Bringing the outdoors in: How to make your student apartment greener

The benefits and challenges of indoor plant parenthood

Margo Berthier Staff Writer

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This decorative appeal prompted Eléonore Beauregard, U3 Science, to buy some houseplants for her apartment.

“They make great décor that is not super expensive and doesn’t encourage overconsumption,” Beauregard said. “When they flower, it’s the best feeling to know that I’ve cared for them so well.”

Indeed, houseplants are known to have certain psychological benefits. Taking care of living creatures, watering and fertilizing them, and removing dead leaves can be therapeutic. Caring for your plants gives you a purpose and, when they bloom, you feel rewarded.

Additionally, the bright green colours and earthy feeling that these plants produce will reduce stress levels and elevate your mood.

For Kenza Zarrouki, U3 Arts, living in a windowless bedroom has made caring for plants even more special.

“I recently purchased several plants, and they bring life into my tiny bedroom,” Zarrouki said.

“This is very soothing and makes me feel much better, especially since I don’t have a window and my room can get very dark.”

Through the process of transpiration, plants also add humidity to the air, which can help combat the dryness of cold winters. They also absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen,