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Adding plants to your home office isn’t just about looks... it’s about how you feel when you’re working.
"If you're giving your space a refresh, you can’t go wrong incorporating biophilic design principles," shares Justin Hancock, a horticulturist at Costa Farms. "I always try to keep [plants] visible from my desk because there are many scientific studies that point to how they can help improve our memory, creativity, and problem-solving skills."
If you don't believe it, try it. A little greenery can lift your mood, clean the air, and make the space feel more grounded.
And, FWIW, you don’t need to be a plant expert or have floor-to-ceiling windows to get it right.
With a few smart choices and low-effort routines, you can turn your desk or corner nook into a refreshing spot that helps you focus and breathe easier.
Start Small, Think Easy
If your workspace is tight, begin with one or two easy-care plants. A small pothos trailing off a shelf or a compact snake plant on your desk can make a big difference.
These types don’t demand much. Fair warning: once you see how they change the mood of the room, you might find yourself wanting more.
The goal is to start where you are and let your setup grow at a comfortable pace.
Match the Plant to the Light
Light is everything when it comes to keeping plants happy. Some offices get full sun for part of the day, while others rely on indirect light or even lamps. Pay attention to what your space naturally offers before you buy.
In our sunny office, Pilea Peperomioides and fiddle leaf figs thrive next to the windows.
Some folks overlook the addition of greenery because they work in darker rooms or spaces with shaded windows. When it comes to outfitting a space for north-facing windows, the going gets tough. Interior designer Magda Callery, founder of Style by Magda notes that north-facing windows “are like the polite guest at a dinner party. They do not bring drama, but they also do not bring much sunshine.”
Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in shade. Callery recommends a few go-to options:
- Snake plants: We have these in every corner of our house. They're sturdy and forgiving. While they're small, they're perfect for a side table, and when they're big they can occupy an entire corner.
- ZZ plants: These have become really popular in recent years. They have glossy leaves, and they tolerate spaces with almost no daylight.
- Pothos: We love that these trailing plants grow fast even in indirect light. Be prepared to help them trellis in your space, because they love to hang.
Pick the Right Planters
"If you are tired of playing the daily guessing game of ‘did I water or drown my plant,’ the planter you choose matters," notes Callery.
Drainage holes are non-negotiable; without them, roots can rot quickly.
She suggests ceramic or glazed pots to keep soil from turning soggy while holding in just enough moisture. Self-watering planters, she adds, are "like a built-in butler for your plants, discreetly refilling them as needed while you get on with life."
Mix Plant Textures and Heights
Visual balance matters in small spaces. Combine tall, upright plants like dracaenas or fiddle leaf figs with softer, trailing varieties such as ivy or philodendron.
This variation gives your space depth and a natural flow without cluttering your work area.
Think about how your plants interact with each other—just like décor pieces, they work best when there’s contrast in color and shape.
Make Your Plants Part of Your Routine
The secret to plant care isn’t just watering... it’s noticing.
- Set a reminder. Check moisture weekly instead of watering on a fixed schedule. Use a small spray bottle for humidity-loving plants like ferns, air plants, or peace lilies.
- Dust your plants. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and let them breathe. This is an act of zen if you're on yet-another Zoom call.
- Pivot! Turn pots a quarter turn every week or two for even growth.
Keep It Seasonal
Not every plant is meant to last forever indoors, and that’s okay. Some seasonal choices can still brighten your space for a while. Mums and ornamental kale are a great example of this. "[They] can look great indoors for a few weeks if you give them bright light, cool temperatures, and consistent moisture," notes Callery.
She says to avoid placing them near heaters or dark corners unless you want to see a fast decline.
For her, these plants are more like temporary guests than permanent roommates; treat them as seasonal décor, let them shine for their moment, then rotate them out before they dry up.
FAQ
Can plants actually make me more productive?
There’s evidence that they can. Studies show that indoor plants can reduce stress and boost concentration. Many people say that just having a bit of greenery in their line of sight helps them feel calmer and more engaged.
How often should I water plants in a home office?
Most indoor plants prefer their soil to dry slightly between waterings, but the size of the pot, light level, and humidity in your office all play a role. Rather than watering on a strict timetable, pay attention to how the soil feels.
Are artificial plants a good substitute?
Sure are! If your workspace has no natural light or you travel often, high-quality faux plants can still benefit your space. Just avoid overly shiny leaves that look plastic. Mixing a few real plants with artificial ones can also create a more natural balance without the full maintenance load.
