August is Back to School month here in central Florida and one of the first items on a teacher’s to do list is to prepare their new classroom to be lived in for the next 10 months. Each teacher has their own ideas on how to create a homey feel inside the classroom, but every classroom should include plants. There are multiple health benefits to having fresh plants and flowers in learning environments, but the lack of natural light and inability to water daily can make choosing plants difficult. There are six plants that can really thrive in indoor environments.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are excellent air purifiers and are known for removing toxins from the air. They are also non-toxic and thrive in indirect light. Their minimal watering needs also make them easy to maintain.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Snake plants are highly effective at improving indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and releasing oxygen. They are also very hardy and can withstand neglect. They prefer indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions and watering is only needed occasionally, making them ideal for busy classrooms.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos plants are known for their air-purifying qualities and their ability to thrive in various lighting conditions. They are also non-toxic and safe for classroom environments. They grow well in low to bright indirect light and require infrequent watering. Their trailing vines can add a beautiful green aesthetic to the classroom, and measuring the vine growth can be a great math activity for younger learners.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are effective at filtering indoor air and adding humidity. They produce beautiful white flowers, adding a touch of elegance to the classroom. They prefer low to moderate light and need regular watering. Their leaves will droop when they need water, providing a clear signal for care.
5. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera plants are easy to care for and can be used to teach students about the medicinal properties of plants. They also help with air purification. They require bright, indirect sunlight and minimal watering, allowing them to thrive with little attention.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber plants are great for improving air quality and can grow quite large, making a significant visual impact in the classroom. They prefer bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Their large, shiny leaves are easy to clean and maintain.
These varieties are all resilient, low-maintenance, and safe for children. Their ability to improve air quality and increase oxygen levels enhances learning and concentration, increases productivity and creativity, and promotes an improvement in mental health and well-being over classrooms that don’t have plants. There are also multiple opportunities for hands-on learning in math and science as well as responsibility and nurturing skills. Flowers provide similar benefits, though often require more care. They can still be used to switch up the décor by incorporating our bouquet of the month <link>into the greenery. Looking for something specific? Click here to design your own custom arrangement to kick off the year.
