The Green Oasis: How Office Plants Impact Employees, Performance, and the Workplace Environment

A comprehensive article on Plants in office, how they impact on employees, Performance and environment of office. Add all benefits and what types of plants to choose, what to consider while choosing plants, should hire contractor, or manage locally. List of best plants

In the modern workplace, the importance of office plants cannot be overstated. These living, breathing organisms bring a touch of nature indoors and offer a wide range of benefits for both employees and the overall office environment. In this article, we will explore the numerous advantages of incorporating plants into the office, consider factors to keep in mind while choosing the right plants, and discuss whether hiring a contractor or managing them locally is the best approach. Additionally, we’ll provide a list of some of the best office plants to consider.

The Benefits of Office Plants:

1. Improved Air Quality: Office plants act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They can also help remove pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, leading to cleaner and fresher air in the workplace.
2. Enhanced Well-being and Productivity: Research has shown that the presence of plants in the office can reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue among employees. This improved mental well-being often translates into higher productivity and creativity.
3. Noise Reduction: Certain plants have the ability to absorb and dampen sound, creating a quieter and more focused working environment.
4. Increased Humidity: Plants release moisture through a process called transpiration, which can help combat the dryness commonly found in office spaces due to air conditioning. This can alleviate issues like dry skin and respiratory discomfort.
5. Aesthetically Pleasing: Office plants add a touch of greenery and aesthetic appeal to the workspace, making it more inviting and pleasant.

Choosing the Right Office Plants:

When selecting office plants, consider the following factors:

1. Lighting Conditions: Different plants have varying light requirements. Assess the available natural light in your office space and choose plants that thrive in those conditions. Common low-light options include snake plants and pothos, while succulents and cacti prefer bright, indirect light.
2. Maintenance Level: Be honest about your team’s ability to care for plants. Some require minimal attention, while others need regular watering, pruning, and fertilizing. Choose plants that align with your maintenance capabilities.
3. Space Constraints: Evaluate the available space for plants. Larger offices may accommodate floor plants like ficus or peace lilies, while smaller spaces may benefit from desktop options such as succulents or air plants.
4. Allergies: Be mindful of any employee allergies to certain types of plants, such as pollen-producing varieties.

Contractor vs. Local Management:

Whether to hire a contractor for plant care or manage them locally depends on the size and complexity of your office space, the number of plants, and your team’s expertise.

1. Contractor:
   • Ideal for large offices with extensive plant installations.
   • Professional contractors can offer expertise in plant selection, maintenance, and pest control.
   • Regular maintenance schedules can be established, ensuring plants thrive.
2. Local Management:
   • Suitable for smaller offices with a limited number of plants.
   • Employees can take responsibility for plant care as a team-building activity.
   • Cost-effective for low-maintenance plants.

List of Best Office Plants:

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
5. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
7. Succulents (Various species)
8. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
9. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
10. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Conclusion:

Office plants offer numerous benefits to employees, workplace performance, and the office environment. Choosing the right plants, considering factors like lighting and maintenance, and deciding between a contractor or local management are crucial decisions. By carefully integrating plants into the office, you can create a more vibrant, healthier, and productive workspace for your team.