Key Takeaways:
- Glass containers keep moisture in, so you water them less. Good for busy offices that forget plants.
- Big plants like snake plants clean more air than small terrariums. Better for air quality.
- Terrariums burn in direct sunlight. Potted plants can handle more light conditions. Pick what fits your space.
- Plants lower stress levels at work. Terrariums look cool, potted plants feel homey. Both make offices nicer.
- Use terrariums on desks and larger plants in corners. Our plant maintenance service can help with both.
When it comes to adding green to your office space, you’ve got two main choices: terrariums or classic potted plants. Both look great, but they work very differently. Let’s break it down so you can pick what’s best for your indoor space.
Design and Aesthetics Compared
First, what’s the big difference? Terrariums are plants in glass containers, while potted plants are the normal ones in pots you see everywhere. Terrariums can be closed or open, which changes how you care for them. Potted plants are simpler but need more regular care.
For office plant design, terrariums have a sleek, modern look. They fit well on desks or shelves in commercial spaces. Their glass container shows off the whole plant, even the roots and soil. This makes them interesting to look at from all angles. Potted plants are more flexible though. You can get small ones for desks or larger plants for corners.
Light Requirements: What Works Where
Light is a big factor. Most indoor plants need some light, but terrariums are picky. Closed terrariums do best in indirect light – too much direct sunlight turns them into tiny ovens. Open terrariums can handle more light. Potted plants vary more. A snake plant survives in low-light conditions, while a prayer plant needs bright light.
Watering and Maintenance Needs
Watering is another difference. Terrariums need less frequent watering because the glass container traps moisture. This is great if you forget to water plants. But it also means you must watch humidity levels. Too much moisture can rot plants. Potted plants dry out faster, so they need water more often.
Health Benefits and Air Quality
For air quality, both help, but potted plants usually do more. Bigger potted plants like a jade plant clean more air than small terrariums. But even a small terrarium adds some fresh oxygen to your office environment.
Ease of Care and Maintenance
Care is where terrariums shine. They need less ongoing maintenance than most potted plants. A closed terrarium might only need water every few weeks. Potted plants like polka dot plants need weekly check-ups. If you want easy care, our plant maintenance service can handle either type.
Cost Comparison and Long-Term Value
Now, let’s talk cost. Terrariums often cost more at first because of their glass container design. But they can last years with little care. Potted plants are cheaper to start but may need replacing if not cared for right.
Space Considerations for Your Office
Space matters too. Terrariums are small and fit tight spaces. They’re perfect for crowded desks. Potted plants take more room but can grow bigger. A larger plant in a corner makes a bold statement in commercial spaces.
Choosing the Right Plants for Each Option
Some plants work better in each setup. Terrariums are great for moisture-loving plants like African violets or air plants. Potted plants suit almost anything – from tropical plants to desert cacti. We can help pick the right plants for your office plant design.
Style and Visual Impact
Looks are a big factor. Terrariums have a trendy, artistic vibe. They’re like little living sculptures. Potted plants feel more natural and homey. For a wide range of styles, mix both in your office space.
Mental Health and Productivity Benefits
Health benefits go both ways. Both can lower stress levels at work. But potted plants tend to clean more air. A big snake plant or spider plant does more for air quality than a small terrarium.
Long-Term Considerations and Flexibility
Long-term, terrariums can be tricky. If one plant dies in a closed terrarium, it’s hard to replace just that one. Potted plants are easier to swap out. You can change them as your office environment changes.
Solutions for Busy Offices
For those who travel often, terrariums are better. They can go weeks without care. Potted plants like polka dot plants need regular check-ins. If your team forgets plants often, terrariums or our plant maintenance service solve that.
The Artificial Plant Alternative
What about fake plants? Artificial plants need no care but don’t help air quality. A mix of real terrariums, potted plants, and some fake ones can work well in low-light areas.
Making a Big Statement with Plants
For a big impact, try a green wall of potted plants. It’s stunning in commercial spaces. Or group several terrariums for a modern look. Our interior planting design team can plan either for you.
Making the Right Choice for Your Space
In the end, it depends on your space and needs. Terrariums are low-care and stylish but limited in plant choices. Potted plants offer more variety and better air cleaning but need more attention. Many offices use both for balance.
At Mr. Plant SoCal, we help design perfect plant setups for any office space. Whether you want terrariums, potted plants, or a mix, we’ve got you covered. Our plant maintenance service keeps them all thriving so you can enjoy the benefits without the work.
Ready to green up your workspace? Check out our wide range of plants and designs at mrplantsocal.com. We’ll help you pick the best options for your light, space, and style. Because every office environment deserves some plant life!
