Water, light, and love.

Houseplants have taken social media by storm. Why? They make people feel good.

Houseplants provide many scientifically proven benefits. First, and probably the most well-known fact about houseplants, they improve air quality. The process of cleansing the air through green plants is called Air Phytoremediation technologies. In simple terms, this process removes pollutants from contaminated air. In the 1980s, NASA conducted research on ways to purify air in spacecrafts and they found that houseplants reduced airborne compounds significantly.

Secondly, plants have the ability to improve productivity. In a study done in 1996 published in the Journal of Environmental Horticultural, students working in a computer lab with plants worked 12 percent faster than those in the lab without plants.

Another benefit, working with plants can be therapeutic. According to the World Health Organization, COVID has impacted mental health in more ways than one. People are dealing with unemployment, loss of loved ones, social isolation, and so much more. And while telemedicine and teletherapy have stepped in to somewhat bridge the gap that the pandemic has created, many are still fighting anxiety and depression. In Manchester, England, medical professionals have started “prescribing” potted plants as treatment for these depression and anxiety symptoms. According to Our Healthier Manchester, plants help fight loneliness.

Finally, plants can reduce stress. Having plants around creates a feeling of natural calmness and the act of taking care of the plants has been linked to lowered stress responses.

The list of plants that provide all of these benefits is endless. However, for those who are just starting their plant journey, here are five of the easiest houseplants to enjoy.

All of these options are perfect for an apartment, a dorm, or a home office. Really, they are perfect for wherever they end up living.

1.) Palms – The perfect first plant. This one can be forgot about for awhile, and as long as it’s not overwatered, there’s no killing this plant. It’s wonderful in any room and needs to be watered when the top two inches of the soil feel dry.

2.) Snake Plant – Happy in most places, including low light areas. As another very low-maintenance plant, the Snake Plant also only needs water when the soil feels dry. Snake Plants add tall, sword-shaped happiness to any room.

3.) Aloe Plant – This is one of the handiest plants to have around. Sun burns can be soothed instantly by removing one of the leaves and using the gel directly on the burn. Aloes need water when the top two inches of the soil feels dry.

4.) Monstera – These plants come in all shapes and sizes. They are deemed as one of the easiest houseplants ever. They are typically slow growing and need water when the top of the soil feels dry.

5.) Peace Lily – Happy with bright light and only needs water when the soil feels dry to the touch. The leaves may start to droop when it needs water, but once replenished, the leaves will spring right back up.

With so many benefits, everyone needs a couple houseplants. Or 20 or 30.

Kaitlyn Verser, Senior Communication Major from Chickasha, OK.