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Tags: Advice, Biophilic design, Design, Office, Plants, Workplace

The Role of Planting in Achieving WELL Certification

The Role of Planting in Achieving WELL Certification

The WELL Building Standard has become one of the most recognised global benchmarks for health and wellbeing in the built environment. For organisations, achieving WELL certification is not only about meeting compliance but about creating spaces that actively support the people who use them.

What is the WELL Building Standard?

The WELL Building Standard is a global framework for designing and operating buildings that put human health and wellbeing at the centre. It was launched by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) in 2014 and has since been adopted in offices, schools, healthcare, and residential projects worldwide.

Unlike certifications that focus mainly on energy or environmental performance, WELL looks at how the built environment affects people. The standard is organised into categories such as air, water, light, comfort, and mind; each with specific features that buildings can meet to earn points.

Certification is awarded at four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. To achieve a higher rating, projects must meet mandatory “preconditions” and then add extra “optimisation” features that earn points. 

HOW CAN PLANTING CONTRIBUTE TO WELL CERTIFICATION?

Within the WELL framework it directly supports both the mandatory requirements and the optional points needed for higher levels of certification. By bringing nature into the workplace, businesses can address several WELL categories at once, including air quality, mental health, and restorative environments.

At the most basic level, plants are required to meet the standard’s preconditions for incorporating the natural environment. Beyond that, they also contribute to optimisations that can take a building from standard certification to Platinum. 

Planting can be the difference between meeting the minimum requirements and achieving the highest level of WELL certification.

WAYS PLANTERIA CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE WELL CERTIFICATION

Below are the ways planting is required for WELL certification, as well as how it can be used to gain extra points for projects aiming for Platinum.

MANDATORY FEATURES

(Needed to get WELL standard)

To achieve the base standard of WELL building, the following plant related features are mandatory.

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INCORPORATING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

(MO2 Nature & Place)

Must include either Plants (potted plants, plant beds, living walls), water feature or Nature views.

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SUPPORTIVE MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS

(M01 Mental Health Promotion)

Education or awareness efforts on mental health & wellbeing (Planteria offer training on biophilia and using nature to aid wellbeing.)

Dedicated space for restoration & relaxation (Recommended including planting)

EXTRA POINTS AVAILABLE

(Needed to achieve platinum)

To achieve Platinum standard, you need to make up a specific number of points.  This can be achieved with planting through the following ways.

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ENCOURAGE STAIR USE

(V03 Circulation Network)

Natural design elements i.e. plants, water features or images of nature can encourage staff to take the stairs.

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WELLNESS PROMOTION

(C07 Enhanced Health & Wellness Promotion)

Offer education of the WELL concepts. Education or awareness efforts on mental health & wellbeing (Planteria offer training on biophilia and using nature to aid wellbeing.)

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RESTORATION & RELIEF SPACES

(M07 Restorative Spaces)

Promote access to restoration and relief spaces

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EXTERIOR BUILDING WALLS

(V05 Site Planning & Selection)

Incorporate biophilic design elements (i.e. plants, water features, nature patterns, natural building materials on all exterior building walls

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INCORPORATING NATURE INSIDE

(M09 Enhanced Access to Nature)

To meet this criteria, you must provide a combination of indoor plants (e.g. potted plants, plant beds, living walls) water features or nature views:

  • Within direct line of sight of at least 75% of all workstations and meeting room seats
  • Within 10m of all workstations and meeting room seats

EXAMPLES IN PRACTICE

Planteria has already supported projects that have achieved WELL certification by integrating planting into their design.

JLL Birmingham
(WELL Platinum Certified)

A mix of freestanding planters, cabinet‑top arrangements, and overhead plant displays helped transform this low‑carbon workspace. Planting contributed to the project’s Platinum certification by meeting “Nature & Place” features and enhancing restorative areas.

Read the full case study

Goodwin
(Aiming for WELL Gold)

For Goodwin’s London HQ, Planteria delivered a biophilic scheme inspired by “West Coast warmth.” Highlights included a 4 m atrium tree, integrated joinery planting, and a rooftop wildflower wall that supports pollinators. These elements supported both BREEAM Excellent and WELL Gold aspirations.

Read the full case study

Rabobank
(WELL Platinum Certified)

Bespoke joinery planting, curved troughs, and freestanding planters softened the office layout. A signature Philodendron ‘Prince of Orange’ mix was chosen to reflect brand identity, while preserved moss art reinforced the bank’s values.

Read the full case study

WELL certification is about designing spaces that prioritise people’s health and wellbeing. Planting plays a vital role in this journey. 

By integrating greenery thoughtfully, businesses can create workplaces that not only achieve certification but also foster happier, healthier, and more productive teams.

Planteria’s experience across WELL projects shows that planting is a strategic choice that supports both people and performance.

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WELL CERTIFICATION FAQ'S

WELL Certification is a global building standard focused on health and wellbeing. It measures how a workplace supports people’s physical and mental health, covering air, water, light, movement, comfort, and connection to nature.

 

Plants directly support the “Nature & Place” feature, a mandatory part of WELL. They bring natural elements indoors, which helps reduce stress, improve air quality, and create restorative spaces.

 

Yes. Thoughtful planting can contribute to multiple WELL features, from mental wellbeing to comfort and air quality. This means greenery can not only meet the basic requirements but also help boost a project’s overall score.

 

Studies show plants can lower stress, support concentration, and encourage positive moods. In workplaces, this translates into happier teams, reduced absence, and better productivity.

 

The choice depends on light levels, layout, and maintenance needs. Common WELL project selections include resilient species like Kentia palms, Ficus, and Strelitzia, along with living walls for strong visual impact.

 

Yes, in some form. To achieve WELL Certification, projects must include visible natural elements. Planting is the most effective and flexible way to meet this requirement.

 

Planteria designs and installs tailored planting schemes that align with WELL features. Our experience across certified projects means we know how to integrate greenery strategically to support both people and performance.

 

Planting delivers long-term value well beyond certification. Healthy greenery continues to improve air quality, wellbeing, and workplace atmosphere long after the certificate is awarded.
Tags: Advice, Biophilia, Biophilic design, FAQ, green walls, Office

The Complete Guide to Green Walls

The Complete Guide to Green Walls

Green walls (also called living walls or vertical gardens) are installations of plants on vertical surfaces. They appear indoors or outdoors, from office feature walls to full building facades.

Green walls bring several benefits. They improve air quality, reduce noise and add visual interest. 

Inside, they can soften acoustics and lift staff mood. Research links greenery with lower stress and faster recovery.

On exteriors, they help cool buildings by shading and evaporative cooling – cutting wall temperatures by up to 14°C (25°F). 

This guide covers every type of green wall: indoor and outdoor, living and artificial. 

It includes design tips, light level advice, maintenance needs, costs and common questions.

Interior Green Wall Systems

Interior green walls add vegetation to indoor spaces like lobbies, conference rooms and offices. Below are the main categories of interior walls, each with its features, uses, pros, cons and care notes.

Exterior Green Wall Systems​​

Exterior green walls and facades bring plant life to the outside of buildings. They must withstand weather and often provide building insulation and habitat.

Lighting Requirements

Interior living walls need adequate light. Most wall plants require at least 1000 lux at the leaf surface to thrive. In practical terms, this often means installing full-spectrum LED grow lights above the wall. The lights should provide both blue (∼430–440 nm) and red (∼640–660 nm) wavelengths for photosynthesis, though the lighting can be tuned to emit a pleasing white light (for good colour rendering and aesthetics). Light uniformity is important: designers aim for a ratio of minimum/maximum illuminance ≥0.33 so that all plants receive some light.

In technical terms, lighting is measured by Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD). A target PPFD of about 35 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ on the foliage is recommended for green walls. Over a full day, plants often need a Daily Light Integral (DLI) of roughly 1.5–4 mol·m⁻²·d⁻¹ (the exact need depends on the plant species). In many offices, natural daylight (even from windows) falls short of this, so supplemental LEDs are used. Work with a lighting engineer or horticultural lighting specialist to calculate lamp power and placement.

Lighting Checklist:
  • Provide LED fixtures rated for plant growth (or use high-CRI white LEDs).
  • Mount lights 1–2 m from the wall for even coverage.
  • Avoid UV-heavy lighting indoors (green wall plants don’t need UV and extra UV can cause fast, ungainly growth).
  • Use timers to give plants ~10–14 hours of light per day (mimicking natural days).
  • In daylight zones, choose plants suited to the light level (shade-loving ferns versus sun-loving bromeliads)
Green wall in an office setting. Ans living green wall with lights and office chairs and table

Planning and Installation Considerations

Before installing any green wall, careful planning is crucial. Key considerations include:

  • Structural Support: Assess the load-bearing capacity of the wall or support structure. A fully saturated green wall can weigh at least 50–100 kg/m² . A structural engineer should verify that the wall and anchorage can handle this weight plus wind or seismic loads. For light planters, ground-anchored frames may suffice; for heavy cladding systems, special hangers and infill panels are used.
  • Waterproofing and Drainage: Any irrigation leaks can damage the building. Install a waterproof membrane or gutter behind the green wall to collect overflow. Provide proper drainage lines to carry excess water safely away. In exterior walls, plan for stormwater connection or soakaway (for interior, a drip tray and drain to plumbing).
  • Irrigation System: Most living walls require an irrigation pump and control unit. The pump, pipes, and possibly a nutrient reservoir often live in a nearby cabinet or “plant room”. Ensure you have space and access for this equipment. Plan piping routes from a water source and to the wall, and include backflow prevention as needed. In cold climates, winterize exposed pipes.
  • Orientation and Environment: Consider sunlight, wind, and heat. South/west walls receive intense sun and can support more sun-loving plants, whereas north walls need shade-tolerant species. Also note any heat sources (e.g. windows, HVAC vents) that might stress plants. Plan for microclimate: walls under eaves get rain, exposed facades dry out quickly. 
  • Access for Maintenance: Life safety is key – plan how gardeners will reach the wall. Include scaffolding anchors, permanent catwalks, or ensure space for lifts. Design for occasional removal of panels or trimming from a platform.
  • Safety and Codes: Check fire codes (some panels must meet Class B-s3,d2 ratings for cladding). Use materials rated for interior use if inside, or UV/weather-resistant products outside. In some jurisdictions, green facades or certain heights may require permits or consultations.
  • Electrical and Other Services: Indoor green walls may need lighting or pumps – plan electrical circuits. Ensure any electrical equipment is rated for the damp environment of a green wall.
  • Integration: Coordinate with other building systems. For example, make sure irrigation water can connect to building plumbing. Avoid routing irrigation over electrical fixtures. Incorporate the green wall into the architectural design (e.g. make irrigation controls accessible, integrate base planters as furniture).

By addressing these factors up front, you ensure the green wall will perform reliably.

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Maintenance and Aftercare

Ongoing care is essential for long-term success. Living walls require routine inspections and horticultural upkeep similar to a garden or greenhouse. Below are the typical maintenance tasks:

  • Regular Watering/Irrigation Checks: Verify that drip tubes or hydroponic lines are flowing. Check timers and sensors. In hydroponic systems, replenish nutrient solution and monitor pH. In soil systems, ensure the medium remains moist (but not waterlogged). If the wall is outdoors, adjust watering for season (more in summer, less in winter).
  • Pruning and Trimming: Trim back any overgrown plants to maintain design shape and light exposure. Remove dead or diseased foliage promptly. In high-growth species, monthly pruning is common.
  • Plant Replacement: Replace plants that die or fail to thrive. A good plant company will include free plants replacement in their maintenance contract.
  • Cleaning Filters and Drippers: Clean or replace filters, flush lines to prevent algae or mineral buildup (especially in hydroponic or hard-water areas). This prevents clogs and root rot.
  • Fertilization: Depending on the system, add fertilizer to the irrigation water or apply to soil periodically. Many green wall plants are light feeders, but replenishing nutrients ensures vigor.
  • Inspect Structure: Check that panels and supports remain securely attached. Look for leaks, eroded support brackets, or corrosion. Repair any membrane damage immediately to prevent water ingress.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Watch for insects (aphids, scale) and fungal issues.  Since plant density is high, infestations can spread rapidly if unchecked.
  • Seasonal Tasks: In climates with cold winters, plants may need some protection (e.g. remove sensitive species or use temporary covers). In summer heat, increase irrigation frequency. Remove leaf litter or debris that accumulates on the wall.

Overall, consistency is key. The long-term success of a living wall is dependent upon a robust maintenance and care program. Neglecting maintenance will quickly lead to plant loss and system problems.

Inspiration and Gallery

Explore what’s possible with green walls – real projects, real impact.

Some Frequently asked Questions

A green wall (also called a living wall or vertical garden) is a vertical surface covered with plants. It can be inside or outside, and may use live, artificial, or preserved greenery.

Green walls improve air quality, reduce noise, boost wellbeing, and enhance building aesthetics. Outdoors, they also cool buildings and support biodiversity.

A living wall is a type of green wall that uses real plants, water, and nutrients. “Green wall” is a broader term that can also include artificial and preserved moss systems.

Living walls, artificial walls, preserved moss walls, living pictures, and mobile green dividers are all popular in office spaces. The best type depends on light levels, budget, and maintenance capacity.

Yes. Most living walls need at least 1000 lux at plant level. In darker areas, full-spectrum LED grow lights are usually installed.

Living walls require regular watering, pruning, plant replacement, and irrigation checks. A maintenance contract is recommended for consistent care.

Yes. You can use artificial green walls or preserved moss walls, both of which need no light. Living walls can work too, if fitted with grow lights.

These are freestanding plant panels on wheels or stable bases. They divide space while adding greenery and can be moved or reconfigured easily.

Outdoor living walls use robust frames and irrigation systems. They attach to buildings or freestanding structures and use climate-suited plants to create living facades.

Yes. Studies show green walls can reduce exterior wall temperatures by up to 14°C. This can lower internal cooling demand and improve energy efficiency.

Yes. Artificial green walls and ivy screens require little upkeep. Wildflower walls need seasonal care but are designed for biodiversity rather than appearance.

Saturated living walls can weigh 50–100 kg per square metre. Always check structural capacity with an engineer before installation.

Key requirements include a load-bearing surface, waterproofing, drainage, irrigation system, and adequate lighting. Maintenance access must also be considered.

Costs vary by size, system type, and complexity. Living walls have higher upfront and maintenance costs. Artificial and moss walls are cheaper long-term.

Exterior installations might, depending on size, height, and local regulations. Interior walls generally don’t. Always check with your local planning authority.

Typical contracts include watering, fertilisation, pruning, plant replacement, pest checks, irrigation system checks, and structural inspections.

It's possible, but professional maintenance is recommended to ensure irrigation, lighting, and plant health are managed properly.

Yes, when designed well. Living walls can reduce heat gain, capture rainwater, and support biodiversity. Using UK-grown plants and peat-free media can further reduce environmental impact.

It’s a real moss installation treated with natural preservatives. It stays soft and green without growing, and doesn’t need water, light, or soil.

High-quality panels can be very realistic, especially from a short distance. However, up close, it is almost always possible to tell they are not real.  They’re best for low-light or low-maintenance settings where a real wall wouldn't be practical.

 A living picture is a framed arrangement of live plants, hung like artwork. It’s a compact green wall suited to small or decorative spaces.
Tags: Advice, Environment, Plants, Tips & Advice

6 Plants That Induce Office Relaxation

6 Plants That Induce Office Relaxation

Recent reports have shed light on the growing concern of relax problems affecting a significant portion of the population. 

While the exact statistics may vary, it’s undeniable that relax-related issues can have far-reaching implications, impacting various aspects of life.

The discussion on relaxing, mental health, and physical well-being is now more prominent than ever. We are here to provide relaxing plants that can be incorporated into the office.

Workplace experience program by planteria group

Relaxing Plants for the Workplace

There are many things that you can do to improve your sleep. You could avoid taking caffeinated products and drinks before bedtime, engage in relaxing activities before bed, and set regular times to encourage good habits, but you could also consider adding some plant life to your bedroom. Improving your sleep quality can involve several lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing caffeine intake, practicing relaxation techniques, and adhering to a consistent sleep schedule.

However, one often overlooked remedy is the introduction of indoor plants to your office, and as experts in indoor plants and corporate flowers, we’re here to help you create a more tranquil workspace.

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Lavender: The Scent of Serenity

Lavender is renowned for its soothing fragrance, scientifically proven to reduce blood pressure and heart rate. If bedtime anxiety is a common challenge, fresh lavender by your desk might be the answer. Its calming scent and vibrant colour can set the mood for a peaceful night.

Lavender plants thrive with warmth and sunlight, making them an excellent addition to your office’s windowsill. Biophilic design is important to us and the placement of pants in the office is key and needs to work for both plant and office.

Purple flowers

(Sansevieria) Snake Plant: Breathing Easier

Air quality can significantly impact your sleep quality. Excessive moisture can elevate humidity levels and contribute to mould and dust mites, causing discomfort. Snake plants excel at oxygenating your office space, improving air quality by removing harmful chemicals like xylene, trichloroethylene, toluene, benzene, and formaldehyde.

Barrier plant, snake plant

Peace Lily: A Humidity Hero

Overly dry air can be as disruptive as excessive humidity. Peace lilies come to the rescue by increasing humidity levels by up to 5%, reducing issues like dry skin, static electricity, and vulnerability to colds.

A peace lily will not require much watering or light, so you can keep it right next to your bed without worrying that it has enough resources.

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Planteria group

Aloe Vera: A Relaxing Plant Oxygen Supplier

Aloe vera, famous for its soothing properties, produces oxygen during the night, enhancing the office environment.

It’s low-maintenance and can be placed next to your desk, soaking in the daylight alongside your lavender.

Areca Palm: The Office Air Purifier

Known for its exceptional air-purifying capabilities, the areca palm removes toxins from the air and acts as a natural humidifier, maintaining optimal air quality while you work. This plant requires a lot of bright but indirect light. If the light is too harsh, the leaves will turn yellow. 

Keep your areca palm healthy by keeping the soil moist during the spring and summer, allowing it to dry out between watering in autumn and winter.

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English Ivy: A Shield Against Dampness

For offices struggling with dampness, English ivy is a formidable ally. Its sprawling leaves efficiently collect airborne mould, protecting your respiratory health.

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Are Relaxing Plants Harmful in the Office?

Contrary to concerns, most indoor plants are not harmful to keep in your office. In fact, they produce oxygen and help maintain healthy air quality. These relaxing plants, far from being harmful, are conducive to a calming and productive work environment. Discover the benefits of incorporating plants into your workplace.

When it comes to stress relief and relaxation in the office, a touch of nature can make all the difference. Transform your workspace into an oasis of serenity with our expertly curated indoor office plant selection.

 

Read More

Discover ways to enhance your office environment with our expert insights on biophilic design, wellbeing, sustainability and the world of plants.

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Tags: Advice, Biophilic design, Plants, Workplace wellness

Biophilia & other Reasons to Have Plants in the Workplace

If you’ve been reading about the buzzword Biophilia but have yet to understand what the buzz is about, then we’ve made a helpful infographic for you, designed to show you the amazing relationships that can occur between workers and plants in the modern office.

Plants truly are amazing. If you’re looking to improve your office space with some smart greenery, why not enhance your office with our office plants for hire service. Impress your workers and guests with an outstanding boardroom, ensure that they remember you as an innovative and forward-thinking company by transforming your spaces into greener, healthier, places to enjoy working in.

Planteria group infographic

And if you’re interested in reading more about the joys of biophilia and the many benefits of plants, we have plenty of blogs to keep you up-to-date on the latest hints, tips and news:

   Biophilia – What is It and Why is it Important

   Indoor Air Quality: Facts & How to Improve

   The Best Plants for Your Office Environment

   Biophilic Design in the Workplace

Tags: Advice, Flowers in the Office, Reception

An Exclusive Look at Contemporary Office Flower Arrangements

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When considering flower displays and office flowers, there are a number of factors to keep in mind.

Colour, scent and size of your flowers are just some of these factors, and all of these can easily contribute to a healthier and happier working environment.

 

The Benefits of Having Flowers in Your Office Space

Plants adorning contemporary office waiting area

As discussed in our recent blog post, 10 Tips for Workplace Wellness, utilising flowers and plants in the office increases productivity, reduces stress and provides cleaner air, helping your employees to have a more comfortable day at work.

Flowers and plants are visually stimulating, encouraging reduced stress levels in the individual, whilst also creating a welcoming environment for any visitors which you may have to your office.

Biophilia, which is the science behind the need to align ourselves with nature, is gaining recognition, and with it’s intrinsic ‘feel-good’ benefits having a positive impact on people in the workplace, it is clear to see why.

Having flower and plant arrangements provided by Planteria is an easy way to accomplish this.

 

Keeping Flowers on Trend

We recognise the importance of keeping flowers and plants in line with seasonal demands.

Just as in a good restaurant you’d expect to find the freshest, seasonal produce, you’d expect any good florist to have an innate understanding of the seasonality and quality of flower varieties.

This idea influences all of our corporate flower arrangements, where fresh, original and seasonal flowers are used consistently throughout the year, providing only the best flowers and plants for a stunning contemporary arrangement.

 

Contemporary Arrangements

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Today’s, arrangements tend to have fewer restrictions and vary depending on the time of year and the environment in which they are going to be situated in. For an office, examples of case studies show the difference that our flower arrangements can make to your company.

If you are working with a large amount of space, it might be worthwhile looking at the possibility of Planteria’s office plants service rather than flower arrangements. Due to their standard larger size, plants are perfect to optimise space when you think a pop of natural colour is needed.

We can offer assistance and suggestions of different planters and colour schemes too, ensuring that your plants look brilliant amidst the daily routines of your company. If physical space is limited, or a greater assortment of colour is required, opting for bright and bold flower arrangements might be more beneficial (and noticeable!).

As is common with any contemporary flower arrangement, the traditional rules do not apply. Contemporary arrangements are brighter, bolder in form, there is no size restriction, other than budget allows, and no set patterns are to be expected.

Symmetrical balance is emphasised, creating an even arrangement which is pleasing to the eye, and any part of the design may be the dominant focal point.

Take a look at how colourful office plants and contemporary corporate flower arrangements can improve the look of your office:

The options are endless when it comes to Planteria’s flowers for offices and, in such an important environment, with several health and work benefits included, the answer is clear.

Contact our friendly team of experts today by calling 0345 505 3333 or emailing enquiries@planteriagroup.com.

Tags: Advice, Biophilic design, Plants, Workplace

Moss Walls: Q & A

Xnewsthumbresizex481 Greenery is much sought-after in today’s workplaces and within the hospitality industry, not only because it enhances a space visually, but it also has positive effects on health & wellbeing. There are numerous studies about boosting mental wellbeing, increasing productivity & creativity and for those in the Hospitality industry a new report indicates that having more greenery in reception areas can increase the amount of time spent in these areas, translating to more revenue generated for your business (Human Spaces Biophilic Design In Hospitality report). There are several benefits to choosing a moss wall in your workspace, including the fact that they are completely maintenance-free.  Working within facilities management, business & hospitality sectors, we can offer bespoke moss walls with your company logo or corporate colours and we can help you achieve the look you’re after, even in the smallest of spaces. Moss Walls are in high-demand, and we’ve asked our resident moss wall experts some questions to help explain what they are, how to look after them and more.   Q:   What is the difference between a moss wall and a living wall? A:   Living Walls are made up from live plants planted in modular compartments and require regular maintenance, with an irrigation system is built into the wall. Moss Walls are made from moss that has been preserved, so it won’t grow anymore, and it won’t decompose.   Q: How is the moss preserved? A: This is like asking a chef for a recipe!  The moss is usually preserved with glycerine.  The moss is then washed though using food grade type colourants, so not to be harmful in anyway, and to ensure the colour stays vibrant.   Q:   Do moss walls require water & light? A:   No, Moss Walls can go anywhere internally and no water or light is required.  This is one of the benefits of choosing a moss wall.   Q: What level of maintenance is required for a moss wall? A: No maintenance at all is required for Moss Walls other than a spot of dusting every now and then. (we recommend a feather duster)   Q:  How long does a moss wall last? A:  Moss walls are long lasting installations and will need the least care and repair if they are in lower traffic areas where they won’t get touched or bumped into.   Q:    What are my choices for a moss wall? Are there different types and colours of moss?   A:  The moss we use is available in 16 different colours, and we can create client logos or other patterns in the walls if desired (as seen in the photo above).   Q: Where can it be installed, is it suited to some environments more than others? A: Moss can be installed in any interior location, for aesthetic enhancement and/or for sound absorption.  They are not recommended for exterior use   Q:   What are the benefits of a moss wall?   A: Moss walls can help with noise reduction, they require minimal maintenance, they add greenery and a biophilic design element, help increase productivity & creativity, adds a feel-good factor to those in the space, promotes calmness and wellness and much more.   Do you have other questions not listed here?  If so, let us know so that we can answer them for you. Request your FREE quote for a moss wall today: https://www.planteriagroup.com/free-quote/

Tags: Advice, Plant care tips, Plants

5 Things You Should Never Do to Your Office Plants

5 Things You Should Never Do to Your Office Plants

5 things you should never do to your office plants

Office plants can be great for reducing office stress, promoting productivity and creating a welcoming working environment. But plants require a certain level of care to ensure they stay healthy and thrive. Here we look at 5 things you should never do if you want to keep your office plants alive:

1. Give Them too Much Water

It’s possible to kill a plant with kindness. Too much water for your office plant can be just as bad as forgetting to water it at all. Different plants require different water levels, and you’ll know if your plant is getting too much water, because its leaves will look limp, turn yellow and fall off.

One problem with overwatering comes from placing plants on dishes allowing them to sit in a puddle after being watered, leading to potential root rot. The best method for watering a plant is to give it a good drench over a sink and then let the excess water drain away. Alternatively, you can place the plant on a dish but pour the excess water away after about ten minutes.

Person watering plant which is in yellow plant pot using jug

2. Let Them Finish Your Drink

One of the worst things you could do for your office is to ‘feed’ the plant the dregs from your cup of coffee or tea. Not only does this contribute to overwatering them, but this could cause the plant to attract sciarid flies. Similar to fruit flies, these bothersome things germinate quickly and will annoy everyone in the office.

When watering your office plant, just use water, and make sure no one in the office is using it as a make-shift sink for their beverage waste.

 

3. Keep Them in Suboptimal Conditions

Plants can feel the rise and drop in temperature just like you do and kept in the wrong conditions the plant will be unable to thrive. However, given that most indoor plants are native to tropical temperatures where conditions are warmer than what most of our gardens will experience, the temperature within your office should be a good match to help them grow.

But you should be aware of the optimal temperature range for your species of plant. Some potential problems can arise, such as keeping plants on a windowsill – whilst great for light and warmth, cold draughts in the winter can cause problems – or any sudden drops in temperature or prolonged periods of cold. Keep your plant in a good spot, where they have enough light, ideally daylight, and away from fluctuating heat. Keep an eye out for signs the temperature might be incorrect, such as flowers dying, and yellowing, wilting and falling leaves.

Plant in stone plant pot on window sill

4. Let Them Overgrow

There are several reasons to prune your office plants. You might need to trim away dead leaves or branches to keep the plant presentable. You might prune to encourage a more balanced growth habit, or you might prune to keep a runaway plant from taking over the office. Whatever the reason, you should take steps when pruning to encourage healthy growth. Pruning encourages healthy growth and should be done periodically when needed. You should be able to find out information about your plant species, regarding how and when to prune.

5. House Them Incorrectly

Plants have an ideal home in mind, just like us. Housed in the wrong place, plant growth can be stunted by a lack of light, or their leaves can become bleached from too much light. Be sure to research your office plant species to determine the levels of light needed. Consider having a light metre for the office to determine how much light you get in various places and house your office plants accordingly.

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Contact Us

Of course, the easiest thing to do is to leave it to the experts! Here at Planteria we have over 40 years of experience of finding the perfect office plants for every type of office or corporate environment. We provide a full office plant rental, plant design and maintenance service ensuring that your plants are healthy and well cared for all year round.

If you have any questions or would like to talk to us about any of our services such as corporate flower displays at Planteria Group, do not hesitate to contact us today – we will be happy to help.

Tags: Advice, Plants, Succulents

Top Ways You Can Create Stunning Succulent Displays

Succulents in antique bird cage

Succulent plants are currently riding the crest of the trend wave, appearing in homes and gardens across the country.

Here we take a look at why they are so fashionable, how to care for succulents and how you can create stunning, on-trend displays for inside or outside your home.

Succulents in white compressed round bowl

How to Care for Succulents

As with all plants, the line of best practice is to replicate as far as possible their natural growing conditions. Think of the mantra, ‘right plant, right place’.

Originating from hot, arid climes, succulents are actually very low maintenance; they just need light, warmth and minimal water in order to thrive so if you’re not particularly green-fingered, succulents are the perfect choice.

Succulents in white pot, glass jar and wooden tray

If you consider that succulents are often found in desert regions, it makes sense that they don’t like to be kept for a prolonged period in saturated ground as these aren’t the conditions they would naturally experience.

Our top tip therefore is to use a general-purpose compost mixed with at least one-third horticultural grit; the open nature of the compost allows root development while the grit enables any excess water to drain away easily.

Succulents in white bowls on office desk

Keep your succulents happy by giving them a good drink once a week during the summer months and then allow the compost to dry out completely before the next watering, which will replicate a period of drought.

Another top tip is to use rainwater if possible – and this applies to all plants, not just succulents – as the minerals in tap water can cause a build-up in the soil and therefore reduce its quality in addition to staining the beautiful foliage.

 

How to Create Stunning Succulent Displays

The overwhelming majority of succulents prefer to be a sunny spot, which makes them such versatile options. The only note of caution is that, particularly in the more northern areas of the UK, most succulents aren’t winter hardy. This means they don’t like frost and will benefit from protection, either by moving them to a more sheltered position such as against a wall or bringing them inside.

During the winter, many succulents prefer to have no water at all as this enables them to enter a period of dormancy. This form of hibernation helps replenish energy for flowers for the following season, so you really do have to be cruel to be kind when it comes to succulents!

Apart from the bigger, ‘statement’ specimens, succulents are mostly compact and slow-growing which means they can be accommodated almost anywhere.

Practically any vessel can be used to plant up succulents – as long as it can safely be modified by creating a drainage hole to allow water to escape – with old teapots, wellington boots or even old bird cages being great examples of the current ‘repurposing’ trend.

Succulents in white antique looking bird cage

Succulents in white antique looking bird cage

A group of planted-up succulents together, particularly with a theme, makes a for an interesting focal point display that looks great.

You can put an individual, quirky twist into your home or garden – a great excuse not to throw that old biscuit tin away!

Continuing the theme of ‘bringing the outside in’, a terrarium planted up with succulents is perfect to create a contemporary, minimalist interior.

By dressing it with decorative stones, you can add a touch of modern elegance to your home which has the added bonus of protecting succulent leaves from splashback when watering and so avoiding staining the beautiful foliage.

A popular favourite at the moment is to create a miniature ‘fairy garden’ with the small stature of succulents being ideal to replicate a tiny world and additional accessories, such as fairy doors or pathways, are widely available to add that finishing touch.

Another current gardening trend is to utilise the vertical axis within our space. Succulents offer the perfect opportunity to do this either by creating a living roof – in which a shallow planter is fixed to the top of a structure such as a shed, for example – or by a ‘green wall’ where plants are potted up together, usually in a pre-made wall hanger. This is an especially effective trick if you only have a small outdoor area.

The succulent family is wide-ranging with thousands of varieties available so here we provide a list of our favourites to help you choose the right ones for you.

 

Statement Succulents for the Garden

The Zwartkop (aeonium arboretum) is a plant that likes to be noticed. Also known as ‘the black rose’, the dark burgundy leaves are a perfect rosette shape which can reach up to 20 inches high.
An added bonus is that during the winter, this plant produces stunning yellow flowers to provide interest all year round.

Aloe Vera, or Medicinal Aloe can be grown in a planter in the garden in summer months but is best brought inside in the winter. You probably know the many benefits of this fleshy succulent, so why not grow your own to use on  sunburned or irritated skin,, but it’s also thought to relieve constipation and even treat cancer when ingested (though these last two claims have not been scientifically proven).

Smaller Succulents for a Terrarium Display

Hens and Chicks (sempervivum tectorum) is also known as the ‘house leek’ and originates in the mountainous regions of Southern Europe. It is one of the more commonly-known succulents and is recognisable by its small clusters of rosette leaves.

The mother (hen) cluster produces reddish-purple flowers and is mat-forming if left to grow so is ideal for a living roof or great for keeping in a controlled environment such as a terrarium or other planter

The Jade Plant (crassula ovata) is a very popular succulent house plant, and it is also known as the friendship tree, lucky plant, money plant or moneytree. Much of its popularity stems from the low level of care needed; the jade plant requires little water and can survive in most indoor conditions. It is commonly used in the art of Feng Shui and believed to bring luck and wealth to the grower.

Once established as a mature plant, it forms a miniature tree-like structure, with a thick trunk and branches. Leaves are thick, fleshy and opal shaped in a deep, glossy jade green.We here at Planteria Group hope that this guide has provided you with some advice on how to care for succulents and of course some inspiration to create stunning succulent displays of your own.

Succulents in gold antique looking bird cage

Our specialism is providing plants and flowers for our Corporate clients, so if you are looking to add terrariums, succulents or plants to your office, hotel or restaurant and if you have any questions or would like to talk to one of our team about our products and services, please take a look at our website or get in touch.

Tags: Advice, Plants, Workplace

The Best Plants for Your Office Environment

Plants in large green house

In our office, if you want to take a break, there is no better way to re-charge your batteries and stretch your legs than with a couple of laps around our greenhouse. Filled with lush plants in every hue – from the broad glossy leaves of a Croton Petra, dappled with gold and red, to the soft fronds of bright green palms – there are so many varieties in every imaginable shape and size.

Run by Martin Collins and Robert Gilder, our greenhouse covers approximately 5,500 square feet and gives us the perfect conditions for housing our carefully managed stock.

When we visit a new client, we discuss their ideas, colour preferences and corporate branding. We then suggest the best varieties of plant to enhance their interior décor; working with the lighting conditions and heat levels of a building is paramount. Particularly sunny offices will need very different plants to dark offices, and we need to ensure both kinds will thrive. When we are happy that we’ve got it just right, we will order our plants in from specialist growers to arrive in time for installation.

Man at desk next to windowPlanters on wood lined wall

Having our fantastic greenhouse means we have plenty of space and the perfect environment to plant-up our new installations, in-house rather an on-site. With this approach the Plants are already beginning to become established in their planters or containers before they are delivered to the client. It’s also safer and more stable for the plants to be transported in this manner.

Our plant technicians will continue to care for our clients’ plants, even after they have been installed; their tasks may involve cleaning, feeding, cutting-back and sometimes replacing plants. In this case, a technician will use their smart phone to alert the service team and order a new plant. The plant is then placed in the technician’s own individual bay in our greenhouse, ready for the next visit to the client.

One of the biggest benefits of our greenhouse is the variety of office plants that we’re able to keep in stock. Our wide selection of plants ensures that we can respond quickly to problems, guaranteeing that our clients always have perfect plants in their offices and receptions.

Here’s a small selection of the office plants we keep in our greenhouse:

Ficus Benjamina – commonly known as weeping fig, benjamin fig or Ficus tree
Howea Forsteriana – commonly known as Kentia palm
Dracaena Janet Craig – commonly known as dragon tree
Dracaena Marginata – commonly known as Madagascar dragon tree
Yucca – specifically perennial shrubs and trees, often confused with root vegetables by the same name
Agloenema – commonly known as Chinese evergreens
Sanseviera – Common names include mother-in-law’s tongue, devil’s tongue, jinn’s tongue, bow string hemp, snake plant and snake tongue
Guzmania – commonly known as tufted airplant
Plus a wide variety of indoor orchids

Pink orchids in black glazed plant pot

Along with our greenhouse at our Henham HQ, we also have polytunnels for storing exterior planting, such as the popular Buxus and seasonal bedding plants, plus a floristry workshop which is approximately 2000 square feet and specialist cold-stores to ensure optimal storage for fresh flowers.

So, as you can see, we’re fully equipped to store and maintain the very best plants for your office environment. If you’d like us to create some beautiful interior planting for you, give us a call to find out more about our office plant service. We love what we do and would love to help you.

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