When you think of creating the perfect studio for your clients, you’ll take a lot of things into account: lighting, design, ambiance. What about plants? Independent of yoga, plants have a lot of amazing benefits, but those benefits can add a lot to your studio: plants boost emotions, they can heal the body (really!), and some plants can even clean the air, which can affect how people feel while practicing.
As you plan your new studio design (or even re-design), contemplate these awesome plants.
Let’s discuss a few things before moving on to specific indoor plants. Generally, leafy plants purify the air better. A fern, for example, has a larger surface area, which helps in air purification. The ruffled leaves of ferns provide more surface area for gas conversion. Additionally, the many small leaves contribute to the increased surface area. Here are a few other plants you may want to consider for your yoga studio.
What characteristics make for great plants in a yoga studio?
When it comes to picking the most effective and attractive plants to grow inside a yoga studio, there are a number of factors to consider.
Size and Space
It doesn’t matter how big or small your studio is, you can find plants that will fit your needs. Indoor gardening containers range in size from small teacups that can fit on a desk or shelf to large barrels that take up an entire corner. Choosing plants that don’t need much light or that respond well to grow lights is a good option if your studio receives little or no natural light.
Maintenance and Care
Growing plants in your yoga studio doesn’t require you to be a master gardener, but you should pick plants that are suited to your studio’s environment and the time and effort you can devote to their care. It is fortunately possible to grow many plants that do well with limited watering and little supervision, especially succulent varieties.
Aesthetic Appeal
A number of plants and their flowers have been linked to positive mood enhancement and memory-building activity in the brain. Even though an overpowering fragrance might be unsuitable for the calm, relaxing environment of a yoga studio, there are still a variety of flowering houseplants that impart a pleasant scent.
Impact on Air Quality
One of the most important characteristics of plants for a yoga studio is their ability to filter toxins from the air. This is one reason why many houseplants became popular. Because breath work is so integral to yoga exercise, it is necessary to have clean, filtered air inside the yoga studio.
Tradition and Folklore
It was historically common to choose plants that were mythological or medicinal because they were easier to grow indoors. Keeping a few traditional luck plants around won’t harm, and you can always enjoy certain herbs in tea or fresh water between studio sessions.
25 Great Plants for Yoga Studios
Areca palm (Dipsus lutescens)
Areca plants are vase-shaped upright houseplants that also go by the name butterfly palm. Plants can reach a height of 10-12 feet. If you want to prevent tip damage, make sure that the area is humid. When selecting the plant, select those that have a large trunk, especially at the base. If the stems are pencil thin, the plant will topple over and will be difficult to maintain.
Lady Palm (Rhapis excela)
If you’re seeking plants for your yoga studio, make sure not to overlook the Lady Palm, or Rhapis excels. There are few palms easier to grow than the Rhapis. There are, however, specific cultural and environmental requirements for each species. Even though the Lady Palm grows slowly, it can grow to a height of around 14 feet. The plants tend to form broad clumps and can have a diameter of the same size as their height.
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea)
Bamboo palms also tend to prefer a bright (indirect) light environment. During their initial acclimatization to the yoga studio environment, your new plants will lose some of their foliage. Ensure that the plant remains evenly moist but don’t overwater it. Be sure to avoid letting it sit in stagnant water. Spider mites are easily attracted to this plant, which you can control by spraying soapy solutions.
Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
A semi-sunlight-filled room is the best environment for the rubber plant to grow. The plant should not be exposed to direct sunlight, particularly in the summer. Stakes may be needed to support the young plants. It will grow to a height of 8 feet and spread to a width of around 5 feet. During pruning, wear groves primarily to protect your skin from the milky sap. A plant that is actively growing should be thoroughly watered. Make sure that the soil is completely dry before you water again. Maintain a slight moisture level in the soil during winter.
Dracaena “Janet Craig” (Dracaena mariginata)
Janet Craig can grow up to 10 feet tall and have a spread of over 3 feet. Growing this plant is also one of the easiest things you can do. A plant must receive bright indirect sunlight from the east or west in order to grow properly. When you reduce the watering, the Dracaena will adapt to lower light levels. Make sure the soil is moist. You should also mist the plant with warm water frequently. Every dead leaf and browning tip should be removed. Leaf tips will brown if the plant is underwatered.
Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)
Are you aware that the philodendron is one of the most durable houseplants? Light of medium intensity is preferred by the plant. Lower light will be tolerated, however. Leaf damage will occur if there is any direct sunlight. You have two options when shopping for the plant. Among the options available are climbing and non-climbing. You will need to mist the plant regularly and make sure the leaves are dust-free. Keep the soil evenly moist – you can allow it to dry between waterings.
Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii)
This plant is very easy to grow and thrives in containers, making it perfect for indoor gardening. Due to its slow growth, there is no need to prune it continuously. If you have a big corner with a bit of sunlight, you’ll be able to grow this plant.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
Indoor favorites like these thrive in fluorescent light, so they’re perfect for studio rooms without windows. The waxy leaves and bright blooms of these plants are not only attractive, but they also keep your studio free of harmful toxins such as benzene.
Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Because it resembles a palm with long, hair-like fronds, this member of the succulent family gets its name. The easy-care plant is a favorite among bonsai artists and containers gardeners alike, since it grows so easily. Low light is fine, but bright light is required for it to grow long and quickly.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Herbs such as rosemary are not only popular as culinary ingredients, but they are also used to form topiaries and hedges. The aromatic properties of rosemary and its symbol as a good luck charm make it a great addition to your studio, whether you grow it in a small or large container. A good light source may be necessary for it to thrive.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis)
Ferns like this are commonly used as decorative plants in homes, offices, and possibly even your yoga studio space. There are many benefits to growing ferns, including the ability to purify the air, their need for only indirect sunlight, and their ease of growth.
Ficus Alii (Ficus macleilandii)
In indoor spaces, Ficus trees are an eye-catching option that adds height and appeal. Despite being Hawaiian in origin, whose name translates to “king”, he is tolerant of minor inconsistencies. Unlike other members of its family, it won’t shed frequently, and you won’t have to worry about it wilting when you clean or redecorate.
African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)
Since the African Violet symbolizes virtues like devotion and faithfulness, decorating a yoga studio with it will inspire everyone to remain mindful and set positive goals. When it blooms, its clustered flowers add a lovely touch of color to any room. This plant is also easy to pot and keep indoors.
Mood Moss (Dicranum scoparium)
The most common use of moss is to decorate the base of other plants with friendly conditions, but many moss species can be used to create stunning gardenscapes by themselves. Terrariums are a great way to display this plant, but moss wall features are even more impressive and fit well with a yoga studio aesthetic.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Yoga and aloe plants go hand in hand because aloe is a legendary healing aid. The sap of the plant is not only an ointment, but also a powerful air purifier. Additionally, it thrives indoors with very little attention and is extremely easy to cultivate.
Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata)
An upright snake plant’s green leaves dotted in yellow have a striking appearance that looks great in any indoor space. The plants are so easy to grow and purify the air, that experienced gardeners believe they do best when left to grow on their own. For a plant to grow well, indirect light is required, so it does not need to be near windows.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum)
Many indoor plant enthusiasts appreciate the Chinese evergreen for its low-light requirements and minimal maintenance needs. In bloom, its flowers resemble Peace Lilies’ blossoms, so they make a good decorative combination. The reason these plants are kept in Asia is because they are associated with good luck -and as another great air purifier, they certainly add value to any home.
Hindu Rope Plant (Hoya compacta)
Trailing succulent vines look best hanging in baskets or containers so that their tightly rolled, curly leaves can show their impressive aesthetics and take in pollutants more effectively. Its lushness is not only a pleasant addition to the studio, but the plant and yoga also share India as their country of origin.
Chinese Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade plants are popular among people who worry that they won’t be able to care for any plant properly. A long-time association of the plant with good fortune and luck has led to its nickname of the Money Plant due to its incredibly resilient nature. This versatile plant is also easy to grow in small bunches or in a large container, making it the perfect choice for studios of all sizes.
Decorative Pepper (Peperomia obtusifolia)
This plant is also a great pollutant fighter, and it suits the conditions of indoor gardening very well. You should choose this plant if you’re able to maintain its minimal requirements for water and pruning, as the more it thrives, the better it purifies the air. It also creates a unique pop of color in the room with its multi-colored leaves.
Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus)
Plants with waxy or thicker foliage complement this plant’s distinctively soft appearance with its long stems and needle-shaped leaves. Before the stalks begin to trail, it forms a delicate, bushy mound; however, the tips of the stalk can be pinched back to form a tight, dense shape. You can use this plant to add variety to the look of your studio’s indoor garden.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)
It’s not unusual to find these versatile, easy-to-grow stalks in the kitchen as often as they do indoors as decorations. As well as imparting a tangy flavor to foods, they make a relaxing and delicious tea when steeped alone. For yoga studios with students and teachers who take breaks during classes, or at events where students and teachers need some simple refreshments that are all-natural, edible plants are great.
Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)
Despite its reputation as a common houseplant that requires more care, the Zebra plant rewards its caretaker with white and green leaves that contrast beautifully with the flowers’ bold yellows and their brilliant red tips. Yoga practitioners with green thumbs will appreciate its vibrant beauty, and its leaves and large flowers will match their studio’s decor.
Spearmint (Mentha spicata)
The aromatic qualities of mint plants like spearmint can fill a yoga studio’s space when the sun hits their leaves, making it smell fresher. In addition to their easy care requirements, they are an edible herb that is a wonderful addition to indoor spaces. Additionally, one can pinch a few leaves to add to teas and other drinks.
Marino Blue Heliotrope (Heliotropium arborescens)
This beautiful shrub has deep green leaves and sweetly fragrant purple flowers that turn toward the sun, so its name is derived. Even though they can tolerate partial shade inside, they benefit most from a good amount of sunlight. A yoga studio would benefit from their beautiful appearance and aroma, which is described by some as having cherry, almond, and vanilla notes. When your yoga studio is decorated with soothing colors, clients will feel relaxed and start their practice more relaxed. Make sure the yoga studio is as natural as possible. Including more plants is, in my opinion, a good thing!