As we’ve started to settle into this unexpected break from normal life, we’re spending more time than ever at home and, like most people, longing to get out into the great outdoors whenever possible. I am 100% an outdoor person, given the choice its where I am happiest. There are days when I really struggle with the current situation, but one thing that I am so very grateful for are my houseplants and garden, giving me that much-needed connection with mother nature.

Now more than ever it’s a perfect time to start a little house plant collection. Having a bit of the outdoors indoors has some huge health benefits and of course house plants look amazing too! From the healing powers of the Aloe Vera to the air purifying qualities of the Peace Lily, they can bring a little zen to your home and help you breathe easier too. And whether you’re a plant veteran or a new plant parent, there’s something out there for everyone just waiting to brighten up your day.

Having plants indoors also helps to bring you back to nature, which is definitely a good thing right now. When we are feeling a little low it’s amazing how a stroll in the park or woodland, or even just a little time in your garden can work wonders lifting your spirits. Numerous studies show how even just a small amount of time in nature can help reduce mental fatigue, stress and blood pressure, increase feelings of relaxation and bring a sense of calm. Having a few leafy friends around the home is an easy way to reap the benefits.

It may seem far-fetched that having a few house plants could have such huge effects on your well-being, but just the simple act of tending to your plants, watching them grow new leaves, and the look of the beautiful foliage around the house makes a big difference to your daily life. Mine make me smile every day.

So no matter where you live, whether a tiny apartment or a spacious house, an indoor plant will make a world of difference. A plant can instantly wake up a room, literally breathing life into a space and nature into your home.

Some low-maintenance plants to start you off

Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas of plants that are easy to look after and hard to kill!

1. Spider plant - Chlorophytum Comosum “vittatum”. Spider plants are one of the easiest plants to look after and can grow very quickly in a variety of conditions. A bi-weekly watering will suffice, natural light is essential but no direct sunlight and this cheerful chappy will be more than happy!

2. Peace Lily - Spathiphyllum. The humble peace lily comes with a NASA approved air purification score of 7.5, which is enough to tell you that this little gem is perfect for fighting indoor air pollutants. Very easy to grow, keep them in the shade and water once a week to keep this plant at peace.

3. Snake plant - Sansevieria Trifasciata. This beauty of a plant is easily recognisable by its sharp, pointy leaves, hence the name. You may also know it as Mother-in-law’s tongue! It’s easy to care for, needs very little attention and can go weeks without water. That makes it perfect for anyone who is a new plant parent. It’s also a great green friend to have in your bedroom as it releases oxygen.

4. Dracaena - there are many different varieties in the Dracaena family and they are a great addition to the home, coming in a range of lovely colours! With long striped leaves growing out of a small stem, some members of this lovely looking plant family can grow up to 12ft tall, perfect if you are going for the indoor jungle look! It needs little sunlight and moderate water to thrive

5. Aloe Vera - A Barbadensis. Aloe Vera’s have so many health benefits, from anti-inflammatory properties to air-purifying qualities, plus antibacterial gel inside the leaves. That makes the Aloe a handy plant to have around'; very easy to keep happy with bright light and moderate watering, just ensure it has proper drainage to thrive. Make sure you don’t overwater it and that its never left in standing water.

Have fun, happy planting and I hope you get as much joy from them as I do.

Lou xx