Living room plants: the 10 best plants for the living room

The living room is the center of every home. It's the place where we relax, receive guests and spend time with our family. But how can we make our living room even more cozy and inviting? One way is to integrate houseplants. In this article, we present the 10 best plants for the living room and give you tips on choosing and caring for them.

Why plants are important in the living room

Plants are not only aesthetically pleasing, they also have numerous health benefits. Houseplants can improve the indoor air by pollutants filtering pollutants and producing oxygen. They create a natural and calming atmosphere that can reduce stress. Plants can also act as a natural humidifier, making the indoor climate more pleasant.

However, plants in the living room can do more than just look good. They can also have a positive effect on our health. A 2019 study showed that the presence of plants indoors can increase concentration and productivity. The researchers found that participants who worked in a room with plants showed better cognitive performance than those who worked in a room without plants.

Health benefits of indoor plants

Houseplants have been shown to have positive effects on our health. They can reduce allergens and pollutants in the air and thus prevent allergies and respiratory diseases. They also improve concentration and productivity. Studies have shown that the presence of plants in a room can lead to better cognitive performance.

Another health benefit of indoor plants is their ability to increase humidity. Dry indoor air can lead to dry skin, irritated eyes and respiratory problems. By placing plants in your living room, you can make the indoor climate more pleasant and avoid these problems.

Improving the indoor air with plants

Houseplants can improve the indoor air by pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air. These pollutants can be released from furniture, paints or cleaning agents and can cause long-term health problems. It is therefore extremely important to sofas made from sustainable and tested materials to buy. By placing plants in your living room, you can improve the air quality and create a healthier indoor climate.

In addition to filtering pollutants houseplants also produce oxygen. During the photosynthesis process, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. This can help to improve indoor air quality and increase your general well-being.

There are many different types of houseplants that you can place in your living room. Some popular options are the green lily, rubber tree and bow hemp. These plants are not only beautiful to look at, but are also easy to care for and can therefore also be suitable for beginners. In addition, ferns and the rubber tree have a cooling effect in summer. You can find more tips for a cool living room here. 

To get the best out of your houseplants, you should water and fertilize them regularly. Make sure they get enough light, but avoid direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves. With the right care, houseplants can thrive in your living room for many years and provide you with the many health benefits they can offer.

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Choosing the right plants for your living room

When choosing plants for your living room, you should consider a few factors.

A green living room creates a pleasant atmosphere and gives your home a natural touch. Houseplants are not only decorative, but also improve the air quality by producing oxygen and filtering pollutants. However, choosing the right plants for your living room can be a challenge.

Considering light and temperature

Most houseplants need bright, indirect light to thrive. Therefore, favor plants that can get by with little light if your living room is not particularly sunny. There are many plants that grow well in the shade, such as the zamioculcas or the bow hemp. However, make sure that these plants also need some light to stay healthy.

In addition to light, temperature also plays an important role in choosing the right plants. Some plants prefer warmer conditions, while others prefer colder climates. If your living room is rather cool, cacti or succulents might be the right choice for you. They are adapted to dry and warm environments and do not require much water.

Selection according to care requirements

The care intensity of a houseplant varies depending on the species. If you have little time to look after your plants, choose robust plants that require minimal care. An example of this is the green lily, which thrives in less than ideal conditions and only requires occasional watering.

If you enjoy spending time with your plants and want to look after them, you can also choose more demanding plants that require your attention. Orchids, for example, are beautiful plants but require special care. They need to be watered and fertilized regularly, and they prefer high humidity.

Another important factor when choosing the right plants for your living room is the space available. Measure the space you have for your plants and choose plants that will fit in that space. It's also important to consider the growing habits of the plants to ensure they have enough space to spread out

Top 10 plants for your living room

Succulents: Easy-care beauties

Succulents are the perfect choice if you are looking for easy-care plants. They require little water and can cope with different light conditions. Succulents can be found in different shapes and colors and bring variety to your living room.

Did you know that succulents store water in their leaves? This allows them to survive in dry environments where other plants would struggle. Some succulent species even have thorny leaves to protect themselves from predators.

The variety of succulents is impressive. There are smaller species that fit perfectly on windowsills and larger species that can serve as eye-catchers on a table or dresser. No matter which succulents you choose, they will add a touch of beauty and elegance to your living room.

Ficus: a classic for the living room

The ficus is a popular houseplant that can be found in many living rooms. It is robust, purifies the air and requires little light. The ficus can become an eye-catcher in your living room and improve the indoor air at the same time.

There are different types of ficus plants, including the Ficus benjamina, the Ficus elastica and the Ficus lyrata. Each of these species has its own unique characteristics and can add a special atmosphere to your living room.

The Ficus benjamina, for example, has delicate, green leaves that bring a touch of freshness to the room. The Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree, has shiny, dark green leaves that create an elegant look. The Ficus lyrata, also known as the violin fig, has large, feathery leaves that create a dramatic accent.

Orchids: Exotic elegance

Orchids are known for their exotic beauty and elegance. They bloom in different colors and can transform your living room into a tropical oasis. Orchids require a little more attention, but the effort is worth it for their breathtaking blooms.

There are thousands of orchid species in the world, many of which are native to tropical regions. Each species has its own specific requirements in terms of light, temperature and humidity. When choosing orchids, it's important to understand the needs of your chosen species to ensure they thrive in your living room.

Orchids are also known for their long flowering period. Some species can bloom for several months, while others only bloom for a few weeks. No matter which type of orchid you choose, they will add an exotic touch to your living room and become a talking point for your guests.

Monstera: the trendsetter among houseplants

Monstera is a houseplant that is currently very popular. It has large, decorative leaves that contribute to a trendy look in your living room. The Monstera needs bright, indirect light and regular watering.

The characteristic holes in the Monstera's leaves make it a unique houseplant. These holes, also known as windows, serve to allow the leaves more light and at the same time give them an interesting structure. The Monstera is a climbing plant that can grow up a moss stick or a wall.

The Monstera is also known as the "Swiss cheese plant" due to the similarity of its leaves to the appearance of Swiss cheese. With its trendy look and appealing design, the Monstera is the perfect choice to add a modern touch to your living room.

Philodendron: the easy-care climbing plant

Philodendrons are climbing plants that are ideal for living rooms. They require little light and can grow on shelves or walls. Philodendrons are easy to care for and even beginners can enjoy integrating plants into their home.

There are many different types of philodendrons, each with their own unique characteristics. Some philodendron species have heart-shaped leaves, while others have elongated or lobed leaves. The Color of the leaves also varies, from deep green to bright yellow.

Philodendrons are also known for their air-purifying properties. They can filter pollutants from the air and thus improve the air quality in your living room. With their easy care and attractive appearance, philodendrons are a great choice for anyone looking for a climbing plant to brighten up their living room.

Sansevieria: the indestructible desert plant

Sansevieria, also known as bow hemp or mother-in-law's tongue, is an extremely hardy plant. It can survive with little light and water and is therefore perfect for living rooms that do not offer much natural light. Sansevieria has long, upright leaves and is a good choice for adding greenery to your living room.

The Sansevieria is a succulent and stores water in its leaves, which helps it to survive dry periods. This plant is also known for its air-purifying properties. It can filter pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, improving the air quality in your living room.

There are different varieties of Sansevieria, some with striped or spotted leaves. Thanks to its robust nature and interesting appearance, it is a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant to add a natural touch to their living room.

Aloe vera: the medicinal plant for the living room

Aloe vera is not only a beautiful houseplant, but also a medicinal plant. The gel from its leaves has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties and can be used to treat skin injuries or sunburn. It needs bright light, but direct sunlight should be avoided.

As a succulent, aloe vera stores water in its fleshy leaves, which helps it to survive in dry environments. It has long, pointed leaves and can grow to an impressive size.

To extract the gel from the leaves, simply cut off a leaf and squeeze out the gel. This can then be applied directly to the skin to take advantage of its healing properties. With its dual function as a houseplant and medicinal plant, aloe vera is a great addition to the living room.

Ivy: the ideal hanging plant

Ivy is a popular hanging plant for the living room. It has long tendrils that can grow down from hanging baskets or shelves. It needs bright, indirect light and regular watering and is perfect for filling empty corners or high shelves in the living room.

Ivy is a robust plant and can thrive in a variety of environments. It is also known for its air-purifying properties and can filter pollutants from the air. It has heart-shaped leaves that are available in various shades of green.

Ivy plants are also easy to propagate. You can cut cuttings from the plant and root them in water or soil. This way you can propagate your ivy and get more plants for your living room or to give as gifts.

Care tips for your living room plants

The living room is a popular place to place houseplants. Not only do they give the room a pleasant atmosphere, they also improve the air quality. However, to keep your living room plants healthy and beautiful, it's important to look after them properly. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

Watering and fertilizing

Most houseplants need regular watering to survive. However, it is important to consider the right timing and the right amount of water. Regularly check the moisture level of the soil by sticking your finger about one centimeter deep into the soil. When the top layer is dry, it's time to water your plants. However, avoid drowning them as this can lead to root rot.

In addition to watering, fertilization is also important to provide your plants with the nutrients they need. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains all the important nutrients. The frequency of fertilization depends on the type of plant and the time of year. In general, you should fertilize your houseplants every two weeks during the growth phase. In winter, when plant growth is slower, you can reduce fertilization to once a month.

Repotting and pruning

Houseplants grow over time and therefore occasionally need a larger pot to make room for their roots to grow. Observe the growth of your plants and check the roots regularly. If you notice that the roots are filling the available space and protruding from the pot, it is time to repot the plant. Choose a pot that is at least 2-3 cm larger than the old pot and use fresh potting soil.

In addition to repotting, regular pruning of your houseplants is important to promote growth and health. Remove dead leaves or shoots to make room for new growth. Also cut off excessively long shoots to promote bushy and compact growth. Always use a clean and sharp tool to avoid damaging the plant.

By following these care tips, you can ensure that your living room plants stay healthy and beautiful. Don't forget to check your plants regularly and look out for possible pests or diseases. With a little attention and care, your houseplants will become real eye-catchers in your living room.

Common problems and solutions for houseplants

Pest infestation and diseases

Sometimes your houseplants can be attacked by pests such as aphids, spider mites or fungus gnats. Check your plants regularly for signs of infestation and take measures to get rid of the pests. Diseases such as mold or fungal infestation can be caused by excessive watering. Therefore, make sure that the soil is not too moist.

It is important that you inspect your houseplants regularly and watch out for possible pests. Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant juices and can weaken the leaves. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that weave fine threads and suck the plant leaves. Fungus gnats are small flies that lay their eggs in the soil and whose larvae can eat the roots of plants.

You can use various methods to get rid of pests. One option is to use insecticides that have been specially developed for houseplants. These may be available in the form of sprays or granules. Another option is to use natural pesticides such as neem oil or a mixture of water and washing-up liquid. These can be sprayed on the plants to kill the pests.

To avoid diseases such as mold or fungal infestation, it is important that you water your houseplants properly. Make sure that the soil does not become too moist, as excess water can encourage the formation of mold. It is also advisable to air the plants regularly to reduce humidity and reduce the likelihood of fungal growth.

Solutions for yellow leaves and growth problems

Yellow leaves can be a sign of excessive watering or a lack of nutrients. Reduce the amount of water and check the nutrient content of the soil. If your plants are not growing properly or their leaves are wilting, they may be receiving too much or too little light. Change the position of your plants to meet optimal light requirements.

It is important that houseplants receive enough light to grow healthily. Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light coming through a window or door. If your plants don't get enough light, their leaves can turn yellow and growth can be affected. In this case, you can use an artificial light source such as a plant lamp to meet your plants' light requirements.

Another possible reason for yellow leaves and growth problems can be a lack of nutrients. Houseplants need certain nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to grow healthily. Check the nutrient content of the soil and supplement it with a suitable fertilizer if necessary. However, be careful not to overuse the fertilizer, as this can lead to over-fertilization.

With the right plants and the right care, you can transform your living room into a green oasis. Choose plants that suit your personal taste and give your living room the atmosphere you want. Have fun observing your plants and developing your green thumb skills!

There is a wide variety of houseplants to choose from. Some popular houseplants are the green lily, which is characterized by its long, green leaves, and the rubber tree, which has large, shiny leaves. Zamioculcas is another popular houseplant that requires little light and water and is therefore ideal for beginners.

It is important that you regularly care for your houseplants to ensure they stay healthy. This includes regular watering, removing dead leaves and repotting when the plant gets too big for its current pot. Also make sure that your houseplants are not placed near draughts or radiators, as this can lead to dryness.

Caring for houseplants can also be a relaxing and stress-reducing activity. Watching your plants grow and tending to their needs can give you a sense of fulfillment. It can also help to improve the air quality in your living room as plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.