More than a quarter of working Brits feel least productive in January, with around two million people experiencing low mood and reduced motivation as daylight hours shorten.

As employers prepare for another winter slump, many are turning to simple, evidence backed measures to support staff well-being. One of the most widely supported approaches is introducing plants and greenery into workspaces.

Research shows that people who spend at least 120 minutes a week around nature are more likely to report good health and psychological well-being. The strongest effects are seen between 200 and 300 minutes, with benefits applying across age groups, including older adults and people with long term health conditions.

Studies in office and home working environments consistently link indoor plants with lower perceived stress, improved mood regulation, better concentration and enhanced cognitive performance. Workplace field studies also associate greenery with higher workspace satisfaction, fewer health complaints and improved focus.

“Nature is one of the most powerful tools for boosting workplace energy, yet it’s often overlooked,” said William Stokes, CEO at Co-space. “Plants instantly change the atmosphere of a room. They soften harsh spaces, improve air quality and make people feel calmer, more focused and more motivated. The impact on well-being can be immediate.”

Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements such as plants into built environments, has also been linked to lower stress levels and higher productivity. Some reports suggest gains in creativity and overall employee well-being when natural features are incorporated into office design.

Workplace specialists highlighted ten plants that are particularly effective in supporting calmer and more energising work environments:

• Snake Plant. A low maintenance plant known for filtering indoor air and supporting clearer thinking, suitable for desks and high traffic areas.
• Peace Lily. Helps regulate humidity and soften the atmosphere, with added benefits during dry winter months caused by central heating.
• ZZ Plant. Thrives in low light and requires minimal care, making it suitable for busy or hybrid workplaces.
• Pothos (Devil’s Ivy). A fast growing trailing plant that softens harsh lines and helps improve indoor air quality.
• Rubber Plant. Its bold structure can help bring visual order and a sense of stability to open plan offices.
• Spider Plant. Often associated with removing airborne toxins and reducing visual monotony in shared spaces.
• Aloe Vera. Suited to bright areas and valued for its clean, structured appearance that supports focused work.
• Philodendron. Known for its softer leaf shapes, which can help reduce subconscious stress in rigid office layouts.
• Bamboo Palm. Commonly used to soften large rooms and create a calmer feel in communal areas.
• Boston Fern. Adds moisture to dry indoor air and introduces soft, restorative greenery during winter.

“People underestimate how deeply our brains respond to nature,” Stokes said. “When we bring greenery indoors, we create environments where people can think more clearly, feel more grounded and stay in a productive rhythm. It’s one of the simplest, most affordable ways businesses can improve well-being.”

Looking ahead to 2026, more organisations are adopting biophilic principles to address burnout and create healthier workplaces.

“We’re entering a future where well-being isn’t optional,” Stokes added. “Employees want spaces that support them mentally and emotionally. Plants are a powerful step in that direction, and the workplaces that embrace nature now will be the ones that see stronger energy, lower stress and better performance throughout the year.”