National Indoor Plant Week, celebrated during the third full week of September (the 16^th-20^th) is an opportunity to recognize the importance of bringing nature into our built environments. This annual celebration is an opportunity to highlight the numerous benefits of incorporating indoor plants into our homes, offices, and other indoor spaces.

The Importance of Indoor Plants

Indoor plants are more than just decorative elements; they play a crucial role in improving our overall well-being and the quality of our indoor environments through a variety of ways:

Air Purification

One of the most significant benefits of indoor plants is their ability to purify the air. NASA research has shown that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, and plants can effectively remove harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde and toluene released into the air from paint, upholstery, and carpets. This natural air-cleaning ability contributes to healthier living and working spaces.

Mental Health and Well-being

Studies have consistently shown that indoor plants can have a positive impact on our mental health:

• Stress Reduction: The presence of plants in our indoor environments has been linked to reduced stress levels and increased feelings of relaxation.
• Improved Mood: Indoor greenery can brighten up spaces, especially during long, gray, Ohio winters, leading to improved mood and overall well-being.
• Enhanced Cognitive Function: Research indicates that plants can boost our learning abilities by increasing memory, concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Physical Health Benefits

Indoor plants contribute to our physical health in several ways:

• Reduced Illness: People with plants in their work environments tend to use fewer sick days and experience fewer headaches, sore throats, and coughs.
• Reduced blood pressure and heart rates: Studies have demonstrated that when people have access to nature, they experience lower heart rates and lower blood pressure levels, reducing stress on their cardiovascular system.
• Noise Reduction: Plants can help reduce noise levels in indoor spaces, reducing stimuli and creating a more peaceful environment.

Economic Benefits for Employers

Incorporating indoor plants into the workplace can lead to significant economic benefits for employers and business owners:

• Increased Productivity:  Studies have shown that having plants in office environments can increase productivity and creativity among employees. This boost in output can directly translate to improved business performance and profitability.
• Reduced Absenteeism:  With the health benefits provided by indoor plants, employers may see a decrease in employee absenteeism. This can lead to substantial cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
• Enhanced Workplace Satisfaction: Plants make work environments beautiful, which can increase employee satisfaction and retention rates. This, in turn, can reduce recruitment and training costs associated with employee turnover.

Ways You Can Celebrate National Indoor Plant Week

Want to celebrate National Indoor Plant Week? Consider the following activities:

• Pick up a new plant or two for your home or office space (and support your favorite local plant store at the same time!) or gift one to a friend (snake plants or ZZs are perfect for those of us with “black thumbs!”).
• Ask your employer/office manager about bringing an indoor plant program (or plant wall!) into your workspace.  Companies like Oakland Green Interiors will even provide maintenance and care, so all you need to do is enjoy the benefits of having plants in your space!

By embracing indoor plants and recognizing their importance, we create healthier, more productive, and more enjoyable indoor environments. National Indoor Plant Week serves as a reminder of the vital role that nature plays in our built spaces and encourages us to bring more nature into our daily lives.