Adding plants inside or outside of your apartment is a great renter-friendly way to spruce up your space. From succulents to olive trees, there’s a perfect houseplant for everyone. While houseplants are a great piece of decor, many provide more benefits to you than you may think. Did you know certain plants could cool down a room by up to 10 degrees? Or, did you know placing certain plants on your patio can repel mosquitos and other pesky bugs? We’re revealing everything you need to know before purchasing plants for your apartment.
What benefits can plants bring to me and my apartment?
Temperature
Certain plants have the ability to cool down a room by up to ten degrees. This can be a game changer for those long hot summers we have in the South. Aloe Vera, Snake Plants, and Peace Lilies can all help to cool down a room.
Moisture wicking abilities
Humid spaces can lead to major problems like mold. Smaller apartment bathrooms are more likely to become humid due to a lack of ventilation. Boston Fern, Bird’s Nest Fern, and ZZ plants can all absorb moisture. These plants are all pretty low-maintenance and thrive in humid spaces like bathrooms.
Ingredients and garnishes
Fresh herbs make the best ingredients and garnishes for so many classic dishes. Basil is great in salads, Italian dishes, and even drinks. Cilantro is a staple for popular Mexican dishes like guacamole and tacos. Mint is amazing in drinks and desserts. Growing these ingredients yourself is easy, saves you money, and is a great way to add some greenery to your patio or balcony.
Mosquito repelling
Nothing is worse than pesky mosquitos invading your patio or balcony. Plants such as Citronella, Lavender, Basil, and Marigolds are all able to repel mosquitos due to their natural scents and leaves.
Decor
While this may seem obvious, plants make exceptional pieces of decor. Need a centerpiece for your dining room table? Add a Peace Lily or Orchid. Need something to put in the corner of a room? Get an Olive Tree or Snake Plant. The possibilities are endless!
Before purchasing plants for my apartment, what else should I consider?
Pets or Kids
Did you know that some plants are toxic to cats, dogs, and people? Be sure to always do your research before bringing any plants or flowers home to protect your furry friends and your children. The most common plants toxic to animals include Aloe Vera, Amaryllis, and Poinsettia. Click here for more information.
Your outdoor space
Before adding plants to your balcony, patio, or front porch, do some research first. Pay attention to how much sun the space gets. Certain plants thrive in sunny spaces, while others prefer the shade. If your patio is in the shade at some points and in the sun at other times, herbs and vegetables are both great options.
Maintenance
Certain plants require more love and care than others. It’s important to keep this in mind when deciding which plants to purchase for your apartment. Do you travel a lot or have a hectic lifestyle? If so, plants such as Aloe Vera, Pothos, and Corn Plants don’t need to be watered that often and all make great additions to a space.
Size
Before purchasing a plant, it’s important to consider sizing. Some plants remain around the same size, while some can triple, or even more, in size. It’s also a good idea to decide where you’ll put the plant before buying it. For example, if it’s going to be a centerpiece on a table, you probably want something that won’t grow too much. But, if it’s just going in the corner of a room for decor, it’s okay if it grows a bit.
Where can I purchase plants for my apartment?
Home Depot and Lowes are typically the most popular places to purchase plants. You could also do a quick Google search to find the best nurseries near you. With busy schedules, we know it’s hard to set aside the time to go shopping. Did you know you can order live plants from Amazon and have them shipped right to your door?
We hope this information helps you pick out the perfect plants for you and your apartment!
