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Plant Power: The Best Dorm Plants for a Healthier Space

Ansley Ryan Student Contributor, Florida International University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FIU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

When decorating your dorm room, style and comfort usually are the main priority, but there’s one simple addition that can both boost your mood and health… plants! Bringing greenery into your tiny space doesn’t just make it feel more inviting, but research from the National Library of Medicine shows that having indoor plants can reduce stress, purify the air, and improve focus. Whether you’re working with a dim corner or a sunny windowsill, there’s a dorm-friendly plant that will thrive and elevate your space. In this article, we will explore a few of the best dorm plants to transform your room into a fresher, healthier, and more welcoming environment!

1. Succulents

Succulents are one of the best choices for your dorm room because they are not only cute but very low maintenance. With their unique shapes, succulents add personality to any surface. They thrive on minimal water and maximum sunlight, making them a perfect plant for a busy college student who might forget to water their plants. To keep your succulent happy, be sure to give it direct sunlight, water it sparingly, and use a pot with good drainage. Most succulents are able to handle dry condition and even a bit of shade, depending on the type. Beyond just bringing pizzaz to your room, succulents also purify the air around and improve the humidity, making your dorm feel fresher and more vibrant.

2. Orchids

Orchids are a beautiful and elegant addition to any dorm room, they come in a variety of colors, making your space feel calming and refined. Many orchids are quite easy to take care of, they need indirect sunlight, to be watered about once a week, and they need to have a good air flow to survive. Orchids bloom for a long time, so their colors can brighten up your room with minimal effort. They will also make your place healthier by absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen, creating a much healthier environment. With little effort, an orchid can add a pop of color and a bit of tranquility to every room they’re in.

3. The Snake Plant

The snake plant is a dorm room staple due to its sleek look and it being almost invincible in nature. Don’t worry this plant won’t attract any snakes, it is named that because its leaves resemble a snake’s skin and scales. With long, tall leaves, in a deep green and bright yellow, this plant will add a modern sleek feel to any space. Best of all, it thrives off neglect. Yep, that’s right, they need very little water and tolerate low light, making it perfect for busy college students. Beyond its looks, the snake plant is known as one of the top air-purifying plants, able to remove toxins like formaldehyde an even produce oxygen at night which can improve sleep quality. It is the ideal low maintenance plant that works just as hard as you.

4. Golden Pothos

Golden Pothos is one of the easiest and most rewarding plants you can have in your dorm room. Known for their beautiful heart-shaped leaves with some golden/ yellow tints, this plant adds a lush and tropical vibe to any space. It is an incredibly low maintenance plant that thrives off different lighting and needs occasional watering. Also, seeing as they are a hanging plant, you are able to cut them and propagate them, turning one plant into more. You can even give your propagations as gifts! Golden pathos is also known as a good air purifier. With its fast-growing abilities, it is the perfect plant for students who want something green, lively, and easy to care for.

Many girls love adding plants to their dorms because they bring a calming, cozy vibe that makes the space feel homey. Plants not only add a pop of color, but they also reflect a person’s style, their sense of care, and even their creativity. Whether it’s a delicate orchid or a stylish snake plant, each plant adds a touch of life to a small space. Plus, taking care of plants can be a soothing daily ritual, perfect for managing the stress of college life.

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I am in my second year at FIU. I am majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies and minoring in Hospitality. I have a passion for journalism and am excited to read and create article I am (and hopefully others) passionate about.

I was born and raised in South Florida; I love to talk about how my experiences have shaped the person I am today. Besides being a full-time student, I am part of a book club, pre- dental society, and I am a mentor for incoming freshman. Being in these clubs have helped me develop my leadership skills and have helped me stay connected to current topics in health and art.

When I am not studying or writing, I am definitely reading, listening to music, baking, tanning at the beach, or playing volleyball. I believe trying new hobbies helps influence my writing and I am excited to grow further with HC.