How to choose plants and flowers for office environments!

Why is it that certain plants and flowers flourish in office environments and others don’t, and given the benefits of live plants, why are they not seen more in office environments?

Anyone who keeps green foliage or blooming plants knows that indoor plants can brighten any environment and create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for those who exist in it.  Plants and flowers can also remove common air pollutants and toxins from interior spaces and add oxygen to stale air, and research shows that interior plants also help improve people’s general health and well being.  For example, you are more likely to develop a cold or catch the flu when the humidity in your office is too low, and you are also more vulnerable to disease and illness if the humidity is too high.  Indoor office plants actually stabilize the humidity, making the environment healthier.  Living things generally gives us a close association with nature and inspire us, and a significant value of live plants is just that they bring the natural environment into enclosed spaces.  Research has proven that live plants and flowers make us more productive employees and put us in delightful moods. 

Many different types of green or blooming plants can be used for office environments to add beauty and enjoyment.  However, for some, just getting live plants to live for the long term in their office is a challenge.  If this is how you feel, try to consider these steps before choosing plants for your office environment or building:

1. Lighting – Assess the lighting in your office.  Different varieties of flowers and plants need different amounts of light, and there is a difference between natural and artificial light. 
2. Space – Determine how much desk and floor space is available for plants in your office, as this will tell you how large you can go.  Also, determine the traffic patterns.
3. Time – Decide how much time you will be able to devote to care for the plants during or after work hours.  Some plants require more maintenance than others.
4. Purpose – Most office plants brighten up the environment.  However, some plants can also serve a specific purpose as dividers, to communicate a company or building image, or to remove airborne particles or carbon dioxide.
5. Budget – Some plants are more expensive than others, but may be worth the cost long term. 
6. Research – There are a world of choices out there.  Ask a professional to help to suggest some plants that may work in your particular office environment or do some Internet research.  Try to go for variety.  A reception desk or meeting room decorated with colorful, live plants, can promote a more casual and friendly environment, putting clients at ease.  However, green foliage may work better in a cubicle landscape.  Also, make sure you don’t get a plant that aggravates allergies.

Southern Botanical, Dallas, TX can help with your office plants.  Our staff understands the cultural needs of plants and can supply you with proper plant specifications, environmental planning for your office, and layout and design to ensure desired results.  Contact us for a free consultation!