Now that spring is upon us, everyone is looking for the perfect greenery. Truly, plenty of low-maintenance plants can grow inside perfectly for your senior! They will not regret brightening up the room with an herb or succulent. In addition to attractiveness, interior plant life benefits mental health and physical wellness since they convert chemicals in the air into rich oxygen. Don’t let the overwhelming task of outdoor gardening stop your senior from growing beautiful plants in their homes!
Even if your senior does not think of themselves as an avid gardener, houseplants can offer significant benefits like air purification, defense against colds, dust and allergen reduction, and a mood boost. Certain species develop best in indoor containers, especially herbs, succulents, and houseplants. If your loved one has had a hard time caring for a needy plant in the past, these options require little to no care and could easily be watered sporadically by visitors. The following options will surely make green your senior’s new favorite color!
Succulents
Succulents thrive on neglect from their owners, and they remove toxins from the air. They require little sunlight and can survive without consistent watering. The best candidates for your seniors would be a jade plant, aloe vera, or a snake plant.
Herbs
Fresh-smelling herbs can lift your senior’s mood with one whiff! They mature best if placed on the windowsill with access to light. Beware of overwatering; they may wilt or turn yellow if that becomes a problem. Besides the amazing smells, they purify the air and can be used to decorate and flavor your senior’s favorite dishes. Some of the best herbs to plant are rosemary, basil, mint, lavender, and jasmine.
Houseplants
Decorative houseplants are not as functional as herbs, but they make the air safer, especially for seniors with allergies. They need indirect sunlight and more frequent water than succulents, but the serene atmospheres they create are worth the minimal amount of attention they request. Some top contenders in this category for your senior are the Boston fern, Peace Lilly, Ficus, and English ivy. If your senior is feeling fortunate, they might even decide on a lucky bamboo plant.
We want all our residents to feel at home at Evergreen Senior Living Decatur, so we encourage horticulture efforts! Hear more about our spring activities and community events by calling (217)-864-4300.
