Have you ever looked around your dorm room and felt something was missing?
Maybe the walls feel a bit too bare, or the space just doesn't feel quite like home yet. If you're searching for that special something to brighten up your college living space and lift your spirits, you're in the right place.
Introducing the best dorm room plants that will transform your humble abode into a vibrant and inviting retreat.
Let’s explore how these green wonders can turn your dorm room from drab to fab!
Drumroll, Please: The 10 Best Dorm Room Plants!
Moss Amigos (Moss Ball)
Moss Amigos tops our list of the best dorm room plants due to its remarkable longevity and minimal care requirements, making it perfect for students who might not have much experience with plants.
These moss balls can live for over 200 years, providing a long-lasting touch of green to any small space.
Housed in a stylish jar, you can personalize Moss Amigos with various gemstones, each carrying a unique meaning to inspire or comfort you as you study.
These low-maintenance plants are ideal for dorms because they require little light and can thrive in indirect sunlight, making them easy to care for amidst a hectic college schedule.
Dos:
- Select a gemstone that aligns with your birthstone or zodiac for a personalized touch.
- Keep the moss ball in indirect light, such as on a shelf or desk away from direct sunlight.
- Refresh the water in the jar periodically to maintain optimal conditions.
Donts:
- Avoid placing your Moss Amigos under direct sunlight
- Resist the temptation to overhandle or excessively move the jar
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, or Sansevieria, is highly recommended for its air-purifying qualities and extreme hardiness.
It can survive with minimal light and water, making it nearly foolproof for busy or forgetful students. The vertical growth of its leaves provides a striking visual without taking up much horizontal space, which is invaluable in cramped dorm settings.
Furthermore, it can improve indoor air quality by filtering out toxins, creating a healthier living environment.
Dos:
- Water sparingly, as the snake plant is drought tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
- Keep it in indirect light; it tolerates low light but grows best with some sunlight.
- Clean the leaves occasionally to keep them efficient at air purification.
Donts:
- Avoid overwatering which could lead to root rot.
- Do not place in direct sunlight as it may cause the leaves to burn.
- Avoid using leaf shine products; these can clog pores and hinder the plant's breathing.
Succulents
Succulents are a staple when considering the best dorm room plants due to their diversity and ease of care. These plants are ideal for students because they require minimal watering and thrive in environments that get plenty of sunlight, which can be a windowsill in any dorm room.
Their compact size makes them perfect for small spaces such as desks or shelves. Additionally, the variety of shapes and colors succulents come in allows students to personalize their space with little effort, offering a fun way to decorate and take a break from studies.
Dos:
- Place them in a bright area where they can get plenty of light, ideally a south-facing window.
- Water only when the soil is completely dry to avoid root rot.
- Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent excess water from sitting at the bottom.
Donts:
- Avoid placing them in low-light areas as they will not thrive.
- Do not overwater; succulents prefer dry conditions.
- Do not use a larger pot than necessary; succulents grow best in snug environments.
Hoya
Hoya plants, with their thick, waxy leaves and potential for stunning aromatic blooms, make a delightful addition to any dorm room. Hoyas are particularly suited for dorms because they thrive in bright, indirect light and can easily adapt to the ambient conditions of most dormitories.
They require watering only when the soil dries out, which conserves water and reduces the maintenance tasks for busy students. Their long, trailing vines can beautifully accent a small space.
Dos:
- Provide a sturdy support or trellis for the vines to climb or trail beautifully.
- Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Clean the leaves occasionally to ensure they can photosynthesize efficiently.
Donts:
- Do not overwater; Hoya prefers to dry out between watering.
- Avoid direct sunlight; the leaves can get sunburned.
- Don't let the plant sit in water; ensure the pot has good drainage.
Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo is an excellent choice among the best dorm room plants due to its strong resilience and versatility in growth conditions. This plant can thrive in either water or soil, which makes it adaptable to whatever space you have available.
It’s ideal for dorms because it doesn’t require much sunlight and can grow well under fluorescent lights commonly found in college accommodations.
Also, Lucky Bamboo is believed to bring good luck and positive energy, which can be a comforting presence during exam seasons.
Dos:
- Maintain a consistent water level if grown hydroponically to keep the roots submerged.
- Position the bamboo in moderate, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight that can scorch the leaves.
- Change the water weekly to keep it clean and clear of algae.
Donts:
- Avoid using tap water high in chlorine; purified or distilled water is best.
- Do not neglect cleaning the container; cleanliness is key to preventing disease.
- Steer clear of placing the plant in overly shadowed areas; some light is necessary.
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plants are celebrated due to their nature and low light requirements. This plant's ability to store water in its roots allows it to thrive on neglect, perfect for students who might not always remember to water.
The glossy, thick leaves add a touch of elegance to any dorm room, and its slow growth means it won’t outgrow its space quickly. ZZ Plants can also help reduce indoor air pollutants, promoting a more refreshing study environment.
Dos:
- Water infrequently, only when the soil is completely dry.
- Place in any light condition; low to bright indirect light is acceptable.
- Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help the plant breathe.
Donts:
- Do not water on a fixed schedule; check the soil moisture instead.
- Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.
- Do not use cold water; room temperature is best to avoid shocking the plant.
Pothos
Pothos is a versatile and forgiving plant, making it a top contender for the best dorm room plants. It can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light, and its trailing vines can beautifully decorate a space by draping over shelves or climbing walls with the help of hooks.
This plant is also known for its ability to purify the air, removing common toxins and providing a fresher environment for studying and living.
Dos:
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Clip long vines to encourage bushier growth and keep the plant full.
- Clean the leaves regularly to enhance its air-purifying properties.
Donts:
- Avoid soggy soil; ensure the pot has proper drainage.
- Do not neglect completely; while tolerant, it still needs care.
- Avoid placing it in direct sunlight; the leaves may get burned.
Philodendron
Philodendron is another great choice due to its heart-shaped leaves and easy-going nature. It's particularly suited to the busy lifestyle of college students because it requires minimal care and can grow in low-light conditions.
The green foliage not only adds a cozy feel to any dorm but also embodies a welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for new students wanting to make their space feel like home.
Dos:
- Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry.
- Place in moderate to low light conditions.
- Use a climbing structure if desired, to guide its growth.
Donts:
- Avoid overwatering; let the soil dry out between waterings.
- Do not place in full direct sunlight; it prefers diffused light.
- Avoid using chemical leaf shines; wipe leaves with a damp cloth instead.
Spider Plant
Spider Plants are a classic choice for dorm rooms, easily making it onto the list of best dorm room plants. Their long, arching leaves and small white flowers can add a touch of elegance and freshness to any space.
Spider Plants are extremely hardy and adaptable, thriving in various light conditions, which makes them ideal for dorms with fluctuating light levels. They also help purify the air, creating a healthier living environment for students.
Dos:
- Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Place in indirect light to maintain vibrant foliage.
- Repot when the plant becomes root-bound to encourage healthy growth.
Donts:
- Avoid overwatering; Spider Plants prefer slightly dry conditions.
- Do not place in direct sunlight as it can cause the leaves to scorch.
- Avoid using cold water for watering; room temperature water is best
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is not only beneficial for its medicinal properties but also as a decorative and practical addition to any dorm room. Its ability to thrive on neglect (water sparingly and enjoy bright light) makes it perfect for the forgetful or busy student.
Aloe Vera's soothing gel can be used for skin care, which is a handy benefit for any student living a hectic college life.
Dos:
- Water only when the soil has completely dried out.
- Place in a sunny spot, ideally a window that gets plenty of indirect light.
- Harvest the gel from older leaves as needed for skin care.
Donts:
- Do not overwater; this is the quickest way to kill an aloe plant.
- Avoid placing in low-light conditions; it won’t grow well.
- Do not use a pot without drainage holes, as stagnant water can lead to root rot.
Conclusion
There you have it—the 10 best dorm room plants that are guaranteed to transform your college living space into a vibrant, welcoming haven.
Among these fantastic options, Moss Amigos stands out as the ultimate choice. Not only does it require minimal upkeep, but it also brings a unique aesthetic and a touch of peacefulness to your dorm room.
Perfect for busy students, this little green gem promises to be a delightful addition to your study environment.
Curious to learn more about why Moss Amigos is the best choice for your dorm? Discover fascinating facts about Moss Amigos here and see how it can enhance your dorm living experience even further!
Frequently Asked Questons
What is the best plant for a dorm room?
Moss Amigos moss ball is the ideal choice for a dorm room. This unique moss ball is not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly low maintenance. It requires minimal light and water, making it perfect for students who might not have a lot of time to care for plants. Also, Moss Amigos can live for a very long time, ensuring that you have a long-lasting, green companion throughout your college years.
Which plant is best for student?
For students, Moss Amigos stands out as the best plant due to its very low maintenance needs. It thrives in a variety of lighting conditions and only needs water occasionally, making it ideal for busy student life. Plus, you can personalize it with different gemstones or decorative accessories to suit your taste and style, making it a fun and unique addition to any study space.
Which plant is best to keep in room?
For keeping in a room, both Moss Amigos and the Snake Plant are excellent choices. Moss Amigos is perfect for those who prefer a plant with minimal care requirements and a unique appearance. On the other hand, the Snake Plant is also a great option as it's known for purifying the air and can thrive in low-light conditions, making it suitable for nearly any room setup.
References:
Kulkarni, K. A., & Zambare, M. S. (2018b). The Impact Study of Houseplants in Purification of Environment using Wireless Sensor Network. Wireless Sensor Network, 10(03), 59–69. https://doi.org/10.4236/wsn.2018.103003
Lucky Bamboo. (n.d.). https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/chiwonlee/plsc211/student%20papers/articles02/rkilzer/rkilzer.htm#:~:text=It%20has%20been%20used%20for,to%20one%20inch%20per%20month.