Could your bedroom do with a green makeover? Some plants not only add a touch of colour and life to your space, but they could also improve your overall health and well-being. Certain plants have health benefits in your bedroom, from promoting relaxation and sleep to improving air quality and boosting your mood.
So, are you ready to transform your bedroom into a plant-filled oasis?
Mokgomotsi Morodi, an agriculture scientist from Limpopo, shares several bedroom plants that are good for your health.
According to Morodi, most of our homes lack appropriate ventilators, and we rely on windows for fresh air. At night, we close the windows, then what?
“Some [plants] have beautiful appearances and they make a bedroom beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.”
Indoor plants that work in the bedroom
Snake plant
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is an excellent choice for bedrooms. It releases oxygen at night, which can improve sleep quality. In addition, it filters indoor air pollutants and improves bedroom air quality.
The plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal watering and only direct light.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a common household plant that is often found on windowsills and countertops. It releases oxygen at night, which can improve air quality and help us breathe more easily while we sleep.
However, it’s important to be aware that aloe vera is toxic to pests, so it’s best to keep it out of reach of pets and children. The plant requires bright light but doesn’t need to be watered often.
Peace lily
The peace lily is a great choice for bedrooms, as it’s known for its ability to purify the air and create a peaceful atmosphere. It only needs to be watered once or twice a week, making it a low-maintenance plant. However, it should be kept out of reach of children and pets, as it is toxic if ingested.
The peace lily is particularly effective at breaking down toxic gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
Parlor palm
The parlor palm is another excellent choice for bedrooms, as it is effective at purifying the air and is safe for pets and children. This plant reaches four feet in height and does not require much maintenance. It can act as a natural humidifier, making it ideal for people with sinus issues. It prefers bright light and moist soil but should not be overwatered.
Spider plants
The spider plant is a remarkable choice for the bedroom, as it is known to purify indoor air and make it fresher. Its unique shape resembles a spider, with multiple stems growing from the main plant, each with ‘baby pups’ attached. The plant is also effective at neutralising toxic chemicals in the air. The spider plant is easy to care for and will thrive in a variety of light conditions, from direct sunlight to a shaded area.
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Bedroom plants maintenance
Sibongile Jiyane, a plant pathologist based in Tshwane, says caring for indoor bedroom plants is often easier than caring for outdoor plants. This is likely because indoor plants have more controlled environments, which means you can better control factors like temperature, light, and humidity. This makes it easier to provide the ideal conditions for your plants.
“Watering your indoor plants correctly is the first piece of advice.”
Jiyane says that it’s important to prevent overwatering your plants as this is one of the main causes of death in houseplants.
She recommends placing a saucer or tray underneath the pot, as this will catch any excess water that drains out of the pot. This will prevent damage to surfaces like wood or carpet that can be harmed by moisture.
She says, “Don’t overwater your plants and make sure the water drains out of the pot. This will prevent fungal growth, which can kill your plants.
“When this happens, the plant can no longer absorb water and nutrients, leading to further damage and even death.”
Diseases and pest control
Jiyane says indoor plants can get diseases that can make them unhealthy. To stop the disease from spreading, it’s important to remove any unhealthy or diseased plants, as well as any damaged leaves or stems. This will help keep the rest of your plants healthy.
“Aphids and spider mites are among the most soft-bodied pests that insecticidal soap effectively and conveniently treats.”
Sibongile Jiyane
Jiyane recommends using rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball to treat pests like mealybugs. This treatment works well, she says- it breaks down the pests’ waxy coating.
“Be sure to be consistent with your treatment and repeat it as needed until the pests are gone.”
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