It’s almost time to commence Fall Semester 2019! Some of us may just be starting to pack items from home, while others have decided to get a head start and have already moved into their respective dorms. If you’re anything like myself, you probably have a Pinterest board solely dedicated to your dorm decor. Sure fairy lights, posters, and tapestries are fun, but if you’re looking for something that will add a bit more color and authenticity to your room, Plants may be what you’re looking for.
From decor, cleansing air, and even cooking, plants are quite beneficial. Listed below are a few plants that thrive in dormitories, and don’t require you to have a “green thumb” to take proper care of them.
Aloe Vera
Let’s start with Aloe Vera. Aloe vera is a multipurpose plant that can be used to treat minor cuts or soothe burns/blisters on the skin. This magical plant can also be used as a face mask and for my natural girls, Aloe vera juice has been shown to make our hair noticeably softer and our curls bouncier. For maintenance, Aloe vera plants are quite simple and require the bare minimum assistance. You should only water them about every two weeks, or when the soil dries out. Make sure that when you water your plant, you water it deeply, until the water is about an inch above the soil.
Cacti and Succulents
Cacti and Succulents are quite popular over social media and are the most aesthetically pleasing if you’re looking for something to add flair to your living space. Depending on the specific type, the frequency of watering varies from once every two weeks to once every month. These plants also do well in sunlight but be cautious of overexposing them to the sun. With their diverse looks and little need for maintenance, these plants are ideal for students who may not have a bunch of time on their hands.
Air Plants
Similar to cacti and succulents, air plants are quite unique and perfect for decor. Air plants, or Tillansandia, are plants that obtain their nutrients from the air surrounding them. Air plants do not grow in soil, nor do they have roots. They can live in bowls, vases, glasses, and/ or can be added to terrariums, which adds to their uniqueness. They are also very low maintenance, they thrive well in room temperatures and indirect sunlight, requiring a light misting of water once every week. These plants are perfect if you’re looking for something that requires little to no attention.
Snake Plants
If you have a smelly roommate or a room that could use a bit of detoxifying, snake plants are perfect for you. Snake plants are not only gorgeous, but they assist greatly in removing air pollutants and produce a large sum of oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide at night. These plants are very adaptable in any environment and require watering once every few weeks (depending on the temperature of your home).
ZZ Plants
For those who struggle with sleeping, the ZZ plant is the best choice for you. The ZZ plant is air-filtering and produces a ton of oxygen. The ZZ plant is also known for its ability to remove air pollutants from the atmosphere, similar to the snake plant. Perfect for placement by the window, it requires light sun exposure and watering every few weeks. This plant is a true indoor plant and assists greatly in brightening and freshening up any room it is placed in.
If you read this and feel as if plants may still be too much for you, artificial plants are available, but won’t provide you with nearly as much benefits as the real things. Hopefully, this semester you’ll decide to add a bit more life to your dormitory through the addition of one of these plants, or maybe even all of them!