It’s back-to-school time -- that means learning new things and brushing up on what you already know. What better subject to get a refresher on than nature? From classrooms to dorm rooms, houseplants bring the beauty of nature indoors and brighten any space.

“Plants are perfect companions for students,” says Justin Hancock, garden expert from Costa Farms. “There are so many ways houseplants add benefit, from air quality to helping improve concentration and memory. Plus, they’re inexpensive to buy and super-easy to maintain.”

Hancock shares his Houseplants 101 lessons for indoor gardening success

Lesson 1. Back to basics with indoor gardening facts

Indoor air pollution can be two to five times higher — and in some cases 10 times — than outdoor air, according to studies from the EPA. Houseplants from Costa Farms’ O2 for You Collection remove harmful toxins from the air.

O2 for You houseplants absorb up to 87 percent of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by ordinary household products such as paints, carpets and ink.

“Peace lily, dracaena, snake plant, Red Aglaonema and pothos purify indoor air and are great plants for students,” Hancock says. “And, ZZ plant is so tough that it can survive any dorm room or apartment.”

According to NASA, you need at least one houseplant for every 100 square feet to maximize the health benefits. So, as few as two plants would improve the air quality in a 200-square-foot dorm room.

Lesson 2. Keep houseplants healthy in dorms

Houeplants offer a wealth of health benefits – both physical and psychological, making them ideal for dorms. Keep plants growing strong with these easy tips to help them survive from semester to semester.

1. Green is good. Brown leaf tips or edges mean a houseplant isn’t getting enough moisture. Cluster multiple plants together or place plants on a tray of pebbles and water.
2. Stick to a schedule. Water plants when soil is dry to the touch, about every seven to 10 days.
3. Stay comfy and cozy. Houseplants are happiest when temperatures are between 70 and 80ºF during the day and 10 to 15 degrees cooler at night, but thrive in basically the same temperatures you’re comfortable in.

To find out more about which houseplants are right for your living space; check out CostaFarms.com for more tips and tricks. Visit Costa Farms’ Youtube channel for inspiration on decorating and easy plant care.

About Costa Farms
Costa Farms is the largest producer of ornamental plants in the world. Founded in 1961 by Jose Costa, Costa Farms is a third-generation, family-owned business that globally stretches over 3,500 acres and employs 4,000 people. Along with thriving indoor and bedding plant divisions, Costa Farms operates merchandising and young-plant production divisions as part of its infrastructure, with operations domestically in South Florida and North and South Carolina, and abroad in the Dominican Republic and Far East.

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