Yahoo Finance Houseplants could 'suffer from loneliness' after lockdown, gardening experts claim
Houseplants could 'suffer from loneliness' after lockdown, gardening experts have warned.
According to Hayes Garden World, our potted plants will miss the company of homeowners as they gradually return back to work. While separation anxiety is more prevalent in pets, the gardening charity believes plants will also 'miss' owners when they're not around — and struggle to cope.
"The fact that houseplants thrive by our presence shows that they also have needs which go beyond just needing food, water and a nice ambient temperature," explains horticultural expert Angela Slater. "It's safe to say that plants will not fare as well in the silence when their owner isn't home."
Take a look at some of the reasons houseplants may miss humans when they're not around...
1. Plants can sense when you're not around
Plants might not be able to feel emotions in the same way humans can, but previous studies have shown that plants can sense water, light and gravity.
"They can even defend themselves and send signals to other plants near them to warn that danger is near," says Angela. "They're much more aware than people may think, so it's very likely that they'll be able to sense when their owner isn't at home."
2. The grow better around human voices
Did you know that plants thrive around human voices? In fact, a 2009 study performed by the Royal Horticultural Society found that tomato plants grew taller when they were spoken to.
"It is unclear exactly what proportion of people who keep plants do communicate with them, but committed vegetable growers have long spoken words of encouragement to their prized specimens," adds Angela.
3. The house will be colder for plants
With indoor plants growing better in 23 degrees, many could struggle to flourish without anyone at home. 'Brits will not be around to adjust the heating as they did when working from home, meaning plants will start to get chilly,' she says.
Heading outside? Why not leave your plants in a warmer room, such as on a bright windowsill or in the conservatory.
4. The lack of Co2 could be damaging
According to previous research, carbon dioxide increases photosynthesis, therefore spurring plant growth. With less humans around during the day, Angela says the lower Co2 levels in the air may stunt houseplant growth.
5. Less plant care
"Naturally, being around your houseplant more means that they get more attention," says Angela. "Owners have more time to water their plants, adjust their positioning for different levels of light and can be more intuitive with what they need when they're looking a little thirsty or overwatered. When you're gone, your plant will notice the difference in care and routine."
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