Your main priority in setting up your WFH space was perhaps the furniture and the tech, but could you be missing a key element? We caught up with London-based plant specialists, Leaf Envy to understand the importance of introducing plants into your workspace to help increase your productivity and reduce stress.

So, what do plants offer? In 2010, a study found that offices with plants helped employees lower tension and anxiety by 37%, reduce fatigue by 38%, and decrease depressive feelings by 58%. They also naturally purify the air. Still need more reasons? They’re proven to improve your creativity by up to 15% according to a 2015 study.

1. Snake Plant

‘This guy is the easiest going houseplant you are going to find.’ Leaf Envy

• They’re happy to live in direct sunlight or low light.
• Only require occasional watering.
• No humidity requirements.

2. Desert Candle Cacti

‘A show-stopping and hard to kill plant, who loves to bask in plenty of sunlight.’ Leaf Envy

1. They thrive in direct sunlight, often where it’s too hot for other plants.
2. Only require occasional watering.
3. Happy everywhere other than humid spots such as bathrooms.

3. Rubber Plant

‘A stunning houseplant plant with upright burgundy leaves.’ Leaf Envy

1. They love dappled or indirect sunlight. Watch out for direct sunlight as this can burn their leaves.
2. Remember to water weekly.
3. They flourish most in a humid to average humid environment. Misting this plant occasionally will help.

4. Philodendron Micans

‘Colour-shifting velvet leaves characterise this stunning trailing plant.’ Leaf Envy

1. They’re easy going with light. Happy to be in indirect, dappled or low sunlight.
2. Prefers a weekly watering. Make sure the soil is dried out before rewatering.
3. No humidity needs.
4. Top tip: Place one of these on a shelf to enjoy their trailing tendencies.

5. Chinese Money Plant

‘Easy-to-care for and eye-catching houseplant with round, flat leaves.’ Leaf Envy

1. Prefers bright, indirect light.
2. This plant appreciates a light, weekly water.
3. Best to avoid in very humid environments.

Leaf Envy share their top tips:

• Play around with different pots incorporating colour, texture and style to make your space individual. Groups of three work well in varying heights!

• If you’re into minimal, why not place a cutting in a propagation container as a feature.

• Short on space? Explore hanging a variety of plants from the ceiling in baskets and hanging pots. Grouping plants adds drama and warmth to a space.