In recent years, indoor gardening has blossomed into a popular phenomenon. It makes sense as gardening in general is still one of the most favorite hobbies in the U.S. especially among millennials. And while not every plant enthusiast has outdoor space they can till, everybody has a windowsill for a geranium plant or a kitchen countertop corner for a pot of chives.
A boost in sales of potted plants, container gardens, and growing kits like hydroponic AeroGardens and mini-ecosystem terrariums demonstrates that houseplants these days are more than mere décor. For many of us, they are cherished companions that energize our living spaces and reward us with positive effects on our health and mood.
But what about keeping plants in the bedroom? It was once thought that having flowers and greenery in the same room where you sleep wasn’t advisable, as plants do not photosynthesize in the dark, and will release carbon dioxide (CO2) into the air. While this is true, science proves that the effect is minimal. In fact, a human sleeping partner produces significantly more carbon dioxide than any houseplant.
Greening up your sleeping areas with certain living plants is actually quite beneficial both visually and health-wise for body and soul. Consider nurturing these lush bedroom-mates for the unique properties they provide:
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
These beautiful glossy-leaved plants do well in both high- and low-light situations. They also help purify the air and produce white flower-like spathes. Peace lilies are especially good at absorbing mold, preventing mold and mildew from forming on window frames or any area in your bedroom that is susceptible to damp conditions.
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Ideal for partial to full shade, parlor palms thrive in low-light environments. Their graceful, arching branches add an exotic touch to the room, as well as remove indoor air pollutants and increase the humidity of a dry environment.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Train these hardy, slow-growing ivy vines across a trellis or hoop to create living art or let them cascade naturally. They tolerate low light and require minimal watering.
Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
This elegant plant with shiny green leaves and gorgeous white blooms is effective in inducing deep sleep. A study conducted in Germany showed the enchanting fragrance of this plant to be as effective as Valium in reducing anxiety and helping with sleep problems.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, snake plants create a dramatic accent as well as being excellent air purifiers. They’re low-maintenance and don’t drop messy leaves.
Aloe Vera (Aloe vera)
One of the easiest plants to care for is also one of the few plants that continue respiration throughout the night, giving out oxygen. Aloes also rid the air of benzene, which is a harmful toxin commonly found in household cleaning products and paint. The gel formed in aloe stems is also a naturally effective salve used to treat skin burns.
Roses
If you prefer having fresh cut flowers in the bedroom, the appearance and fragrance of a bouquet of roses, like the heavily scented damask or English rose types, are known to dissipate feelings of depression and gently induce sleep. Fresh branches of lavender achieve a similar effect. Both rose petals and lavender flowers can also be dried and used in room-infusing potpourris.
Photos (from top): Header, elements.envato.com; Peace lily, gardeningknowhow.com; Parlor palm, kingsgardencenter.com, English ivy, ugaoo.com; Gardenia, gardenia.net; Snake plant, ikea.com; Aloe vera, medium.com; Roses, calyxflowers.com.
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