Don't Fake It
Why Real Plants are Better Than Fake Ones
Real plants have many benefits that outweigh the fact that fake ones are zero maintenance. First, real plants do a lot for the environment. They help purify the air we breathe by releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. Plants also increase humidity, which promotes clean skin and a healthier respiratory system.
“I think that [real plants] are more beautiful,” senior Bella Krizner said. “I like to celebrate real living things.”
There are also mental health benefits associated with plant care. Nurturing something from a tiny seed into a mature living thing is rewarding and can reduce stress. Indoor greenery can create a similar psychological effect to spending time in nature, bringing a sense of calm indoors. Green thumbs begin to feel a sense of connection with their plants when they begin responding positively by leaning toward the sun as they grow and sprout new leaves. And who says plants can’t communicate? You will be the first to know when they need water. Just watch the leaves. If the leaves turn brown, time to water. If the leaves turn yellow, that’s a sign of overwatering.
Plants are one of a kind, with different textures and growth patterns that plastic can't mimic well.
Some may say it is hard to tell the difference between a plastic plant and a living one, but it does not require a keen observer to notice the little details, such as the good smell and the more vibrant pigment in an authentic plant, which are the things that make a real plant that much better.
Beyond the aesthetic benefits, more seasoned indoor gardeners can even keep indoor herb gardens or indoor container gardens of flowers, fruits, and vegetables and reap the rewards of having home-grown fruits and vegetables and fresh cut flowers.
“Flowers smell nice,” freshman Grey O’Leary said, “they make your environment smell better.”
If you never remember to do little things like watering your plants, or you don't have a spot with enough sunlight, maybe you aren't ready to care for a real plant. But if you are willing to give it a try, the worst-case scenario is that your plant does not make it and has to be returned to the earth. However, your plastic plant, which you will eventually tire of, becomes a permanent fixture in the garbage dump, which is terrible for the environment.
“I prefer real plants,” freshman Greyson Kholer said. “They have fruits and vegetables on them.”
While fake plants ask nothing of you, they also give you nothing back. So next time you want to spruce up your living space, faux-get about selecting plastic plants and flowers if the real thing is an option. You may just make a green friend.
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