Gaining the Green Thumb: The Best Low-Maintenance Plants for College Students
Turning your dorm room into a personal greenhouse.
by AINSLEY HOLMAN ★ SEPTEMBER 21, 2020
It’s no surprise that plants have a significant (and positive) impact on their surroundings! According to a study from Broadview University, plants can help you breathe better through consistent oxygen production, assist in relaxation, allow you to refocus your energy, and more. Simultaneously, keeping indoor plants can aid in increasing productivity, lift your mood, and push you get a good night’s sleep (something we all could use). However, with the fast-paced and hectic lifestyle that is often associated with being a college student, it is essential that the plants you choose to fill your space with are relatively low-light and dorm-friendly. With that in mind, here are our top picks for greenery that will give your space a natural pop of color without demanding too much time or attention.
Peace lily:
Peace lilies are extremely adaptable and low-maintenance, perfect for every on-the-go college student. This plant breaks down and neutralizes toxic gases like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene, producing fresh and healthy air for your space! The gorgeous peace lily symbolizes the rebirth of the soul and if left near a window, will bloom beautiful white flowers. Make sure to spritz the leaves with water to imitate a humid environment.
Credit: Pinterest
How to care for a peace lily: https://www.almanac.com/plant/peace-lilies
Pothos plant:
This plant is more popularly known as “devil’s ivy,” due to the fact it is nearly impossible to kill and stays green and healthy even in the dark. Pothos plants are one of the most effective air purifiers for removing common toxins! If put in the light, the green leaves will start to create intricate white patterns that will spruce up any dorm windowsill. This greenery makes for a great hanging plant, as the vines will grow continuously!
Credit: VSCO
How to care for a pothos plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/pothos/pothos-plant-care.htm
ZZ plant:
One of the most perfect plants for college students, ZZ plants are extremely neglect and drought tolerant, meaning they can still thrive when left alone for too long. Also, it accepts low-light conditions, making it a great addition to a dim dorm room with low natural light. ZZ plants represent steady growth, and removes copious amounts of toxins from the air!
Credit: Magnolia Thyme
How to care for a ZZ plant: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/zz-plant/caring-for-zz-plant.htm
Bromeliads:
Each bromeliad is unique in its shape, color(s), and pattern, meaning that no two bromeliads are alike! They release mass amounts of oxygen and remove air pollutants, and don’t require much attention to thrive. The long gorgeous green foliage is perfect for college students, as it is a tropical flower that prefers shade. Make sure not to leave your bromeliad in direct sun, as it can burn the leaves and turn the beautiful color less vibrant. Also, if you have a pet, this plant is non-toxic and pet-safe!
Credit: Afloral
How to care for a bromeliad: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/bromeliad/growing-bromeliad-plants.htm
Chinese evergreen plant:
This luck-bringing plant is perfect for new plant owners! It is an air purifier that cleans out formaldehyde and benzene from the air in your home. These low-effort plants thrive in medium to low light conditions and are extremely tolerant. Also, the leaves turn a beautiful pink color if left near a moderate to bright-lit window.
Credit: Pinterest
How to care for a Chinese evergreen plant:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/chinese-evergreen/chinese-evergreen-plants.htm
While plastic succulents and fake plants from Target work just fine, these five low-maintenance plants are sure to promote endless benefits to make you and your space more lively. So, whether you’re new to the plant world or a seasoned green thumb, be sure to pick up our favorites to enjoy the power of plants!