This was written for my Writing for Multimedia & the Web class in Fall 2020. It is a content marketing blog post for a hypothetical plant company.

Houseplants’ Impact on Mental Health

Millennials have long been known as industry killers. From diamonds to Hooters, millennials have been blamed for their drops in revenue. However, younger generations deserve credit for the boom in an unexpected industry—  plants. The $1.7 billion industry has increased by 50% in the past few years alone. Thanks to Gen Y and Gen Z, houseplants have influenced interior design trends, social media, and nursery and home improvement store stock.

Aside from their collections of plants, Millennials and Gen-Zers have something else in common—declining mental health. According to a Blue Cross Blue Shield report, millennials and teens are, respectively, 47% and 63% more likely to be diagnosed with depression than other generations. 

Luckily, plants can do a lot for your mental health. 

How do plants improve mental health? 

In the literal sense of the word, plants bring life into a space. Studies have linked  houseplants to reduced stress, higher pain tolerance, and increased productivity. 

Other traits involved in taking care of plants also help improve mental health. Opening blinds and windows for plants increase natural light in areas of your home. Increased amounts of sunlight boost natural production of serotonin. Relying more on natural light, as opposed to artificial light, also increases melatonin levels. This results in a more stable and efficient circadian rhythm, causing better psychological function, hormone release and timing, and blood pressure regulation.

Houseplants also give you something to take care of. While pets can be a responsibility and commitment you’re not ready for, plants can be low-maintenance, easily accessible, and affordable. Results can be seen fast and provide relatively quick gratification.

 For the past three decades, people aged 20-34 have been more likely to live in cities and urban areas. This disconnect from nature and isn’t good for mental health either. A recent study found that access to green space in cities resulted in a 63% decrease in self-reported poor mental health among participants. Another study found that interacting with plants reduces stress and boosts creativity. 

What types of plants help mental health?

While houseplants, in general, improve your mental health, there are some characteristics to look for to help you get the biggest bloom for your buck.

• Leaves– Plants with large leaves are more likely to improve air quality the most. Lower concentrations of indoor air pollutants make you feel better physically and mentally. Plants with larger leaves instantly provide an opportunity for a significant increase in green space in your home. 
• Low- maintenance plants– If you are already struggling with mental health, the last thing you want to worry about is a finicky or sensitive plant. Look for plants that require enough maintenance to keep you interested, but not too much that you could easily become overwhelmed. 
• High-light/ medium-light plants–Choose plants that require sunlight. This will encourage you to open blinds and windows, allowing you to reap the benefits of natural light as well. Save low-light plants for secondary additions to areas of your home with little natural light. 
• Flowers–Plants that bloom can add color and happy energy into a space. Flowers lower anxiety and depression and improve memory, concentration, and creativity. Flowers can come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so there are options to fit your preferences. 
• Plants with herbal or medicinal uses–Plants with other benefits are great! Plants that can be used in cooking or for natural remedies are great to have on hand. Reaping physical benefits from plants you grow yourself boosts morale significantly. 

12 Plants to improve your mental health

1. European Fan Palm 

Chamaerops humilis

This palm likes lots of light, moist, well-drained soil of whatever texture, and is non-toxic to cats and dogs.

2. Chinese Evergreen

Aglaonema

This classic houseplant prefers indirect sunlight away from drafts, stable temperatures in the low 70s, and moderate watering. Biting or chewing a Chinese Evergreen is toxic to pets.  

3. Rubber Plants

Ficus elastica

Rubber Plants love bright, indirect sunlight, misted leaves, and a varied watering schedule dependent on the season. Variations of rubber plants (such as Ficus benjamina can be toxic to pets).

4. Kentia Palm

Howea forsteriana

When grown inside, it’s very adaptable to a range of light, soil composition, and water. Kentia Palms are on-toxic to cats and dogs.

5. Anita Dracaena

Dracaena reflexa

Anita Dracaenas are very tolerant of their growing conditions. They prefer well-draining soil, direct sunlight, and infrequent watering. However, they can be toxic to cats and dogs.

6. Dracaena

Dracaena frangrans

This Dracaena likes moist soil, regular fertilization, and bright, indirect light. They are also toxic to cats and dogs.

7. Kimberly Queen Fern

Nephrolepis obliterata

These ferns enjoy medium light and humidity, but can be sensitive to watering. They’re safe for cats and dogs.

8. Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemum morifolium

These flowers work in most soil types with constant, well-drained, moisture and lots of sun. Chrysanthemums can be mildly toxic to dogs and very toxic to cats.

9. False Shamrock

Oxalis triangularis

False Shamrocks enjoy bright, indirect sunlight and watering every 1-2 weeks. They can be irritating to pets if consumed. 

10. Lavender

Lavandula

Lavender thrives in bright, direct sunlight with drier soil that isn’t too acidic. While lavender extracts are pet-safe, the ingestion of the plant is toxic to cats and dogs. 

11. Gerbera Daisy

Gerbera jamesonii

Daisies are fun to grow from seeds with lots of sun in sandy, but well-fertilized, soil watered in the morning. They are non-toxic to pets.

12. Chamomile

Chamaemelum nobile

Chamomile likes cool temperatures, dry soil, and areas that experience both sun and shade. Like lavender, chamomile extracts are pet-safe, but the plant itself is toxic to cats and dogs. 

8 tips for taking care of houseplants

1. Do some research– Look up what your plant needs. Plants require different amounts of water, sunlight, fertilizer, and soil types. Knowing exactly what your plant needs goes a long way in keeping it healthy and alive. 
2. Create a routine– Having a schedule of taking care of your plants is essential. A routine helps you keep track of watering and sunlight exposure and makes sure you regularly check-in on your plants. 
3. Listen to your plants– Look for signs of over/under watering, too much/not enough light, pests, and diseases. If your plant starts to look unhealthy, do some research on what might be causing it. 
4. Keep them clean– plants, especially ones with large leaves, can get dusty. Residue on the plants can interfere with photosynthesis if it gets bad enough and negates some of your plants’ benefits. 
5. Use the right pots– Pots have the potential to make or break plants. Pots that are too big can hold too much water. Small pots don’t allow enough room for roots to grow properly. Poor draining can drown your plants. Some plants can also attach their roots to pots if they’re the wrong material. Make sure you choose the right pots for your plants.

Overall, house plants can do wonders for your mental health. They encourage self-care habits and can offer a hobby you enjoy. Join the house plant community, and buy a plant that works for you! Watch out– it’s easier to turn your living room into a jungle than you might think!