Our homes aren’t the only place that could use a little décor to help create a peaceful and serene environment — our place of work can benefit from the same. Aside from hanging pictures with positive sayings and decorating our desks with photos of family members, having plants throughout the office can also make us smile. Not only can they make you feel good, but studies have shown that employees are more productive when workplaces are decorated with some indoor office plants.
Could your office use a pick-me-up? If so, here are some of the best plants to do just that.
Bamboo
We love using bamboo around the office due to the calming effects it has on work spaces. It’s also known to clean the air, which is another added bonus for your health. These bamboo plants are the perfect size for that space on your desk that appears to be rather empty, and, in addition to the health benefits you experience, you may even find that one brings you a bit of good luck throughout your work day too.
Bonsai
Indoor bonsai will need some sun in the morning, so if your office has south- or west-facing windows, these are an excellent choice to place on the window sill. Maintenance is on the simpler side for indoor bonsai, as they tend to respond best when being watered every two or three days rather than every day.
Cactus
This cactus dish garden is perfect for the office, mainly because of its size. No larger than a paper plate, one of these can fit just about anywhere, but we recommend using one for your desk if your individual work space could use some enhancements — just be strategic about where you put it so that no one who comes to visit you gets stuck by it. These cacti and succulents can survive in low light and no light with very little water, making them a great office plant for any new plant parents.
Snake plant
Sanseveria Zeylanica, aka snake plants, are a showstopper in any office that could use some brightening up. This office plant grows straight up with a glossy, speckled leaf and is extremely low maintenance — you’ll love this plant if your motto is “Work smarter, not harder.” Snake plants are susceptible to root rot, so watering only every three or so weeks is ideal. They also tolerate all types of light as long as it’s not direct (which you rarely get near a desk anyway), making this versatile plant a must for any cubicle in need of some edge.
Orchid
Orchids, the 2023 Flower of the Year, prefer filtered light rather than direct sun, so they’re perfect for spaces that are out of the way of the sun’s rays. We suggest using these to brighten up a corner of your office that’s a bit darker than the rest of your work space. They also only require watering about once or twice a week, so maintenance won’t be too difficult!
Philodendron
Philodendrons are ideal for office environments since they’re relatively easy to grow and can tolerate a ton of different conditions. They’re usually OK even with just occasional care. If this sounds like something you’re interested in, a sandstone garden would be a great choice. It includes a mix of green plants, including silver philodendron, and is the perfect size for a desk, ledge, or shelf.
Peace lily plant
When you’re going to spend 40-plus hours a week in your office, keeping calm is key. A peace lily plant can help with that, and it comes with the bonus of being able to clean and purify indoor air. Keep your peace lily away from cold, drafty windows and out of direct sunlight for best growth results. Peace lilies are an especially good office plant because they can tolerate periods of drought, so they’ll forgive you if you forget about them while you focus on a project deadline.
Our new series,Rooted in Happiness, shares the many mental, emotional, and physical benefits of plants. From boosting productivity to reducing stress, we bring you expert health tips on different types of plants proven to better your quality of life.
Plants—they’re alive, colorful, scented , and did we mention just plain beautiful? While many people are aware of the many decorative benefits of plants, few realize that they have the ability to improve your mental and physical health. Whether you live in the “Concrete Jungle” or the vineyards of Northern California, every home can benefit from bringing the great outdoors inside.
Benefits of Plants Infographic
They Reduce Stress Levels
Have you ever noticed that the minute you step out into a lush forest or beautiful park, you instantly feel at ease? It’s not your imagination—people actually feel calmer when surrounded by greenery.
Plants Improve Air Quality
Believe it or not, some plants are so good at purifying air and supplying oxygen that NASA actually requires them to be onboard certain spaceships.
But even your typical green plant has the ability to:
Reduce carbon dioxide levels in your home.
Control humidity levels.
Reduce pollution levels in your home (specifically the pollutants benzene and nitrogen).
Diminish airborne dust levels.
Lower room temperatures.
Add pure, clean oxygen to a room.
Plants Help You Heal
Plants may not be a miracle cure, but studies have shown that something as simple as looking at a picture of nature can decrease pain levels. Take, for example, a 1993 study that looked at how artwork and simulated windows in hospitals affected patient healing. Amazingly, patients who looked at landscape photographs (compared to others who had white panels or abstract paintings in their room) reported less anxiety and needed less medication.
The reason? Scientists believe that the calming effects of nature images can reduce cortisol levels and improve your mood, effectively speeding up the healing process. If a picture can do all that, imagine what live plants could do!
Health-Promoting Plants to Bring into Your Home
Lavender
Lavender isn’t just a beautiful bloom for your garden–the flowering plant can provide various health benefits due to its gentle and calming scent. Lavender is often used in Epsom salts, soaps and candles to help promote relaxation and relieve stress. Lavender essential oils can also be placed in a diffuser–let it run through the night and experience the soothing scent for less restlessness and insomnia.
Rose Bush
“Stop and smell the roses” isn’t just an expression anymore! Studies have shown that just by looking at a rose, people were able to decrease their stress levels and feel more level-headed.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has been used a natural remedy for generations, surpassing the test of time as new methods and medicines have been developed. The clear gel from the plant’s leaves soothes the skin and is typically used for sunburns, psoriasis, frostbite and general burns.
Snake Plant
Sansevieria, also know as the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue, is well known to improve the air quality of your house. Snake Plants remove toxins from the air like trichloroethylene, formaldehyde and toluene all while converting the carbon dioxide you release into oxygen. Another great benefit? They’re notoriously easy to care for. Looking for more easy-to-care for plants? Learn more here.
Fern
If your home suffers from low levels of humidity, skip the humidifier and consider buying a fern. Within days, you’ll notice that your skin and hair feel less dry and your home’s air is easier to breathe.
Peace Lily
Like the Snake Plant, Peace Lilies are a great pollutant remover. They can absorb harmful air-bound substances like ammonia and xylene that may be present in your home. Not only will you breathe better, you’ll breathe lighter—the peace lily has a pleasant, calming aroma since it produces flowers.
If asked, we bet you could list at least five different types of plants and flowers that can be found in your garden or in a beautiful bouquet, but could you name five plants that thrive in the water? While you may not be all that familiar with them, you’ve probably come into contact with an aquatic plant or two before (if you have a fish tank at home or prefer to spend your time being one with nature, we’re looking at you). But since just seeing them isn’t enough, we’re breaking things down to increase your awareness about plant life in the water.
What are aquatic plants?
Aquatic plants are those that can be found in any salt or freshwater environment — a small fish tank, home aquarium, lake, pond, ocean, you get the idea. Whether they live above water, are fully submerged in water or somewhere in between doesn’t make too much of a difference; the main concept to know is that aquatic plants are any species that naturally prosper in a wet environment.
Characteristics of aquatic plants
The characteristics of aquatic plants can vary depending on the type, but there are a few that remain the same. For example, aquatic plants can utilize less of their resources for the purpose of support tissues as they are naturally able to stay afloat. Furthermore, water loss doesn’t have to be a concern because these plants are constantly surrounded by it. But aside from those characteristics that are consistent, here are some that vary based on classification.
Submerged plants are usually without a cuticle layer in order to avoid excessive dryness.
Submerged plants lack xylem since their leaves can do all of the work.
The leaves of submerged plants rarely have stomata.
Immersed plants have leaves that stick out of the water with access to the air and sun, though their roots are always located at the bottom of a body of water.
Free-floating plants have leaves that float on the surface of the water as opposed to sticking out of it.
Benefits of aquatic plants
Aquatic plants aren’t just used to give a fish tank some character or to serve as a resting place for frogs (though their ability to add to the aesthetics of bodies of water is certainly something worth mentioning). Rather, they are an extremely important part of aquatic environments as they can:
Provide protection to fish
Increase oxygen levels in water
Filter water
Prevent undesirable plants from growing
Act as food
Additionally, in larger bodies of water specifically, they can also help our shores fight against aggressive currents and erosion.
Types of aquatic plants
Now that you know more about what aquatic plants are, their characteristics and their benefits, it’s time to get into the different types that can be found. Below, we’ve put together a list of aquatic plants that can be found in fish tanks/aquariums, the ocean and ponds.
Aquatic plants for a fish tank/aquarium
Regardless of whether you have a small fish tank at home or support a large aquarium, some popular aquatic plants for your home to consider are water hyacinths, anubias, and java moss.
Water hyacinths, also known as eichhornia crassipes, are native to South America. A free-floating plant, these are known to be approximately three feet tall at their highest. Water hyacinths are particularly important because they are good aerators for the water and can also absorb harmful waste.
Anubias plants are a great choice if you’re looking to spice up your fish tank’s personality. Known to originate in Africa, these plants really stand out among other fish tank decor as they are one of the taller aquatic plants.
Java moss is beneficial for a home fish tank because it can thrive under various conditions and can help maintain the nutrients in water. Additionally, it can grow pretty quickly!
Aquatic plants for the ocean
If you’ve been to the beach, you must be familiar with at least one aquatic plant — seaweed! This type of aquatic plant essentially encompasses several types of marine plants and algae, two being phytoplankton and kelp. Here’s how they differ:
Phytoplankton, sometimes called microalgae, are one of the smaller types of seaweed. And though this is a plant that thrives in the ocean, it is similar to our terrestrial plants since it does require sunlight in order to survive. You can usually find this type of plant towards the ocean’s surface, and one of its main functions is to provide food for those animals that live in the sea.
Kelp, on the other hand, is a smaller seaweed that can be found in the ocean. More often than not you’ll find “kelp forests” in shallow ocean waters. These are particularly important to ocean life because it provides food and shelter.
Aquatic plants for a pond
Even if you don’t have a pond in your backyard, it’s still important to be familiar with this last group of aquatic plants. We bet you would definitely recognize the first – the water lily:
Water lilies, also called nymphaea odorata, are important to our waters because of the way that they provide shade and help keep things clean (and of course, they are a great place for frogs to kick back and relax). Similar to phytoplankton, water lilies are best suited for shallow areas, and they’re also known for the beautiful flower that blooms aside the leaves (just like the lilies you may have in a vase at home).
Next up, the lotus. This type of aquatic flower is often mistaken for water lilies as they look pretty similar at first glance. Since they do prefer warm weather it can be difficult for this type of plant to thrive in cold temperatures, but when it is blooming it may be one of the most beautiful aquatic plants you see.
Last but not least, there is also the arrow arum. These plants are known for the food that they provide for ducks, and again, they primarily thrive in shallow waters.
Aquatic plant care
If you are responsible for aquatic plants in any way, shape, or form, be it for your home aquarium, outdoor pond, maybe even a garden with aquatic features, it’s important to know that caring for this type of plant life may differ from your usual routines. First things first, make sure that you do your research about which plants can survive in the environment you want to put them in — depending on temperatures and lighting, the right plant for you may not be the same as your neighbor’s.
Once you’ve determined which type of aquatic plant or flower you want to use, make sure to check in on them regularly to ensure that everything is going smoothly. For example, you should prune your plants when needed to ensure that your pond or aquarium is nicely manicured, and you must also check the water to make sure it hasn’t been overtaken by any gases that can harm your plants. Finally, if your aquatic plants are living outdoors, make the necessary adjustments to bring them indoors when winter arrives, or rearrange their placement in your pond to ensure that winter weather doesn’t disrupt them!
House plants are becoming very popular with millennials, and it’s easy to see why. Following the trend of coziness in interior design, plants are an easy way to spruce up any space in a flash.
To get you started on your plant parent journey, here’s a list of the seven most popular house plants that can fit into any room you choose.
1. Roses
A flower that’s been popular since ancient times, roses come in over 300 species. The Romans used the rose plant as room decorations or jewelry, and it’s one of only three flowers mentioned in the Bible. Roses are the ultimate symbol of love and come in a variety of colors with different meanings, so you’ll never get bored of them in your space!
Loves: Moist soil, mulch, Epsom salts, and banana peels in fertilizer
The rose bush brings the beauty of the outdoors in easily thanks to its small size. Roses are a colorful choice for any room, and they add a bit of romance to any atmosphere. Pink roses represent femininity and sweetness, making the pink rose bush a delicate touch in minimalist interiors.
Can’t get enough of the rose? Double the fun with our Charming Rose Garden! It features both pink and yellow roses for a fresh variety. Roses are often thought of as an outside plant, but the cute picket fence planter allows you to bring that rustic look indoors.
2. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are a bubbly bloom that always covets attention in its flowering months. They grow in large globes and can reach up to 15 feet in height once planted. There are four types of hydrangeas grown in the US: oakleaf, bigleaf, panicle, and smooth. Hydrangeas range in color from blue to purple to pink, depending on the pH level of the soil in which it’s planted.
Hydrangeas can be sensitive to sunlight and heat, so why not bring them inside? Your guests will be delighted to find this popular house plant in your home rather than outside in a garden, where it more commonly resides. This hydrangea plant comes in both purple and white to complement any interior design aesthetic. Plus, it arrives in a timeless glass mosaic planter, making it an instant pick-me-up for any space.
3. Dish gardens
Dish gardens are a fun way to present a variety of plants at once. The garden bowl or dish is usually a mini ecosystem with compatible plant types. The plants in dish gardens typically do not grow very quickly, so they need minimal care. Dish gardens make a big statement with very little effort, so they’re great gifts for even the most black-thumbed friends and family.
Succulent dish gardens have that rustic look that’s trending in interior design. Succulents are high indirect light, low water plants, so they’re very forgiving if you go on vacation or simply forget about them. This succulent dish garden features a variety of succulents nestled in a reclaimed wood container.
This blooming dish garden will inject your home with life and vibrancy. The fresh foliage comes in a wooden window sky box with “bloom” stencil-cut into the façade. This dish garden makes a lovely windowsill addition, especially in the kitchen.
4. Bonsai
Bonsai is a horticulture art form developed in Japan, dating back to the 14th century, that trains trees to grow in an older, aesthetic style. Bonsai trees are miniature enough to fit in a basin, their name literally translating to “tree in tray.” They are not genetically enhanced to be small, so any plant can become a bonsai if cultivated correctly. This centuries-old practice may seem intimidating, but have no fear — you can buy these trees full grown, so you just need to care and maintain the plant.
This Satsuki azalea bonsai plant has green, glossy leaves and will bloom with vibrant pink flowers from May to June. While you won’t have the flowers all year long, the leaves are evergreen, and it will flourish all year long with the right care. The azalea bonsai needs a slightly acidic soil and sunny spot to live. You should avoid hard tap water and instead use rainwater or filtered water. Prune your bonsai at the base more frequently than the top for the correct shrub shape
Our gardenia bonsai features green, waxy leaves and creamy, white flowers. Gardenias prefer to be kept in humid settings with a temperature between 60 and 74 degrees. Gardenia bonsai trees require more frequent watering than other varieties, such as the azalea, so this isn’t a plant for someone who travels often.
5. Orchids
Orchids are an extremely old flower type, with fossils containing evidence of the flowering plantdating back 100 million years. It makes sense, then, that orchids are part of the largest family of flowering plants, with more than 25,000 species documented around the world, and on every continent. The flowers of the orchid can survive anywhere from a few hours to six months, depending on the species. With plenty of options to choose from, the orchid is a versatile option for your house or apartment.
This orchid plant comes in both purple and white, with wing-shaped blooms. True to its name, the Elegant Orchid adds serenity and a sophisticated touch wherever it’s grown. Place your orchid near an east-to-south-facing window for best flowering results.
6. Bamboo
Did you know that bamboo is the fastest-growing plant on the planet? In the right conditions, it can grow up to three feet in 24 hours. Bamboo reaches maturity after only three to five years, so you don’t need to worry about constant maintenance. Bamboo is especially good for air flow indoors; the plant releases 30% more oxygen into the atmosphere and absorbs more carbon dioxide than other plants. We recommend this popular house plant for anyone with asthma or similar conditions.
Bamboo typically grows straight up, so why not stand out with an interesting shape? This heart-shaped bamboo plant will leave the recipient feeling lucky to be loved. Since bamboo only needs indirect light, it makes an excellent desk plant. The zen aesthetic quality of this popular house plant could also help with all that extra stress from work! The Sweet Heart Bamboo plant comes in a single, double, and triple heart design so you can express yourself to your heart’s content.
7. Gardenias
Gardenias are known for their powerful scent. These flowering plants have a waxy leaf texture and prefer tropical conditions since they are native to Asia and Africa. Gardenias symbolized purity and sweetness, as well as a secret love. They usually flower mid-spring to mid-summer, but, when properly cared for, the waxy leaves are evergreen.
Loves: High humidity, all types of light, acidic fertilizer
The Grand Gardenia is a wonderful addition to humid spaces, such as bathrooms with showers. The flowers have a strong scent, so anyone with a particularly sensitive nose should be aware. This popular exotic flower is shy to the touch (excessive touching of its petals will lead to bruising) and will deteriorate much faster if the flowers are cut. We recommend wetting your hands before touching.
Feel like it’s time to update your home’s look, but not sure where to start? Turn to the great outdoors for your inspiration! Houseplants are the hottest thing in interior decorating, and it’s not hard to see why. Indoor plants make functional decorations that add color and life to your space while simultaneously cleaning the air.
With so many kinds to choose from, finding the right plant for you can be intimidating. To help, here are our picks for the best indoor plants.
Peace lily (Spathephylum)
This elegant beauty is a favorite among houses across the country. Though it’s not actually a lily, this plant is beloved for its ability to look beautiful even when it’s not in bloom.
Pros
Peace lilies are on NASA’s list of top air purifying plants.
It’s an easy-to-care-for plant.
It thrives in indirect light and shade.
Cons
Peace lilies prefer to be kept in rooms with a temperature between 65 and 80 degrees.
It may be toxic to dogs and cats.
Care
Peace lilies are sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, so make sure to filter before watering.
They enjoy high humidity and indirect light.
Spider plant (Chlorophytum)
The only thing better than one spider plant? Multiple spider plants! This fast-growing plant produces offspring that can be repotted and given as gifts or used to further decorate your home.
Pros
They remove harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, from the air.
They can survive in rooms of varying temperatures, between 55 and 80 degrees.
Cons
Like other houseplants, spider plants may be dangerous to cats if ingested.
Care
They must be planted in well-draining soil, and be allowed to dry out between waterings to avoid root rot.
Prefers bright, indirect light; will flower in the spring with increased sunlight.
Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
Every homeowner would love a “money plant” in their home. Unfortunately, this plant doesn’t actually grow money — it grows jade. Also known as the money plant, friendship tree, lucky plant, or money tree, jade is a slow-growing tree that flourishes in a multitude of different environments.
Pros
Jade is known for its ability to improve indoor air quality, which, in turn, improves a person’s health.
Jade plants thrive in bright, direct sunlight.
Cons
Overwatering jade can cause it to develop oedema, a disease where leaves develop dark black spots
Pests like aphids, whiteflies, and mites sometimes infest jade plants.
Care
Never let jade dry out completely. Water when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
Needs bright, direct light and to be kept above 55 degrees at all times.
Air plant (Tillandsia)
No plant lives up to its name quite like an air plant. If soil is too messy for you or you simply don’t want to be bothered with it, an air plant is the perfect choice. Able to live outside of soil, air plants only need to be left in water for a few hours every two weeks, or simply misted with water. There are over 650 varieties of these plants, so chances are you’ll find one you like!
Pros
Because they don’t need soil to grow, air plants can be hung in unique places, such as from the ceiling
They make beautiful gifts for children and those new to gardening.
Cons
Air plants are vulnerable to rot.
They’re also susceptible to dehydration if not watered at the right time.
Care
When grown indoors in dry air, submerge air plants in water for 2-3 hours every two weeks. Adapt as needed for different conditions and seasons. Mist when appropriate.
Prefers bright filtered light. Do not place directly in front of windows.
Aloe (Aloe barbadensis)
This popular succulent’s spiky leaves make it the perfect addition to any home. Its strong leaves look beautiful sitting on an office desk or bedside table.
Pros
The juice from aloe can be used to soothe minor cuts and burns.
Cons
If brought outside, its juicy leaves have been known to attract bugs.
Can cause nausea or indigestion when consumed by animals.
Care
Aloe thrives in indirect sunlight, making it a good plant for shady homes.
It only needs to be watered once every week or so.
I don’t know if you have noticed but houseplants are back in a BIG way! It’s true what they say about everything “old is new again”. The last time people were this plant crazy was back in the 70’s. This time around however, there is a new affection for cactus, succulents, and air plants. If you don’t believe me just do a quick search on Pinterest, where according to Garden Media’s 2019 Plant Trends Report, searches for indoor plants are up 90% compared to previous years. And at the top of that search list is “succulents”.
At the recent International Floriculture Expo – the largest floral B2B trade show in North America – in Miami Beach, this trend was obvious by the increased number of plant focused vendors. And these are not your mama’s old plants! Here are just a few of the fun, unique, and easy to care for plants that will be coming to a shop near soon! Or you can go to the plant collection at 1-800 Flowers.com, where you will find the latest varieties in unique containers to gift yourself or to send to a friend!
If you are super adventurous and want to take your plant collection to the next level, then hop on the “Plants as Art” bandwagon. Here’s a little inspiration from the Expo to get you started!
Even the lobby of the hotel that I was staying at during the Expo was beautifully decorated with “plants as art”!
And in response to all the buzz, around succulents and air plants in particular, the 1-800 Flowers retail location in Carle Place, NY held a Creative Workshop for their customers and friends. Each attendee made their own succulent garden and air plant drift wood sculpture. As you can see from the photos below that everyone had a great time while learning new skills and getting some tips from the pros at 1-800 Flowers!
If you’d like to attend a DIY class at 1-800 Flowers, click here – Creative Workshops – to learn about all upcoming events:
It’s time to start thinking about this year’s garden. Before you get too wrapped up in the plants and flowers that you’re going to grow outdoors, don’t forget you can also freshen up your home by growing your favorites houseplants indoors too.
We encourage you to make room for one, two, or even a few houseplants. Use this guide to determine which species is best for you depending on the amount of light your home receives.
Low light houseplants
1. ZZ plants
ZZ plants absolutely love low light conditions; you’d actually be surprised how little light they really need. They also don’t require too much maintenance, making them the perfect choice for homeowners who don’t have extra time on their hands — all you have to do is remember to water them occasionally (they thrive better in dry environments).
2. Snake plants
Like the ZZ plant, snake plants (sometimes referred to as “mother-in-law’s tongue”) are super easy to care for. Where light is concerned, they could basically survive in a place as dark as your closet, although we’re sure you’d want to be able to see yours! When choosing where to place a snake plant, just remember that they prefer rather dry conditions.
3. Orchids
While different orchid species require different amounts of light, Phalaenopsis, Oncidium, and Paphiopedilum are a few kinds that can tolerate low light conditions — just pair a low light environment with standard household temperatures, and you’re all set! Consider placing your orchids in a shaded southern- or eastern-facing window, and keep an eye on leaf color to determine if they’re receiving the amount of light they need (dark colors may indicate that they’re not getting enough).
Medium light houseplants
1. African violets
African violets are one of the most common types of indoor houseplants, and they’re a great option for homeowners who are looking to give a houseplant a try for the first time. That’s because they’re a great plant to experiment with. For optimal growth, African violets require evenly moist soil, average to warm temperatures, and fertilizer during each watering. But remember, don’t get any water on the plant’s leaves!
2. Begonias
If you’re looking to add some color to the inside of your home, choose begonias. Begonia plants are extremely colorful and unique in that they showcase different types of foliage. In order to thrive, begonias require evenly moist soil, light fertilization, and a nice average temperature, though at night they should be in a place where the temperature is warmer than 65 degrees.
3. Ficus
For those who are more advanced when it comes to planting and gardening, the ficus is a great choice for settings that experience medium light levels. Ficus plants typically do best when their soil is left to dry for a few days before watering again, and they prefer to grow in a place where the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees. However, don’t go too long in between each watering, since waiting could cause the plant’s leaves to fall.
Bright light houseplants
1. Zebra plants
Similar to the low light houseplant pothos, zebra plants can tolerate various lighting conditions; however, bright light is best. If you have a lot of natural light in your home but are new to gardening, choose this plant species — they’re very easy to care for and can even go a few weeks without watering.
2. Bonsai
Indoor bonsai typically require bright light to survive, with the best placement being somewhere that is exposed to sun in the morning and some shade in the afternoon. If you are struggling to find a place in your home that receives enough natural light, try using a grow light to create the environment that bonsai need.
3. Cacti
All cacti grow best under bright light conditions. A tip to remember with these plants: If you place them in a window that receives a great deal of sunlight, make sure you don’t open and close the window too often, as your cacti might get in the way and poke you.
All winter we look forward to having the chance to sit outside once again, lounging with a cool, refreshing drink in hand, surrounded by friends and family. But while each summer brings new opportunities, new memories, and new experiences, one thing stays the same: those pesky critters creeping up on us, biting us until we can’t take the itch any longer. Yep, you guessed it, we’re talking about mosquitoes.
While some bug spray may hold you over for a while during your time outdoors in the summer, we have something else that can be helpful in keeping these blood-sucking pests away — plants! Here are the top 10 mosquito-repelling plants that we recommend.
1. Marigolds
A citronella plant
Marigolds are known to give off a rather distinct smell that mosquitoes aren’t a fan of. You can either plant new seeds or grab a potted marigold from a nursery nearby. Either way, make sure you place your marigolds in the area where you and your guests will spend most of your time.
2. Citronella
If you usually keep a citronella candle on your deck or patio, you know how helpful it can be in deterring pests. In fact, citronella is known to be one of the most commonly used ingredients in various insect repellents. Instead of a candle, try using an actual citronella plant — either planted in the ground or placed in a pot — to keep mosquitos away.
3. Lavender
Lavender can be your biggest saving grace when it comes to keeping pests out of your garden. Other insects and rabbits, in addition to mosquitoes, are just a few creatures that tend to stay away from lavender plants. Although you might enjoy the smell of lavender, mosquitoes can’t stand it. For the best results in growing a lavender plant of your own, place it somewhere that receives full sun.
4. Petunias
Thanks to their licorice-like scent, petunias are the perfect choice if you’re looking to add some beauty to your garden and keep pests away. With their beautiful assortment of colors (choose from shades of pink, red, and purples), these flowers can quickly improve the aesthetics of your yard — so the fact that they also keep the critters away makes planting them a win-win!
5. Catmint
A part of the mint family, catmint (or catnip) can be found in both commercial plant form or as a weed. And though you may be deterred from choosing this plant due to its invasiveness, if you’re willing to put in the work to maintain one, you’ll be pleased with how few mosquitoes you see. A study by Iowa State University even showed that catmint is 10 times more effective at repelling insects than DEET!
6. Lemon balm
Like catmint, lemon balm is part of the mint family, and this plant does a great job at repelling mosquitoes. Also referred to as horsemint or beebalm, lemon balm is a great option for new gardeners, as it is relatively easy to grow and does well even in shady conditions — just make sure you have enough space to grow it!
7. Peppermint
A third plant in the mint family that can be extremely useful at repelling insects is peppermint. A lot of bugs, including mosquitos, are turned off by both the taste and smell of peppermint. However, even if you do get bit, your peppermint plant may actually be able to help you heal: When you rub the leaves on your skin, you can start to feel some relief from that terrible itch!
8. Scented geraniums
One of the more popular scents for repelling mosquitos is lemon, as it closely resembles the smell of citronella grass. These plants do best in sunny and dry climates, though you may be able to grow them even if you live in a region with a colder climate. A benefit to geraniums is that they grow quickly, so you can start your planting in the spring and take advantage of their repellent powers for the rest of the summer.
9. Basil
If you grow your own basil, you not only will help your yard stay mosquito free, but you’ll also provide yourself with a nice supply of this herb to use in the kitchen. Some recommendations to start with are lemon and cinnamon basil, but with so many varieties out there, it doesn’t hurt to try them all!
10. Rosemary
Rosemary is a natural mosquito-repelling plant that will work wonders in your yard. Keep an eye out for an increase in butterflies, too, if you use this particular plant, since although it works to repel mosquitoes, it’s also great at attracting other flying insects. Rosemary plants do particularly well in hot, dry climates, and they typically do best in containers.
Indoor plants are a delight, bringing beauty and life to our homes. You can enjoy an indoor garden year-round, whether you are a seasoned plant parent or a newbie to the gardening world, with easygoing, adaptable houseplants.
Here are 10 low-maintenance indoor plants that are sure to please if you give them just basic care — and will allow you to go away for a week and forget about them.
Aglaonema
The shiny, pointed leaves of the aglaonema come in a rich array of color combinations and patterns, including green, silver, pink, red, and white. It is treasured for its beauty and easy care, and has become a popular houseplant that will brighten any décor.
In general, aglaonemas need bright, indirect light, but the light-colored varieties will need more sun than the darker-leaved ones and can be set closer to a bright window — but never in direct sun. They also will appreciate warmth and being away from cold drafts. A standard potting mix should do fine for these plants, as long as it’s well draining and will retain some moisture. Water them only when the soil is dry an inch down from the top, since aglaonemas like moist soil that is not overly wet.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Air plants
These cute little plants, with their scaly, gray-green, curving leaves, have exploded in popularity and are seen everywhere plants are sold. They are unusual in that they require no soil to grow. In the wild, air plants grow on trees, their small roots used only to anchor them to the branches. They grow in dappled sunlight and get their water from rainfall and humidity in the air.
Set your air plants in medium-to-bright indirect light and water them once a week by letting them sit upside down in water for about an hour. Shake them off and let them drain before putting them back on their stand. Misting daily will also help keep them in tip-top shape.
Toxic to humans and pets? No.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a great plant for beginning gardeners because it requires very little care and its gray-green leaves have a quiet appeal. It needs bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can burn its sensitive leaves. Standard potting soil mixed with sand and perlite will do the trick and allow water to drain easily. Water your aloe only when the entire potting mix is dry, and allow the water to drain completely out of the pot.
In addition to its beauty as a houseplant, aloe’s thick, fleshy leaves hold a gel-like sap that can be harvested to ease sunburn and minor cuts and scrapes.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Lucky bamboo
Lucky bamboo gets its name from the upbeat symbolism of this plant in the Chinese tradition. It is sold as individual straight stalks or several stalks together in various curls, twists, or braids. The number of stalks growing together in a pot have different meanings. For example, two stalks represent love, three stalks mean happiness, wealth, and long life, and six stalks symbolize wealth and good luck.
Lucky bamboo is a very easy plant to care for. It can either be grown in water or a well-draining potting mix. If it’s grown in water, it’s good to use either distilled or rainwater since lucky bamboo is sensitive to the mineral salts in most tap water. If grown in soil, it needs to be evenly moist. Water only when the soil is dry down an inch from the top.
Toxic to humans and pets? Humans, no; pets, yes.
Orchids
Elegant, exotic orchids speak of luxury and beauty, but they are actually low-maintenance indoor plants. Give orchids as much bright, indirect light as possible, being careful to avoid direct contact with the sun’s rays, which could burn their leaves and flowers. They grow best in warm environments with about 40% to 70% humidity. This is best achieved by placing them in a warm, sunny room with some humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or with a pebble tray or humidifier that can give the humidity a boost. The best soil is a chunky potting mix that allows for air circulation around the roots and is specially formulated for orchids. Water your plant so that it runs through the pot and soaks the bark chunks, but don’t allow the roots to sit in water. Only water it again when the bark dries out.
Toxic to human and pets? No.
Peperomia
There are more than 1,000 species of peperomia in the peppercorn family — one of which, peperomia obtusifolia, or baby rubber plant, is the 2022 Plant of the Year — and many of them are popular as easy-care houseplants. Their thick, rubbery leaves come in a variety of delightful shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. In addition, some peperomias are trailing plants — plants that have long, trailing stems — and others are upright.
But in spite of their diverse looks, peperomias all need similar care. They thrive in bright to moderate indirect light, and average household temperatures and humidity. Peperomias are pretty forgiving plants, so it’s OK to water them only when their soil is dry.
Toxic to humans and pets? No.
Pothos
Beautiful, trailing pothos is a wonderful houseplant that can be grown successfully in most household environments. Its heart-shaped leaves display different amounts of variegation depending on the variety, and this will dictate how much indirect light it needs. The foliage with the most variegation of white, cream, or yellow will need brighter light, and, conversely, the greenest foliage will need the least light. Pro tip: Highly variegated pothos leaves will begin to revert to all green if they don’t get enough light. They will live happily in average household temperatures and humidity, and will need water when their soil is dry.
Toxic to humans and pets? Mildly.
Snake plant
The sword-like spires of the snake plant rising out of the soil make a bold statement in a room. Depending on the variety, the leaves can be striped, patterned, or solid colored, with shades of green, cream, or yellow. It is a favorite for home and office because of its hardiness, low-maintenance qualities, and striking appearance. It will grow in medium to low light and in average humidity, and it doesn’t like to be watered frequently. Only water your snake plant when the soil is dry, and make sure the water drains completely out of the pot since the roots are susceptible to fungal diseases.
Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.
Succulents
Succulents are arguably the easiest low-maintenance indoor plants to grow because of the minimum amount of care they require. They are not a single scientific group but rather encompass over 10,000 species of fleshy-leaved, drought-resistant plants native to dry, desert areas of all continents except Antarctica.
Succulents come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and patterns, and some will flower readily indoors. They need three basic things to grow successfully: the right soil, plenty of sun, and infrequent watering. A light, well-draining potting mix is essential to these plants’ survival. A commercial succulent mix works well, and you can also make your own by mixing half a standard potting mix with sand and perlite. Some will tolerate direct sunshine, while others will grow in a variety of light levels, but all succulents will grow happily in very bright, indirect light with a minimal amount of water.
Toxic to humans and pets? Most are not, but kalanchoe and euphorbia are.
ZZ plant
The stiff stems and leathery, compound leaves of the ZZ give the impression of a tough, resilient plant that is almost indestructible. In this case, the first impression is the right one, as the ZZ plant thrives on neglect and can live in a variety of conditions. It will grow in low light as well as bright, indirect light, although it tends to get leggy if the light is too dim. It will tolerate year-round household temperatures and humidity levels, and only wants to be watered when its soil is completely dry. Be sure the water drains out of the pot after watering. The ZZ plant is sensitive to overwatering and will develop root rot if its roots are allowed to sit in water.
