Indoor Plants Can Ease SAD And Create A Cosy Autumn

One of the most important reasons to bring houseplants into your home during the autumn and winter months is their ability to improve air quality. As we spend more time indoors with windows closed, our exposure to indoor pollutants can increase. NASA's Clean Air Study found that certain plants can remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and ammonia from the air if you have enough of them.

Plants such as the snake plant (Sansevieria) or Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) act as natural air purifiers, filtering harmful substances while also adding moisture to dry indoor air.

Humidity and warmth

With the colder weather comes the use of heaters, which can significantly lower humidity levels in your home. This dryness can lead to discomfort, causing dry skin, irritated sinuses, and an overall feeling of stuffiness. Plants release moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. The added humidity makes your living space feel warmer and more comfortable.

Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies and author of the houseplant guide 'The Unkillables' states:
"Many people overlook how effective plants are at balancing humidity levels in the home. During autumn, when the air gets drier, plants act as natural humidifiers, making your home not only feel warmer but also healthier."

Plants reduce stress and improve well-being

The psychological benefits of houseplants have been well documented. Research published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology shows that interacting with plants can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall well-being. As the days grow shorter and darker, the simple act of nurturing a plant can give a sense of purpose and connection to nature, boosting your mood.

Adding greenery to your home can create a calming sanctuary, offering a mental escape from the hectic world outside. In autumn, when Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) becomes more prevalent due to reduced sunlight, houseplants offer a tangible way to combat these feelings of gloominess.

Enhancing your autumn décor

Houseplants also serve as versatile décor items. The vibrant green tones of plants can be paired beautifully with autumnal colours like burnt orange, deep reds, and golden yellows. Whether you opt for larger statement plants like monstera or a collection of smaller ones like succulents, they will bring a fresh and organic element to your autumn décor.

Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies suggests:
"Houseplants can easily be integrated into your seasonal decorations.

"Try placing a few trailing plants on a bookshelf or adding a large potted fern next to a cosy reading nook. Not only will it look great, but it will create a sense of warmth and life that’s hard to replicate with other décor."

Plants that thrive in autumn

If you're new to indoor gardening or unsure which plants will thrive during the colder months, there are several low-maintenance options perfect for autumn. Consider plants like:

ZZ Plant

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia):
A resilient plant that thrives in low light and needs minimal water.

Monaco Orchid

Monaco Orchid:
This uniquely coloured Orchid is also known as the jewel orchid - and we completely understand why! The gorgeous peachy orange tones of its delicate petals are a real show-stopper and feel incredibly luxe. Comes with a perfectly fitting white ceramic pot to sit within.

Spider Plant

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum):
This fast-growing plant is known for its air-purifying properties and is easy to care for.

Calathea Rufibarba

Calathea Rufibarba:
Native to the Tropical Americas, the Rufibarba is a gorgeous plant that has very distinctive slim leaves that are a lush deep green on top and a dark purple underneath.

Philodendron

Philodendron:
With its lush, heart-shaped leaves, this plant adds a tropical touch to any room and can thrive in indirect light.

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