How to Choose the Best Office Desk Plants (Even with No Sunlight)
Are you an office worker who wants to bring a touch of green to your desk but are cursed with a windowless office or a dark cubicle? You’ve probably heard that plants are great for your mental health and can even boost productivity, but how can you keep one alive when there’s no sunlight to be found? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many office spaces, especially in modern buildings, are designed with minimal natural light. The good news is, you can still have a thriving green companion on your desk. The secret is to choose the right plants and give them a little love.
Why Bother with Plants at All?
Before we get into the specifics of which plants to choose, let’s talk about why it’s worth the effort. Bringing a plant into your workspace isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a wellness practice. Research has shown that having plants in the office can reduce stress, improve mood, and even increase focus. The presence of living things can create a more calming and pleasant environment, which is especially important when you’re spending eight or more hours a day at your desk. Plants also help to purify the air, removing common toxins that can build up in sealed indoor spaces. While the air-purifying benefits are often a bit exaggerated for a single plant, the psychological benefits are well-documented.
The No-Sunlight Survival Guide
So, how do you keep a plant alive without sunlight? The key is to select plants that are naturally adapted to low-light conditions. These are often plants that, in their natural habitat, grow on the forest floor, shielded by a dense canopy of trees. They’re used to getting very little direct light and are much more tolerant of the kind of artificial light found in most offices.
Another crucial factor is understanding that “no sunlight” doesn’t mean “no light at all.” The fluorescent lights in your office, or a desk lamp, provide a certain amount of light, and many plants can use this to photosynthesize, albeit at a slower rate. You’ll also need to be mindful of your watering habits. Low-light plants grow more slowly and therefore use less water. Overwatering is the number one cause of death for indoor plants, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Let the top inch or two of soil dry out completely before you water again.
Top 5 Office Desk Plants for a Sun-Deprived Space
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): The snake plant is practically indestructible. It’s incredibly forgiving of neglect, thrives in low light, and only needs watering once every two to three weeks, sometimes even less. Its stiff, upright leaves add a modern, architectural feel to any desk. It also comes in various sizes and colors, making it a versatile choice. The snake plant is also known for being a great air purifier. It’s a fantastic starter plant for anyone who thinks they have a “black thumb.”
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The ZZ plant is another champion of low-light conditions. Its waxy, dark green leaves are beautiful and resilient. This plant is a fantastic choice for a dark corner or a desk far from any window. Like the snake plant, it prefers to be on the dry side, so you can forget about watering it for a few weeks at a time. It’s a slow grower, which is perfect for an office environment where you don’t want a plant that will outgrow its space quickly.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): The pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a classic for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, including very low light. Its trailing vines can be trained to climb or cascade from a shelf, adding a lush, jungle-like vibe to your workspace. Pothos comes in different varieties with variegated leaves, but for a very dark office, a solid green variety will do best as the variegation on other types requires more light to maintain. It’s very vocal about needing water—the leaves will droop noticeably when thirsty—and perk right back up after a drink.
4. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): As its name suggests, the cast iron plant is as tough as they come. It’s known for its ability to survive in a wide variety of difficult conditions, including very low light, poor soil, and neglectful watering. Its broad, dark green leaves are elegant and understated. This is a perfect choice if you travel often or tend to forget about your plants. It’s a slow-growing plant that will provide a constant, green presence on your desk without a lot of fuss.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): The peace lily is a beautiful plant that not only thrives in low light but also produces elegant white flowers. While it needs a little more consistent moisture than the other plants on this list, it’s very good at communicating its needs. When it gets thirsty, its leaves will dramatically droop, a clear signal that it’s time to water. Once watered, it will quickly spring back to life. Just be careful not to overwater it, and it will reward you with beautiful, low-maintenance foliage and blooms.
Caring for Your Low-Light Plant
Once you’ve chosen your new green desk buddy, a few simple care tips will ensure its longevity:
Watering: As mentioned, overwatering is the biggest risk. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil with your finger. If the top two inches are dry, it’s probably time to water. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so the roots don’t sit in water.
Final Thoughts
Adding a plant to your office desk is an easy and effective way to improve your workspace and your well-being. Don’t let a lack of natural light deter you. With the right choice of plant and a few simple care habits, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of nature right from your desk. The snake plant, ZZ plant, pothos, cast iron plant, and peace lily are all excellent, low-maintenance options that can survive and thrive even in the darkest of cubicles. Choose the one that speaks to you, give it a name, and watch it become a source of calm and a little green beacon of life in your daily routine.
