By Rhiannon Dempster

 

As city-dwellers, we have been found to spend more than 90% of our time indoors. We are constantly bombarded with warnings about pollution, yet the toxins that we omit inside our own homes may be even more harmful.

 

Enter the houseplant. Not only does a little indoor greenery effectively liven and brighten up any space, but it has also proven beneficial for mental and physical wellbeing.

 

A study by Margaret Burchett at the University of Technology Sydney found that "the potted-plant microcosm can significantly improve many aspects of indoor environmental quality (IEQ), providing cleaner air and lower stress levels.” The study measured psychological wellbeing and found an almost 40% reduction in tension and fatigue amongst participants following regular plant presence (Burchett 2010).

 

This information is great in theory. So I have weeded the World Wide Web in search of the plants most suited to surviving indoors, all requiring very little care and maintenance.

 

Edible Wallpaper in the Kitchen (Herbs)

Bring your herbs into the kitchen and create a vertical garden on a spare wall. It will not only create a colourful piece of decor but also save time and money. Say goodbye to the overpriced recipe-sized herb collections at the supermarket! Herbs require some sunlight and regular watering so keep a spray bottle handy to give them a spritz whenever the soil is dry.

 

Bring the Family into the Bedroom (Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)

I’m not sure the bedroom is where you would really want your mother-in-law’s tongue, but this plant is very sturdy and apparently almost impossible to kill (challenge accepted?). It requires very little light or watering and will flourish if not exposed to an excessive amount of cold air. Maintaining a plant in your bedroom will ensure the very best night’s sleep, forget spending hundreds of dollars on an air purifier.

 

An Almost Ever-Lasting Bouquet in the Living Room (Orchids)

Your orchid will thrive in a sunny living area, preferably near a window. The flower is available in several bright colours so you are guaranteed to find one to match your decor. Water it at least once a week to maintain a terrific centrepiece for months. But be warned – if you over-do the TLC your orchid will die.

 

Create a Tropical Oasis in the Bathroom (Ferns)

Your humidity-loving ferns will thrive in the bathroom with early morning light and regular moisture. The leafy greens will turn your bathroom into an exotic pamper zone and you will always look forward to entering your very own day spa. With regular trimming you can create a polished look, or alternatively go for an overgrown jungle feel.

 

Which plants do you have indoors? How hard are they to look after on a scale of one to ‘The Little Shop of Horrors’?