Can you keep plants in the bedroom? How many?
Yes, and one or two is about right. Research suggests tending a plant can help you relax, but lots of large pots turn into watering, damp and tiny flies.
Some researchWhy it feels uncomfortable
In one study, young adults who repotted a plant had lower diastolic blood pressure and less stress-related nerve activity than after a computer task, and felt more comfortable (Lee et al. 2015, small sample). A bedroom with no green at all can feel a bit lifeless, but lots of potting soil commonly brings damp and small insects.
What tradition says
Feng shui says plants bring living energy, but also that a bedroom should have only a few. Put together, that's simply "in moderation."
Three ways to fix it
- Do it nowPut one easy plant at eye level, such as a pothos or snake plant.
- Move some furnitureIf you already have many, keep one or two favorites and move the rest to the living room or balcony.
- If you can't change itNot much of a plant person? A small jar of cuttings in water, or even a botanical print, adds some green.
FAQ
Do plants steal oxygen at night?
One or two plants use a tiny amount of oxygen at night, with almost no effect on bedroom air. Airing the room before bed matters far more.
What if I have pollen allergies?
Choose foliage plants that don't flower, or use water-grown or artificial plants.
Related questions
Sources
This page draws on traditional ideas about the home and on environmental psychology research. It is for everyday reference, makes no predictions, and is not medical advice. If you sleep badly for a long time, please talk to a doctor.