Plants breed happiness

Indoor plant expert Anne Briggs, marketing & communications manager at Ambius Indoor Plants in Alstonville, NSW, explained: “People want to be surrounded by nature. They are much happier, less anxious and healthier if they have some form of nature close to them.

“So it’s really important to have plants in the home. Wherever there are people, you need plants.”

The concept is called ‘biophilia’. It is the need to connect with nature.

“Basically, it goes back to caveman times – you need to have some nature there,” added Briggs.

With today’s trends of apartment-style living and air conditioning units in the home, the need for plants is even greater.

“Increasingly, people are living in enclosed spaces at home,” said Briggs. “These are the places where you need to consider having plants.”

But plants also serve an important role in cleaning the air. Plants can remove up to 80% of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from the air in your home.

To achieve this, you don’t need to set up a forest in your home. “You don’t need loads of plants,” explained Briggs. “Some people like a jungle or big statement plants, but one plant on its own will have a positive impact on a room.”

What if you want to bring a little greenery into your home but don’t have the greenest thumb around?

A great place to start is with succulents. “Sansevieria, more commonly known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue, is a succulent and is a popular choice,” Briggs said. “They are very hard to kill – they are tough and they love neglect.

Other good options for plants that are easy to care for include bromeliads, peace lilies and the Chinese evergreen.

Briggs added: “I also love orchids. They will flower for up to two months and are works of art.” 

Anne Briggs - 

Jody Hammond - jody@writeaway.com.au