8 Benefits Of Plants In The Office

Reduced stress

Tension/Anxiety – 37% reduction

Depression/Dejection – 58% reduction

Anger/Hostility – 44% reduction

Fatigue – 38% reduction

Introducing plants to your working environment reduces stress. In a study conducted in 2010, significant reductions were recorded where plants were located in the office. Including;

Buildings and office environments appear more calming and simply a nicer place to be when plants are present. They are more interesting, colourful and relaxing. The effects aren’t just psychological either, physiological effects such as lowered blood pressure are also proven benefits of a greener office. Plants also enable us to perceive our surroundings better, we feel more comfortable and this, in turn, reduces stress.

Increased Productivity

Productivity is known to be improved in an environment were plants are present. Cognitive tasks, concentration and focus are all improved, therefore increasing productivity within the workforce.

In numerous studies conducted it has been found that fewer mistakes are made, tasks are completed faster and, in the case of computer workers, productivity increased by between 10%-15%.

The higher level of concentration can be attributed to the plants ability to reduce excess carbon dioxide in the air.

Reduce Sickness And Absence

Introducing plants to an office environment has been reported to reduce absenteeism by up to 50%, and reduce minor illness by 30%. Reducing absence within the business not only maintains productivity, but will reduce the cost of absence year on year.

A Better Environment To Work In

Most will agree that an office with plants present is a nicer place to be. As we’re within this environment for a considerable time most days, it’s important that we should be comfortable.

Office plants not only improve office surroundings for employees, they also provide a more welcoming place for clients.

Cleaner Air To Breathe

1 plant per 3 employees improves air quality

CO2 can be reduced by 50%

By reducing the dry air caused by air conditioning and increasing humidity,

illnesses such as tickly coughs are much less common

With correct placement of plants, the need for air con can also be

reduced and the air kept at a higher humidity (up to 20%)

Dust, bacteria and mould are reduced

Man made toxins within an office created by plastics, paint, furniture,

carpets, and certain cleaning products that will be reduced significantly

Reduce Noise

One lesser known advantage of plants is their ability to reduce ambient noise within an office, as much as 5 decibels. Backgroundnoise, which could otherwise be distracting, is reduced allowing employees to concentrate on their work.

Increase Creativity

In one study, plants were seen to increase creativity by 15%. One theory suggests that plants being present invoke our ancient instincts that there’s food nearby (berries, fruit etc) and so we relax, become calmer, are happier and more creative.

You’ll Look Healthier!

It has been found that plants can reduce dry skin by 20%. This means we look healthier as well as feeling better!

Which Plants Do Best In An Office Environment?

Aloe

Spider plants

Cactus

Succulents

Ivy

Rubber plants

Peace lilies

Keeping plants in an office environment requires some forethought due to certain environmental conditions such as air conditioning, periods where the office is empty etc.

Some plants which will thrive include: