Did you know that having plants in your classroom can increase your students’ cognitive function? 

Surrounding yourself with house plants has an array of benefits. Including increased classroom performance, reduced stress and anxiety reduced minor illness and absences and improved classroom community. They also great at increasing humidity and removing chemical vapors from the air. 

We’ve ranked our top 5 plants based on level of maintenance, even if you don’t have a green thumb. 

Dracaena

Dracena plants come in a variety of styles, from upright trees to wide floor plants so you’ll find a size to fit your classroom. Place in a low to medium lit area, just keep out of direct sun. Dracaenas do not like soggy soil, so water when the soil is dry an inch below the surface. To keep your plant looking its best, remove browning leaves regularly. 

Tip: Water your dracaena every 7 to 10 days to prevent brown spots from forming on the leaves.  

Lucky Bamboo

These fun plants are perfect for the classroom and the ultimate in low maintenance. Bamboo can grow in any lighting condition, but needs to stay out of direct sunlight. Watering is easy. Fill your bamboo container with water and monitor the level. As long as the roots are submerged you’re good. 

Fun Fact: Lucky Bamboo is actually a variety of Dracena called Dracaena Sanderiana. 

Chinese Evergreen

Chinese  Evergreens are great for the classroom because they can handle some neglect. They tolerate almost any lighting condition except direct sun. Chinese Evergreens don’t like soggy soil, so let your plant dry out between waterings. These plants come in a variety of sizes and colors, allowing you to find the one that’s right for your room. 

Tip: The darker the leaves, the less light your plant needs. Choose a dark green variety if your classroom is dark. 

Spider Plant

Spider Plants make a versatile classroom plant. They work great in hanging baskets, on the floor, or on shelves. Spider plants do well in low to medium light and don’t require much water. When the soil is dry to the touch, water thoroughly. 

Fun Fact: Spider plants grow babies called “spiderettes”.

Succulents

If your classroom has a brightly lit window, succulents are a great low-maintenance option. These plants thrive on neglect and will do great if you forget about them for a few weeks (or months). Water your succulent sparingly. For best results, choose a plant with dark green leaves. The darker the green the less light it needs. Avoid purple and red succulents, these need a bit more care. 

Tip: Keep your succulent out of direct sunlight. The leaves can get sunburned even through a window. 

For more information on choosing the right plants for your classroom, visit any English Gardens location and talk to an expert.