Every room benefits from that bright pop of greenery. A kitchen is a place where we spend most of our time and is considered the heart of the home. It stands to reason that it should be bright and inviting to be in. So, why not brighten up this space or put in some calming effects with kitchen plants!
Plants are awesome at purifying the air and reducing air pollutants. Some studies conclude that plants may boost creativity, too, which may inspire you to create a new recipe or improve an existing one.
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Things to Consider
Before purchasing a plant, consider which way the windows face to determine which plant will work best. South-facing windows work well for plants that require bright light. East and west-facing windows can work for these plants, too, but the natural light is less vibrant.
If the kitchen does not receive much sunlight, there are still some plants you can incorporate into this space. Plants can thrive in low light and no light conditions. You just have to know which ones to purchase.
Additionally, you can mount LED grow lights under cabinets to provide light and don’t give off heat.
You also need to know what type of maintenance you are willing to put into the plant. Do you require a low maintenance plant, hardy plant, want to reap the benefits, or use it as an accent piece?
Several plants require little to no maintenance. Some are almost impossible to kill! The following plants made our top ten list in terms of kitchen plants.
Aloe Vera Plants
Aloe vera plants are very sturdy and require minimal effort to maintain. Affectionately referred to as the “plant of immortality”, it is just one of those plants that are difficult to kill. So, if you have a brown thumb, this plant will be easy to maintain.
The aloe vera plant is distinctive. It is full of minerals and vitamins that benefit the skin. It aids in the quick healing of burns (great for sunburn, too!) and provides an instant cooling effect.
To treat a burn, cut off a lower leaf close to the stalk. Remove the spines along the edges, split the leaf lengthwise, and slice the gel interior. Rub the aloe gel directly on the burn to heal it and cool it off.
Aluminum Plants
Aluminum plants accentuate stainless steel appliances with their metallic, silver leaves. You can place it in a hanging basket and keep it away from cold or hot drafts.
It is easy to take care of and creates interesting coloring in a kitchen space. The aluminum plant also saves on counter space.
Spider Plant
A spider plant is easy to care for and will thrive in many conditions. It is a hardy plant that offers minimal care. You can place a spider plant in any location in the kitchen. It can be by the window in direct sun, on the countertop in the shade, or anywhere where you need that bit of color.
Spider plants only need the occasional watering and pruning to thrive. It purifies the air, removes odors, fumes, and pollutants from the area.
Basil
Basil is easy to grow in the kitchen. It requires a lot of sunlight and moist soil and dislikes cold, drafty areas. This plant is perfect for south-facing kitchens.
The plant also thrives if harvested frequently, and you can save money by growing your own herbs.
English Ivy
English Ivy is a lush, green plant. This plant looks great hanging over the kitchen sink or in a window for that long, classic, almost ancient look. It is easy to grow indoors provided it receives adequate (direct) sunlight and provides a vibrant pop of color to the décor.
This plant helps purify the air and reduces indoor air pollution like mold/bacteria. If you have any pets, ensure you keep this plant out of their reach as it is toxic.
Peace Lily
These plants are a gorgeous complement to a kitchen, and they clean the surrounding air. They require high humidity and can tolerate underwatering. Peace lilies are best kept in an east-facing window in a bright, well-illuminated room. However, avoid placing them in direct sunlight as it will damage the plant.
Air Plant
These plants do well in terrariums or holders. They add a distinctive flair to the kitchen and are easy to care for.
Cast Iron Plant
This plant is another hardy option that’s hassle-free. This leafy, bright plant tolerates more than the average houseplant. It can flourish in areas with low light, fluctuating/extreme heat, and doesn’t require frequent watering. It is another plant that is difficult to kill.
The cast iron plant is great for the kitchen as you never know what climate may exist, the heat can fluctuate, and no matter what happens, the plant will survive and look great.
Pothos
Most kitchen plants are a form of a pothos plant. They are those trailing vines along the borders at the top of a cabinet that can handle different lighting. They can dangle lazily from shelving and cabinets to add that bit of color to the border of a room.
Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreens can withstand any indoor condition. Its long, green leaves with a silver sheen complement stainless steel appliances, or just generate interest on their own. They are low maintenance and can thrive in different levels of light.
Many of these plants are very hardy and survive well with minimal effort. They can withstand infrequent watering and are difficult to kill. They can survive in the harshest environments and still thrive.
Which plant is best for you depends on the direction your windows face for some plants, and how much effort you want to put into maintenance. While all these plants are relatively low maintenance, you may want to consider one that compliments your décor and style. Also, you may want to consider the benefits of some of these plants. The decision is up to you.