Plants in a bedroom: Where should I put them?

Plants breathe life into any space, literally and figuratively. Sometimes, it’s hard to know where to place them. So, here’s a complete guide to help you enliven your bedroom with gorgeous green goodness. 

Whether you have just one window, or multiple, it’s important to arrange your plants so that they accentuate your space well, but also get enough natural light to thrive. There are some plants that are more high maintenance than others, so depending on just how green your thumb is, you have lot’s of options to make plant care part of your daily life, or just a monthly check in.

Your bedroom represents you in feng shui, and it’s the most private area of your home. It’s the best place to start to use feng shui to improve your life. In addition, plants are a skillful way to bring the natural world into your home’s interior so that you can receive the benefits of nature. Plants in feng shui also represent life energy, vitality, restoration, and growth. They are also an expression of the wood element, which is one of the five elements used in feng shui. The wood element also brings in movement, kindness, and flexibility. Plus, everybody loves a great houseplant!

The bedroom, like every other room, can accumulate chemicals and dust depending on the materials in it. For good sleep, and overall health, plants can have massive benefits of cleaning the air. You see, plants respire just like us humans, but in reverse order and through a much slower process: plants absorb carbon dioxide from the environment and produce oxygen during the day that can then be released at night. If you are wondering what benefits you may experience from having indoor plants in your bedroom, here are a few that you should know.

Benefits of Having Plants in the Bedroom:

1. Plants can Purify the Air

As mentioned earlier, certain toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene can be unintentionally redistributed into the air in our bedrooms. In the right conditions, air purifying plants for bedroom can have an effect on the air as they absorb and trap some of these toxins and release oxygen, thus making the air that you breathe cleaner. These air purifying plants for bedroom can also create a fresh sleeping environment.

2. They can help relieve stress

3. They Bring the Benefits of Nature Inside

Adding a potted plant on your bedside table or off to one corner of your room can help make your space more alive and vibrant. Forest Bathing, which means basically being immersed in a natural environment, has proven massive benefits on overall health. In addition, they create a lush, lively atmosphere, that can’t really be achieved any other way. While most benefits of modernity have been related to separating us from nature, there are many benefits to reconnecting to it, and adding plants to your interior spaces is a great and simple way to do so.

Ten of The Best Bedroom Plants

1. Snake Plants

native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo. It is most commonly known as the snake plant, Saint George’s sword, mother-in-law’s tongue, and viper’s bowstring hemp, among other names. The plant features stiff, sword-like leaves ranging from six inches to eight feet tall. Snake plants can vary in color although many have green-banded leaves and commonly feature a yellow border.  This insanely low-maintenance plant is an optimal choice for the bedroom because not only does it claim a spot on NASA’s list of the top 10 air-purifying plants, but it also is one of few houseplants that converts carbon dioxide into oxygen at night (something most houseplants only do during the day). This plant only needs bright indirect sunlight, and to be watered occasionally, so it’s pretty low maintenance.

2. Heart Leaf Philodendron

Among NASA’s top 10 list is the Philodendron which is a popular houseplant because it’s almost impossible to kill. This trailing plant’s heart-shaped leaves come in a variety of visually appealing variations and are particularly effective at absorbing formaldehyde. However, keep out of reach of pets and children because this plant is toxic when eaten. This one only needs moderate to bright light, and can be watered occasionally. The heartleaf philodendron is a species of flowering plant in the family Araceae, native to Central America and the Caribbean. Without pinching, it will grow with long, single stems and become lanky. You can pinch it back anytime to help it branch out, keeping the plant bushy and full. Always pinch after a leaf node (the place where a leaf is attached to the stem). A new stem will grow from that node.

3. Spider Plant

This plant is the infamous in bedrooms across the world, as well as restaurants: you’ve probably seen luscious ceiling filled with plants. They’re probably spider plants. I have one that started with a clipping from a friend’s large and luscious plant, and after letting it grow roots in a cup of water, I planted it. It is now a large hanging plant that fills up the ceiling beautifully, and I have watered it very rarely. Perfect for a hanging planter, and easy to propagate; this plant is effective at fighting a variety of pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and xylene. Keep these plants in bright to moderate indirect sunlight and water occasionally during initial growth. Once you’ve had the plant for about a year, water moderately.

4. Rubber Plant

If you’ve ever seen a rubber plant in the wild, you’ll know just how magnificent they can be. They can grow into full sized trees, especially in warmer humid climates. This low-maintenance beauty with its striking forest green leaves is a powerful toxin eliminator and air purifier. The abundant leaves of this plant draw in large amounts of contaminants, making it excellent at cleaning indoor air. Allow these plants to dry between waterings and keep in moderate to low light. Ficus elastica, the rubber fig, rubber bush, rubber tree, rubber plant, or Indian rubber bush, Indian rubber tree, is a species of flowering plant in the family Moraceae, native to eastern parts of South Asia and southeast Asia. It has become naturalized in Sri Lanka, the West Indies, and the US State of Florida. A rubber tree houseplant needs bright light but prefers indirect light that isn’t too hot. Some people recommend putting it near a window that has sheer curtains. This allows plenty of light, but hopefully not too much heat.

5. Gardenia

Gardenias have been popular shrubs in South Carolina since the 18^th Century and have been grown by the Chinese for over a thousand years. They were named after the Scottish naturalist Alexander Garden (1730 – 1791). Gardenias are not the easiest shrubs to grow, but the exquisite white, fragrant flowers make up for the extra attention gardenias require. The Gardenia is a little more high maintenance than the other plants on our list, but the extra care needed will definitely be worth your while. These plants bloom gorgeous scented blossoms that are a popular choice for the bedroom. Studies have shown that these plants may help you relieve anxiety and achieve better quality sleep. Make sure to place these plants in bright indirect sunlight and keep the soil continuously moist.

6. Areca Palm

It is hard to believe that the areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) was once an endangered species. Drive down almost any street in a warm climate, and you are likely to see dozens of these tall, attractive, clumping palms that look a lot like bamboo. The palms have smooth, sometimes golden trunks that are reminiscent of bamboo clumps. Their fronds are narrow and full, almost like bamboo leaves. When grown outdoors, they are often used as a privacy screen. These palms also are grown indoors as houseplants. They are best planted in the spring, and they have a slow to moderate growth rate. The Areca Palm adds a lush aesthetic to any indoor environment. These plants are boasted for their air purifying abilities that remove harmful toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. One study found that the Areca Palm is one of the best plants for removing carbon dioxide from the air. These palms grow best in bright indirect light when their soil is kept evenly moist.

7. Lavender

It’s not typically thought of as a houseplant, but lavender can survive indoors under the right conditions. Give it bright, direct light for a few hours every day, preferably in a south-facing window, and water when the soil is slightly dry. Don’t overwater lavender, though, or the plant will rot. Lavandula is a genus of 47 known species of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the Old World and is found in Cape Verde and the Canary Islands, and from Europe across to northern and eastern Africa, the Mediterranean, southwest Asia to India. Imagine waking up to the subtle yet beautiful scent of Lavender by your bedside. This plant is so often harvested for its scent, but what if you could just have access to it fresh twenty four seven? Heaven, in my opinion.

8. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera releases oxygen at night making it perfect for your sleep environment. It is also one of the easiest plants to care for, because it can tolerate neglect — meaning you can go three weeks without watering it and it will be OK. These succulent plants are also known for their medicinal benefits; the juice from their leaves can be used for scrapes and burns when applied topically. Aloe vera has healing properties, but it also has such beautiful thick leaves that it really elevates any space. Before you buy an aloe, note that you’ll need a location that offers bright, indirect sunlight (or artificial sunlight). Direct sunlight can dry out the plant too much and turn its fleshy leaves yellow, so you may need to water more often if your aloe lives in an especially sunny spot.The gel from aloe vera leaves can be used topically, but should not be eaten by people or pets. It can cause unpleasant symptoms such as nausea or indigestion and may even be toxic in larger quantities.

9. Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata, known as the sword fern or Boston fern, is a species of fern in the family Lomariopsidaceae native to tropical regions throughout the world. This evergreen plant can reach as high as 40–90 centimetres, and in extreme cases up to 1.5 metresThese lush ferns are an inexpensive, classic houseplant, and their arching, bright green fronds always look lovely. But be warned: They can be a bit of a diva indoors. Boston Ferns prefer lots of light, and they’ll need to be misted every day. Alternatively, you can try putting them on a tray of pebbles filled with water. What’s more, they also tend to shed regularly … so, like a parent, you should be prepared to pick up after them!

10. Pothos

Pothos is quite possibly the easiest houseplant to grow. It has shiny, heart-shaped leaves and vining stems that can grow to several feet long. Preferring moderate to bright light, Pothos actually prefers to get a little dry between waterings. Pothos is very popular due to the fact that it can be grown in water or in dry soil. Cuttings can be taken from a mother plant and rooted in water and kept in water as a houseplant. This is convenient for placing a pothos plant in hard to reach areas in a jug of water where it can remain untouched as long as water remains in the jug. On the opposite end, pothos can also be started in soil and will tolerate moderate periods of dry soil with little effect to the plant. Oddly enough, cuttings started in one growing medium have a hard time switching to the other.

 

Five Spots to Place Your Bedroom Plants

1. Hanging from the Ceiling

Turn house plants into a focal point in your bedroom by hanging greenery above the windows. It’s a clever way to add in greenery without it taking up space on your nightstand or dresser top. Opt for a drapey plant that gives you a full overflowing look when it’s hung up. It will add instant texture and color, and it will give your room a more dynamic look. Round it out with botanical elements, like floral art and pillows, and a few small succulents on your bedside tables. I love hanging plants because I feel they balance out the room nicely, and create a jungle like feeling with very little effort. There are many beautifully crafted hanging plant holders on the market now, from rope, to leather, to metal. They come in all shapes and materials, so there really is one for every style. The more the plant grows, especially if it’s a draping plant, the more it will cover the base of the planter. This creates a really beautiful effect, but in this case the lines holding the planter to the ceiling may be the most important aesthetic feature. Something to consider when purchasing!

2. On A Table

This is a classic and really easy way to style plants in the bedroom. From sprucing up your bedside table, to creating depth and texture on your dresser, to filtering the air right next to your workspace, placing plants on top of any table surface in your bedroom is a simple and easy way to add life. Turn any bookcase into a captivating display and storage space. You can mix an array of indoor plants with books, knick-knacks, objects, and mini sculptures to make your storage look like a curated collection of unique finds and plants. There’s no rule for how to arrange indoor plants on your bookshelf, but a good rule of thumb is to make sure you have a wide variety of leafy greenery, tall cactus, and some small trees and flowers. They’ll provide lively contrast to all your books and objects.

3. Window Spot

Whether it’s your living room or bedroom, framing a large window with lively house plants and greenery will help play up the view inside and outside. Bring together hanging and floor plants in front of your window and choose eye-catching vessels for them. A woven basket planter is perfect for a tall leafy tree while brass hanging planters are great accessories for adding a touch of glam. Think of this combo as a high low mix that will help ground and center your focus on your window scene. In addition, this is one of the best ways to help plants that need a lot of natural light to thrive. One thing to consider, however, is keeping enough space for light to get through from the window. It is a common mistake I’ve seen, that the window is blocked by too many plants, and it reduces the light getting into the room.

 

4. Floor Plants!

This is a great way to warm up a small space or an unused corner in the bedroom. Layer in nature-inspired finishing touches, like ocean-print and botanical pillows, a sheepskin rug, and a compact wood stool, which will usher in major comfort and charm. If you happen to have a fireplace in your bedroom, well lucky you! Try mixing different types of plants in a range of sizes, arranging taller and bigger greenery around the hearth and decorate your mantel with smaller potted plants. Once you have your plants, layer in other accessories like books, vases, bowls, and art to really bring the space to life. Placing large scale plants on the floor can really balance out the bedroom. You can also get a short plant stand to lift them up a little. I like a floor plant to stand up to at least my waist height to feel like the scale is right.

5. Floating Shelf

I have installed many a floating shelf in my bedroom to host plants and books. They make a beautiful display, and are a great way to create texture and vibrancy on your wall, plus they keep the plants off much needed counter space. Plants can act as great book stands as well, so pairing the two on your floating shelf is a wonderful way to allow them to compliment each other. If you are putting more than two books and a plant on your shelf, you will want to make sure that it is securely fastened to the wall. It’s important to use wall anchors and screws, and make sure the shelf itself is load bearing. You never want a shelf with a plant to come crashing down, it’s a messy affair, and can damage or kill the plant. So, with the proper attachments, a floating shelf is a really wonderful option for showcasing your favourite household plant.

 

While some Feng Shui guidelines and principles state that you should not place plants in the bedroom, I personally find so much joy in having plants around me in the room where I sleep and rest. They have so many real physical benefits to boast, but they also just add such beautiful ambience to the space. There are so many options to choose from for distributing them through your space, to help both them thrive, and you. I hope this guide gave you plenty of ideas on what plants to choose, and how to arrange them to create your ultimate bedroom oasis.