Bringing the outside in is something we do a lot within our home but it’s something that gets neglected somewhat in the workplace.

Given that we spend so much of our time at work, it’s really important that we surround ourselves with as much of the natural world as possible. Especially as plants provide us with so many benefits.

Here’s why it’s beneficial to have plants in the workplace…

INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY AND CREATIVITY

Dr Chris Knight from Exeter University has spent 10 years studying workplaces all over the world and has found that when plants are brought into offices – one plant per square metre – employee performance on memory retention and other basic tests improve substantially. Employees can be 15% more productive when “lean” workplaces are filled with just a few plants!

And for those working in creative environments such as agencies, plants can be a source of inspiration! Studies have revealed that those who work in environments with natural elements are 15% more creative overall.

REDUCED STRESS

Hopefully your work isn’t too stressful anyway – but plants can actually help to reduce people’s stress levels. The colour green has a calming and soothing effect on us anyway, but it is thought being closer to nature can reduce our anxiety and any tension we may be feeling.

In 2010, a study was done where they introduced plants into an office in Australia and measured the effect on the employees. They found:

• 37% fall in reported tension and anxiety
• 58% drop in depression or dejection
• 44% decrease in anger and hostility
• 38% reduction in fatigue

PURIFIED AIR

Research by Dr Fraser Torpy, director of the University of Technology Sydney Plants and Indoor Environmental Quality Research Group, found that indoor plants can help reduce carbon dioxide levels by about 10% in air-conditioned offices, and by about 25% in buildings without air conditioning.

We’ve known for a while that plants are really great at removing chemicals for the environment around them but this most research really confirms that indoor plants have really got our backs!

INTRODUCING PLANTS INTO THE WORKPLACE

And on top of all those amazing benefits, indoor plants just really bring a space to life. They brighten up a room and make it much more appealing. We’re supposed to be closer to nature – science backs it up!

If you’re looking to introduce plants into your office or workplace, then you have to think about which plants you’re going to choose. Ideally you want office plants or workplace plants that aren’t high maintenance. Plants that thrive in workplaces include succulents (such as aloe and cacti) because they’re low-maintenance and aren’t severely affected by temperature changes and don’t require constant care and attention.