Athena’s plant collection at her desk.
Anyone who has stepped foot in our Jamaica Plain office knows that we are plant lovers – from the kitchen to our desk areas you will find a multitude of potted plants in nearly every corner.
We are lucky to have windows along both sides of our office, allowing people to harness the natural light to care for their plants, which in turn care for their own well-being. Having plants in the office brings so much joy to many of our staff members, giving them a little taste of nature to admire during the workday, as well as something to look after.
We recently had our second plant swap in the office, where we shared clippings with each other and were able to re-pot and rehome different plants. Below are some thoughts from our staff about how plants enhance their in-office experience.
Keihly:
I love having plants in my periphery. I use them to give my eyes a break from the screen and I like watching their progress growing. They simply give me joy!
Athena:
Biophilic design studies have proven that the incorporation of plants and natural elements improve focus and well-being, not to mention better temperature regulation and air quality. The root of the matter is, plants bring joy! Watching them grow, bloom, and being able to share them with each other is simply fun. This plant swap I have gotten cuttings from Marylee’s “Mother of Thousands” succulent, Keihly’s “Burro’s Tail” succulent , and Gail’s hibiscus bush. Great additions to the jungle at the window sill.
Laurene:
Because plants are a part of our office culture, I’ve gone from being a plant killer to becoming a competent plant lover! It’s a fun way to connect with my colleagues and bring nature inside.
Hunter:
I like having my plants remind me to take care of myself. When I see their soil is dry, their leaves are browning, or when they need to be pruned, I think “oh maybe I also need water.” On days when I can’t take a walk outside they are my little connection to nature.
I look forward to my Monday morning routine of watering them, Mondays always need a little extra fun.
Ali and I have a “rehab” window that’s been a special bonding experience. We’ve turned around two struggling plants by putting them in this sunnier window spot. We gush over their new leaves, calling each other’s attention to the small wonders of nature.
Marylee:
I keep plants at the office instead of at home because of my kids and pets. My collection is up to nearly two dozen plants, many of which are from the generosity of my colleagues. This year I added some tomato seeds and a hibiscus cutting. I love seeing all the greenery in my background on my Zoom calls!
