Greenify Your Office

So you've read all about the benefits of having plants in the office and now it's time to do something about it.

Greening up your office doesn't have to be difficult, time-consuming, or expensive. Simply buy a few plants and look after them yourself!

And before you shout "but I'm a plant killer" while waving your black thumbs at us, check out The Indoor Plant Co’s 10 tips for office plant care. 

1. Get tough plants. Thirsty ferns will go to plant heaven fast if you often forget to water, but cast iron plants, dragon trees, and kentia palms are beautiful and hard to kill.
2. Provide the right pot or planter. Succulents don't need self-watering pots, but these pots with their own water reservoirs can be good for peace lilies and ferns. Complicated watering systems, such as those used with some green walls, will eventually need maintenance, so opt for simplicity.
3. Find the right position. Maidenhair ferns don't belong in north-facing windows and snake plants, while tolerant of most conditions, can't live in the dark. 
4. Appoint a "designated waterer". We've seen office plants rot and die because two people were watering them, both thinking it was their job.
5. Put your plants on a diet. Moderate doses of slow-release indoor plant food (read the instructions) are all that's required.
6. Moth orchids and peace lilies bloom for months and are a great alternative to cut flowers. With a little basic care, they may even flower again next year.
7. Give your plant babies a holiday if they are struggling. Sick plants may simply need a few weeks outdoors in warm weather (check light requirements) to soak up a little extra sunlight, but don't leave indoor plants in hot summer sun. A shady spot that gets a little morning sun is often best.
8. All living things die eventually. Replacing a plant that's enhanced your quality of life for years is better than not having plants at all.
9. Safety first. Wear gloves if you have to trim plants and don't eat the foliage, no matter how much you've had to drink at the office Christmas party.
10. Ask Google. There's plenty of good plant care information online and it's usually obvious which info sites know their stuff.

And don't forget to smile. Air quality, mood, and productivity are all better with some nice plants around.