor gardening is a growing trend internationally. Because of some housing structures here in Canada, having an outdoor garden may not be an option, hence the popularity of indoor gardens. The practice involves growing plants inside your home or office space. Not only does it add an aesthetic touch to your surroundings, but it also has numerous benefits for your health and happiness. In this post, we will pore over the benefits of indoor gardening and provide some tips on how to get started.
Benefits of Indoor Gardening
- It improves air quality
Indoor plants purify the air by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. These pollutants are often found in household items, especially cleaning products, and other materials like carpets and some types of furniture. According to a NASA study, certain plants like spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants can remove up to 87% of air pollutants in just 24 hours.
- Plants reduce stress and anxiety
Being surrounded by plants can have a calming effect on the mind and body. Research has shown that indoor gardening can lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol and increase feelings of relaxation and calmness. Plants also have a natural ability to absorb sound, which can create a more peaceful environment.
- They also boosts productivity
Studies have shown that indoor gardening can increase productivity levels in the workplace. In a study by the University of Exeter, employees who had plants in their office space reported a 15% increase in productivity compared to those without plants.
- Indoor gardening enhances mental health
Indoor gardening can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Taking care of and nurturing plants can give one a sense of accomplishment and purpose, which can increase confidence and self-esteem.
Getting Started with Indoor Gardening
Choose the Right Plants
Not all plants are suitable for indoor gardening, so it’s important to get the right ones for your space. Consider the lighting conditions, humidity levels, and temperature of your home or office. Some popular indoor plants that are easy to care for include spider plants, snake plants, pothos, and peace lilies. You can find seeds or seedlings at garden centres and supermarkets. Check the upcoming Canadian Tire flyer for everything you’ll need, from the seedlings to the pots, gloves, pot stands, fertilisers, etc.
Decide on the Right Containers
The container you choose for your plants is just as important as the plants themselves. Consider the size, material, and drainage of the container. Some popular container options include terracotta pots, hanging baskets, and mason jars.
Provide Adequate Lighting
Good lighting is not just about getting the perfect home decor ambiance. Plants also require different levels of light, so it’s important to choose the right location for your plants. South-facing windows provide the most sunlight, while North-facing windows provide the least. Consider using grow lights if your space doesn’t get enough natural light.
Water and Fertilise Regularly
Proper watering and fertilisation are essential for the health of your plants. Most indoor plants require watering once a week, but this can diff depending on the type of plant and its environment. Use a high-quality plant fertiliser every few weeks to promote healthy growth.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Indoor plants thrive in environments with moderate humidity levels. If your space is too dry, consider using a humidifier to increase moisture levels. Alternatively, you can group plants together to create a microclimate that promotes humidity.
Summary
Indoor gardening is a simple and effective way to improve the health and happiness of your home or office space. By choosing the right plants, containers, lighting, and watering methods, you can create a beautiful and beneficial indoor garden. Whether you’re looking to improve air quality, reduce stress, boost productivity, or enhance your mental health, indoor gardening has something to offer everyone. So why not give it a try and see the difference it can make in your life?
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