If you are looking for a way to reduce stress and improve productivity in the office, consider building an office garden. An office garden is a great way to bring nature into your workspace and create a calming space that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Employees will benefit from an office garden by having a quiet spot to relax during their breaks or spend some time in the sun. It can improve morale, and an office garden can act as an air purifier and reduce indoor pollution. For customers, an office garden is a great way to welcome them into your space and give them a pleasant environment that can encourage them to stay longer.
But before you start planting, there are some things you should consider when building an office garden.
Location Matters
Creating an office garden can be a great way to make your workspace more inviting and productive. Still, it is essential to take the location into account. Factors like available sunlight, local climate, and soil type should all be considered when planning the garden. If possible, try to find an area that enjoys partial shade during the hot summer so plants won’t suffer from overheating.
In this case, working with a commercial glass company can be a great way to ensure that your office garden is well-equipped to handle the elements and create an inviting environment. They can give you advice on the best materials and frame types that will keep your garden sheltered from the sun while still allowing plenty of natural light to flow through.
Choose Your Plants Wisely
The plants in your garden need to thrive in their environment, so do your research beforehand. Consider the size of the plant and how much maintenance it requires—some plants may be too big for your space or need more care than you can provide. Also, consider if any of these plants could cause allergies among people who work in the area, as well as any potential environmental hazards from certain species or pests. Some of the best plants for workspaces are:
- Ferns: Ferns are a great choice for office gardens due to their low maintenance and ability to thrive in low-light environments.
- Herbs: Herbs are a popular choice for office gardens because they require minimal effort and can easily be incorporated into recipes or used as garnishes.
- Succulents: Succulents are drought-tolerant plants that don’t need much water or care, making them an ideal choice for office gardens.
Choose the Right Accessories
The right accessories can take your office garden to the next level. Outdoor furniture and decorative items will give it a more inviting feel while also serving a practical purpose. If you want to create an outdoor oasis for employees to relax and enjoy their break times, consider adding comfortable seating areas and other amenities like outdoor heaters or lighting. You can also add decorations such as wind chimes, birdhouses, and hummingbird feeders to bring in more wildlife.
Create Rules & Guidelines
Once you have chosen your plants and secured them in their spot, create rules and guidelines that everyone needs to follow when interacting with the garden. This includes watering schedules, pest control measures, appropriate pruning techniques, etc., all of which should be outlined in a document that everyone can access easily.
Additionally, establish who will be responsible for taking care of each aspect of the garden—this way, no one person will be overwhelmed with responsibilities. In contrast, others don’t pull their weight.
Consider the Cost
Depending on the size and complexity of your garden, it may require some initial investment to get it started. Before beginning the project, research what materials are necessary and determine how they will be obtained. Calculate all expenses upfront, considering any unexpected costs that may come up along the way, such as pest control and watering systems.
Utilize an experienced landscaping company when possible, so your garden receives competent care from professionals with the necessary soil management and plant selection knowledge. Considering cost upfront can help ensure success for your project in both looks and longevity.
Keep Safety in Mind
When building your garden, consider any potential safety hazards and take the necessary precautions. Make sure everything, from how the beds are built to the types of plants available, is safe for everyone.
Also, be aware of hazards like slippery surfaces, pests, and allergens, and make sure that these could not harm any members of the workplace. Planning will help you to create an office garden that practically anyone can enjoy safely for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Building an office garden can be a great way to bring nature into your workspace and create a calming environment that encourages employee creativity and collaboration. But before you start planting, consider where it will go, what type of plants are best suited, and who will be responsible for maintaining it. Following these steps will help ensure your office garden is successful and enjoyed by everyone!
