Have you just moved into a new home and are looking for ways to brighten it up and make it your own? Try mixing plants in with your home décor to not only add a stylish touch to any room, but also reap the many benefits that they provide. While it may surprise you, plants have been shown to cause several positive effects on human behavior. W.B. Homes has collected some of the most helpful traits about plants that you should keep in mind when decorating your house.
Clear the Air
As your elementary science classes once taught you, humans breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide. Well, plants work the opposite way during photosynthesis, making them a compatible living partner. It has been shown that plants can remove up to ten percent of the carbon dioxide in the air, making your breath richer with oxygen. Plants can also work to reduce the number of toxins that you breathe in by a large amount, up to 87 percent. This purifies the surrounding air, helping you stay healthier and removing potential irritants to your mouth and throat like dust and allergens.
Cheer Up
Plants have also been shown to boost people’s moods in a couple of different ways. While taking care of a plant may seem like a chore, studies show that nurturing a plant increases empathy and compassion in its caretaker. Gardening has also been accepted as a valid form of therapy, alleviating anxiety and stress, while boosting recovery time from injury and friendliness to others. Also, since flowers are often associated with positive life events, such as weddings and graduations, their presence acts as a mood booster to increase happiness.
Focus on Your Work
Along with the health and emotional benefits they provide, plants can also increase your productivity. Studies have shown that people completing work with plants in the same room have more focus, complete their work with better quality and accuracy, and are more creative. The presence of plants also boosts memory retention by up to 20 percent. If you work from home or have children with homework assignments, keeping plants nearby can help you and your family stay on task.
Proper Upkeep
You won’t be able to take advantage of all the benefits that plants provide if they are not properly maintained. Make sure you are aware of the needs of each plant before you find a spot for them. Indoor plants don’t necessarily need a lot of direct sunlight, so if you notice that the leaves are suddenly falling or getting spots, move them to a place away from too much exposure to the sun’s rays. Overwatering is also a common issue for owners who are eager to care for their plants, but don’t know the proper technique to water them. Instead of pouring water in the middle of the plant, water the plants from the bottom so the roots can suck up all of the moisture.
Spruce Up Your House
Starting from scratch while decorating your new home offers the perfect opportunity to incorporate some new changes in your décor. Including plants in your home will create a stylish flair to any room, while also making your air cleaner and making you less stressed and more positive. If you’re currently in the market for a new home, allow W.B. Homes to help you find the perfect one. Browse one of our available neighborhoods or home types, or hear from the happy homeowners that have recently made the move. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.