If you are like many people, you probably spend most of your time in the office. The truth is that spending too much time in an office can be draining and stressful. But you can change that by bringing a bit of nature into it. Succulents are among the best office plants because they are low-maintenance and boost productivity. These plants can make you feel happier and give off a vibe that makes you feel good.
So, how can you grow succulents in your office? The secret to growing succulents in an office setting is understanding their specific needs. Start by choosing the right type of succulent suitable for your office climate and environment. Pay attention to its lighting needs and ensure you use the correct potting mix type. Water your office succulent sparingly to avoid causing rot problems. You must also choose the right type of pot for use. The container should have plenty of drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out fast. Most importantly, keep the succulent in an area with proper temperature and humidity levels.
Here is the ultimate guide to growing succulents in an office. Read on to find out everything you need to know.
Step 1: Choose the Right Succulent Species
The success rate of growing succulents in an office setting largely depends on the succulent species. You need to remember that not all succulents are alike.
There are over 1600 succulent species in the world, each with its unique requirements. Some succulent species are more adapted to growing in low-light office conditions than others.
Succulent species that need a lot of direct sunlight to thrive may not be a good choice for office spaces.
Take time to know your preferred succulent plants and their growth requirements. Do a little research and settle for those perfect for your office conditions.
Some of the best low-light succulents that may thrive in an office setting include:
- Snake Plant: Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant remains one of the toughest low-light succulents. There are dozens of varieties to choose from depending on your specific needs. The succulent grows to four feet and requires minimal watering to thrive.
- Echeveria: Echeveria refers to a group of succulents that come in various shapes and colors. The plants are low-maintenance and can thrive in office spaces with minimal light and care.
- String of Pearls: String of Pearls is a popular trailing plant with small round green leaves. It’s one of the best choices for those looking for an easy-to-maintain office succulent.
- Panda plant: The leaves of the Panda plant are usually covered with soft hairs, a feature that makes it stand out from other succulents. It’s an ideal office plant and can thrive in low-light conditions.
- Ox tongue plant: You can also go for the Ox tongue plant if you are looking for a low-light indoor succulent that can thrive in your office. The plant grows to a height of three feet with lush green leaves and minimal care needs.
Step 2: Choose the Right Pot
The type of pot you choose will have a major impact on the health of your office succulent. Ideally, it should be large enough to accommodate the root system and allow fast drainage.
Ensure there are at least four or five drainage holes at the bottom of the container for proper and fast water drainage.
If you use a pot with no drainage hole, add some extra stones or pieces of broken pottery at the bottom for proper drainage.
You must also be keen on the potting material. Avoid pots made of plastic since they can trap moisture and promote root rot. Instead, go for glazed ceramic or terra cotta containers that are porous and breathable.
Step 3: Use the Right Potting Mix
The type of soil you use in the pot will also influence the health and growth rate of your office succulent. Choose a bagged succulent mix of shredded bark, perlite, and peat moss.
These ingredients allow optimum water absorption while ensuring proper drainage and air circulation.
Avoid regular potting soil as this will retain too much water, causing root rot, which may damage your office succulent.
Step 4: Find the Right Spot for Your Office Plant
Now that you have settled on the right succulent species for your office, it’s time to find a spot where your plant can thrive.
Before deciding on any particular spot, consider the amount of natural light available in the office. Succulents need some direct sunlight daily, preferably four to six hours.
If the office has limited natural lighting, you can settle for a spot close to an artificial light source.
You can also use LED grow lights and other lamps to supplement natural lighting in case your succulent is not getting enough light.
Step 5: Water Your Office Succulent Sparingly
You need to understand that succulents don’t need a lot of water to thrive. Overwatering may lead to irreversible root rot.
For best results, water your office succulent sparingly and only when necessary. During spring and summer, check the soil every week for signs of dryness and water accordingly. You should only water your succulent when the potting mix is completely dry.
During winter, you may need to cut down on watering since succulents are dormant during this period.
You must also ensure the container has good drainage to allow excess water to flow out quickly.
Step 6: Watch Out for Temperature and Humidity
Temperature and humidity play a major role in the growth and health of your office succulent. Most succulents prefer temperatures between 65 ̊F to 75 ̊F.
If you live in a cold climate, make sure that you keep your office succulent away from any heating sources like vents or drafts. Too much heat can damage your succulent.
Humidity is also vital for the health and growth of succulents. Low humidity levels can cause your office plant to suffer from wilting, poor blooming, or a slow growth rate.
To prevent this, you need to ensure that there are proper temperature and humidity levels inside your office space.
Step 7: Don’t Overfertilize
Many gardeners, especially beginners, make the mistake of over-fertilizing their office plants. Succulents don’t need a lot of fertilizer to thrive and grow, and you should not overdo it.
You only need to apply liquid fertilizer every month during the spring and summer seasons when your succulent is actively growing and blooming.
Stop feeding your office succulent during winter because it’s dormant and requires minimal care.
Step 8: Be on the Lookout for Pests
Your succulent may attract a few pests, including mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation on your office plant, use a natural homemade pesticide to get rid of them as soon as possible.
You may also need to repot your succulent if it’s overcrowded or the roots are already showing at the surface of the soil.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Succulent Plant in an Office?
One significant benefit of having succulents in the office is their ability to enhance indoor air quality.
Succulents, such as aloe vera and snake plants, have been found to effectively purify the air by removing toxins and harmful chemicals.
Through photosynthesis, succulents absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, contributing to a healthier work environment.
Improved air quality can reduce the risk of respiratory problems, allergies, and fatigue among employees, ultimately boosting productivity and well-being.
Studies have shown that the presence of natural elements in the workplace can significantly improve focus and productivity. With their visually appealing and calming presence, succulents create a more pleasant and engaging atmosphere.
The natural beauty of succulents can help reduce stress levels and enhance mental clarity, allowing employees to concentrate better on their tasks.
Incorporating succulents into office spaces can foster a positive work environment, stimulating creativity and boosting overall efficiency.
The presence of succulents in the office can also have a profound impact on employee well-being and stress reduction. Plants have been proven to positively affect mental health, reducing anxiety, and enhancing mood.
With their low-maintenance requirements, succulents provide a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
Taking care of these plants or simply admiring their beauty during breaks can serve as a therapeutic activity, promoting relaxation and overall well-being in the office.
Finally, succulents are renowned for their unique shapes, colors, and textures, which add an aesthetic appeal to any office space. Their visually pleasing characteristics enhance the ambiance and create a more inviting work environment.
The presence of succulents reflects a modern and sophisticated design, adding a touch of elegance to the office decor.
A well-designed and visually appealing office can leave a positive impression on clients, visitors, and employees, projecting professionalism and attention to detail.
Final Thoughts
The key to growing succulents in office spaces is to choose the right species, select the ideal potting mix, find an appropriate spot for your plant, water sparingly, control temperature and humidity levels, and don’t over-fertilize.
If you take good care of your succulent plant, it will reward you with lush foliage and colorful blooms that will make you happy and more productive.
Last update on 2023-07-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
