Things You'll Need:
- A clear idea of your office environment
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Step 1
Consider the environment. For a plant to thrive indoors, it will have to be one that requires minimal light. In general, plants with larger leaves need less exposure to sunlight since they have more surface area with which to absorb it. Also, indoor plants are susceptible to pests such as white flies and thrips. Look for a pest resistant variety of plant or be prepared with some weapons to battle the bugs if they show up.
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Step 2
Consider your workload. You probably already have a long list of things that you have to accomplish at work everyday. Don't add to your stress by choosing a high maintenance plant. Ideally, the office plant needs infrequent watering and fertilization and will last for a long time. Choose a hardy perennial in order to avoid running out to the nursery to replace the plant every few months. Plants that will drop leaves and flowers all over your desk will become problematic, so avoid those. Realize that an indoor plant will collect some dust like every other office surface. Choose a plant whose leaves are the least likely to advertise dust accumulation or one whose leaves are easily cleaned.
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Step 3
Consider your coworkers. One man's favorite flower is another man's enemy, so take the allergies and sensitivities of your coworkers and clients into consideration. Gardenias, for example, have a lovely smell but cause many people to develop headaches.
