Incorporating natural elements into interior design, often called biophilic design, has gained popularity as people seek calmer, more restorative home environments. The bedroom, dedicated to rest and recovery, is a natural candidate for this green transformation. This article explores the verified science and actionable advice to determine whether plants belong in your sleeping space.
How Bedroom Plants Improve Well-being
Introducing plants into the bedroom environment offers immediate psychological benefits rooted in their aesthetic appeal. The presence of natural shapes and colors promotes a feeling of tranquility and visual comfort, which contributes to a more relaxed state before sleep. Studies suggest that simply viewing natural settings, even indoors, can lower stress levels and improve mood.
This positive response is largely attributed to the biophilia hypothesis, which posits that humans have an innate tendency to seek connections with nature. Nurturing a plant satisfies this deep-seated connection, creating a feeling of security and well-being in a personal space. This sense of connection can indirectly enhance the perceived quality of rest.
On a technical level, some plants perform phytoremediation, a process where they absorb trace amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air through their leaves and root systems. Compounds like formaldehyde or benzene, which can off-gas from furniture and carpets, are metabolized by the plant. Although the removal rate is low, this minor cleansing action adds a small benefit to the air quality.
Separating Fact from Fiction
The most common hesitation regarding bedroom plants centers on the misconception that they consume too much oxygen at night. During photosynthesis in daylight, plants take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. At night, they switch to respiration, consuming a small amount of oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide, just like humans.
The amount of carbon dioxide released by a typical houseplant is exceedingly small. A single adult human releases significantly more carbon dioxide during sleep than a small collection of houseplants combined. The respiratory output of plants is negligible and poses no threat to the oxygen levels in a standard bedroom.
A more legitimate concern involves managing moisture and potential allergens. Overwatering the soil can create conditions favorable for mold growth, which releases spores that can irritate those with sensitivities. Similarly, consistently damp soil attracts fungus gnats, small insects that are more of a nuisance than a danger.
Choosing foliage-focused plants and ensuring the top layer of soil is allowed to dry between waterings effectively mitigates these minor health and pest risks. Selecting a highly flowering species can introduce pollen into the room, so non-flowering varieties are generally preferred.
Top Plants and Placement Tips
Selecting the right species is the first step toward successful bedroom gardening, focusing on plants that thrive in common indoor conditions:
- The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is recommended for its tolerance of low light and upright, space-saving growth habit.
- The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) and Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are similarly forgiving and require minimal attention.
- Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are popular due to their easy propagation and non-toxic nature, making them safe if pets or small children share the home.
- The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) adds foliage and occasional white flowers, but owners should be aware it contains calcium oxalate crystals and must be kept out of reach of curious animals.
Bedrooms often have lower light levels, so placement should maximize the available natural light without risking leaf scorch. Position plants near, but not directly in, a south- or west-facing window, ensuring they receive bright, indirect light for several hours. Plants should also be kept away from direct heat sources or air conditioning vents, as temperature fluctuations and drafts cause stress and dry out foliage rapidly.
Adjusting watering frequency is particularly important in a bedroom setting to prevent mold and pest issues. It is generally safer to underwater than to overwater; most popular houseplants prefer their soil to dry out completely between waterings. Cleaning dust off the leaves periodically is also advised, as a layer of dust can block light absorption and reduce the plant’s overall health.