I've noticed that, for some reason, the bedroom is usually the least prioritized when it comes to decorating with plants. I imagine the reason behind this might be that people think, 'Why spend the effort and money on something you’re unconscious for most of the time?' If that's the case, I’m here to tell you that you're missing out. In this blog post, I'll discuss why having plants in your bedroom is a fantastic idea, which species are most suitable, and how to style bedroom plants perfectly in your space.
Why Have Plants in the Bedroom Plants?
Having plants in the bedroom offers a variety of benefits that go beyond just looking pretty. Let’s explore three key reasons why you should consider adding some greenery to your sleeping space.
Bedroom Plants Enhance Air Quality
Plants are natural air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, which can help maintain a healthier environment in your bedroom. Certain plants, such as the Snake Plant and Peace Lily, are especially effective at removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
NASA did an entire case study on this that you can go have a look at (NASA's Clean Air Study). By improving air quality, plants can contribute to a better night’s sleep and overall well-being.
Bedroom Plants Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
There’s something fundamentally calming about being surrounded by nature, and this extends to having plants in your bedroom. The presence of greenery can help reduce stress and promote a sense of tranquility, making it easier to unwind after a long day. Studies have shown that interacting with plants can lower blood pressure and reduce feelings of anxiety, creating a more peaceful and restful environment for sleep.
Bedroom Plants Are Aesthetically Pleasing
Beyond their functional benefits, plants simply make a space look more vibrant and alive. They can complement any interior design style, from minimalist to bohemian, adding texture and color to your bedroom decor. Whether you opt for a statement plant like a Monstera or a collection of smaller succulents, plants can enhance the visual appeal of your bedroom, making it a place you’ll enjoy spending time in, even when you’re not asleep.
Top Bedroom Plants for Aesthetic Appeal
Having bedroom plants not only enhances the decor but also improves air quality. Here are some of the best bedroom plants for purifying the air in your sleeping space:
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is another excellent option for the bedroom, known for its glossy, dark green leaves that almost look waxy. This plant adds a touch of elegance and can thrive in low light conditions, which makes it perfect for rooms that don’t get much natural sunlight. The ZZ Plant is also very forgiving when it comes to neglect, so even if you’re not a diligent plant parent, this resilient beauty will continue to thrive.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are versatile and come in many varieties, each bringing its own unique charm to your bedroom. Whether it’s the heartleaf Philodendron with its trailing vines or the dramatic split-leaf Philodendron, these plants add a lush, tropical vibe to any space. They’re relatively easy to care for, requiring moderate light and regular watering, and they can grow quite large, making a bold statement in your bedroom.
Hoya
Hoyas, also known as wax plants, are loved for their thick, waxy leaves and clusters of star-shaped, fragrant flowers. These plants are perfect for the bedroom as they are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in indirect light. Hoyas can be trained to climb or trail, making them versatile for different decor styles. Their unique appearance and delightful scent make them a charming addition to any bedroom.
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
The Money Tree is known for its braided trunk and lush, green foliage. It’s believed to bring good luck and prosperity, making it a popular choice for bedrooms. The Money Tree thrives in bright, indirect light and needs moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Its attractive appearance and symbolic value make it a delightful and meaningful addition to your bedroom decor.
Monstera Deliciosa
The Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is famous for its large, glossy leaves with distinctive splits and holes. This plant can grow quite large, making it a stunning focal point in the bedroom. It thrives in bright, indirect light and regular watering, though it can tolerate some neglect. The Monstera’s dramatic appearance and relatively easy care make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Best Bedroom Plants for Air Purification
Having plants in the bedroom not only enhances the decor but also improves air quality. Here are some of the best plants for purifying the air in your sleeping space:
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is one of the best bedroom plants for improving indoor air quality. It can filter out a range of toxins including formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene. What makes the Snake Plant unique is its ability to convert CO2 into oxygen at night, making it an excellent plant for the bedroom. It’s incredibly low-maintenance, tolerating low light and infrequent watering, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to add a touch of greenery without too much fuss.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace Lilies are not just beautiful; they’re also powerful air purifiers. They can remove common toxins like ammonia, formaldehyde, and benzene, making your bedroom air cleaner and fresher. Peace Lilies prefer low to moderate light and like to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Their elegant white blooms add a serene, calming vibe to your space, which is perfect for a bedroom.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is one of the best plants for improving indoor air quality. It can filter out a range of toxins including formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and xylene. What makes the Snake Plant unique is its ability to convert CO2 into oxygen at night, making it an excellent plant for the bedroom.
Low Light Champions: Bedroom Plants for Bedrooms with Minimal Sunlight
Not all bedrooms get ample sunlight, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joys of indoor plants. Here are some of the best bedroom plants that thrive in low light conditions, perfect for those dimly lit bedrooms.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a resilient plant that doesn't mind low light conditions. Its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves can add a lush, vibrant touch to any bedroom. Pothos is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great choice for improving indoor air quality. It’s easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and tolerating a range of light conditions.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese Evergreen is a versatile plant known for its attractive, colourful foliage and its ability to thrive in low light. It comes in various varieties, with leaves that can be speckled, striped, or even tinged with red or pink. This plant is perfect for adding a pop of color to your bedroom. It’s also very low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and thriving in indirect light.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
The Cast Iron Plant lives up to its name, being nearly indestructible and thriving in low light conditions. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide a classic and elegant look, making it a perfect addition to any bedroom. This plant is incredibly hardy, tolerating neglect, low light, and varying temperatures. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a plant that’s both beautiful and easy to care for.
Bedroom Plant Care Tips
Caring for your bedroom plants properly ensures they thrive and bring lasting beauty to your space. Here are some essential care tips to keep your bedroom plants healthy and happy.
Understand Your Bedroom Plant’s Light Requirements
Different bedroom plants have different light needs. While some thrive in bright, indirect light, others can tolerate low light conditions. Place your bedroom plants according to their light requirements; for instance, keep low-light bedroom plants like the Snake Plant and ZZ Plant away from direct sunlight, while placing light-loving plants like Aloe Vera near a window.
Watering bedroom plants: Not Too Much, Not Too Little
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in bedroom plant care. Most indoor bedroom plants prefer their soil to dry out between waterings. Check the top inch of soil; if it’s dry, it’s time to water. Be sure to use pots with drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom, which can lead to root rot. That said, don’t forget to water your bedroom plants regularly—set a schedule to help you remember.
Humidity and Temperature
Most bedroom plants prefer moderate humidity and stable temperatures. If your bedroom tends to be dry, especially during winter, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your bedroom plants to increase humidity. Avoid placing bedroom plants near heating or cooling vents, as the fluctuating temperatures can stress them.
Pruning and Cleaning
Regular pruning helps keep your bedroom plants healthy and encourages new growth. Trim dead or yellowing leaves and any overgrown parts. Additionally, dust can accumulate on the leaves, blocking sunlight and reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth to keep them clean and shiny.
Fertilizing
Indoor bedroom plants need nutrients (N-P-K ratio) to grow, and occasional feeding can make a big difference. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to give your bedroom plants a boost. Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can harm your bedroom plants.
Watch for Pests
Indoor bedroom plants can sometimes attract pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect your bedroom plants for any signs of pests and treat them promptly if needed. Natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap are effective and safe options.
Styling Tips: Integrating Bedroom Plants into Bedroom Decor
Incorporating bedroom plants into your bedroom decor can transform the space into a tranquil, stylish retreat. Here are some creative styling tips to seamlessly integrate bedroom plants into your bedroom decor.
Create a Green Focal Point
Make a statement by choosing a large, eye-catching plant like a Monstera or a Fiddle Leaf Fig as the focal point of your room. Place it in a decorative pot that complements your bedroom’s color scheme. Position the plant where it can be easily seen, such as beside a reading chair or at the foot of your bed. I also like adding bedroom plants next to large mirrors, as the plants are reflected in the mirrors and create the illusion of more greenery.
Utilize Shelving and Hanging Planters
If you’re short on floor space, consider adding shelves or using hanging planters. Trailing bedroom plants like Pothos, English Ivy, or String of Pearls look stunning cascading down from a shelf. Hanging planters can be suspended from the ceiling or wall brackets, adding a vertical element to your greenery display. If you are renting and don’t have the luxury of drilling holes in your walls or ceilings, make use of your curtain rail as a rod for your hanging planters or incorporate some greenery with your clothes on a clothing rail.
Create a Plant Cluster
Group smaller bedroom plants together to create a mini indoor garden. Use bedroom plants of varying heights, textures, and colors to add depth and interest. Arrange them on a bedside table, dresser, or a dedicated plant stand. This not only looks beautiful but also makes it easier to care for them all in one spot.
Incorporate Plants into Your Nightstand Decor
I am of the opinion that a night stand looks incomplete without some form of foliage. Add a touch of greenery to your nightstand with a small, easy-to-care-for plant like a Snake Plant or a Peace Lily. Choose a decorative pot that complements your bedroom’s decor. This simple addition can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your bedside area and promote a calming atmosphere.
Use Window Sills and Ledges
Make use of natural light by placing bedroom plants on window sills or ledges. This is an ideal spot for light-loving bedroom plants like Alocasias. The greenery will not only thrive here but also create a beautiful frame for your windows, enhancing the overall look of your room.
Add Greenery to Unused Corners
Transform neglected corners of your bedroom into vibrant, green spaces. Tall bedroom plants like the Cast Iron Plant or a Rubber Plant can fill empty corners beautifully. For a more dramatic effect, consider using a plant stand to elevate the greenery and add visual interest.
Mix and Match Pots and Planters
Have fun with the pots and planters you choose. Mix different styles, colors, and materials to add personality to your plant display. Whether you prefer sleek, modern pots or rustic, handcrafted planters, the right combination can enhance your bedroom’s decor and make your bedroom plants stand out.
Adding plants to your bedroom is more than just a trendy decor choice; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. From enhancing air quality and creating a relaxing atmosphere to adding aesthetic appeal and being low-light champions, the right bedroom plants can transform your sleeping space into a serene, healthy retreat. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting out, there are plenty of options to suit your style and needs.
Remember, caring for your bedroom plants is key to ensuring they thrive and continue to beautify your bedroom. Pay attention to their light, water, and humidity needs, and don’t forget to show them some love with regular cleaning and the occasional feed. With these tips and plant suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating a green oasis in your bedroom.
Happy planting!
