Let’s talk about how to decorate bedroom with plants. As you might already know, I’m a huge fan of having plants indoors. The right plant, in the right space will make an interior design sing! But before you ask, this is my favorite indoor house plant. Literally, they look good in any room – I promise.
Okay, now that that is covered – When it comes to perfecting your bedroom space, tastes vary widely. As such, you might not find that every idea works well for your current layout. Even so, I still think that adding plants is always a sure fire way to elevate your home but there are a few things you want to keep in-mind to get it just right.
Where to Start When You Want to Know How to Decorate Bedroom with Plants
Technically speaking, you can start adding plants wherever or however you like. Learning how to decorate bedroom with plants doesn’t limit you strictly to one approach.
However, I always find it best to get your layout done first, then add your furnishings. It can be temping to start placing plants right away – but try not too! They might take up space for elements you need to prioritize.
Plans should compliment your interior decor, not be the foundation. After all, redecorating over and over again can take a lot of time and get expensive. This is especially true if you’re trying to make the room look like it was done up by professional interior designers.
Assuming you’re trying to redo the whole room, I’ll suggest starting with your current focal point and working out from there. Since this is usually the bed in your bedroom, that’s where we’ll begin.
Headboard Plants and How to Decorate Bedroom With Plants
The headboard of your bed could be the perfect small space for a few plants, provided that you’re willing to use it as a plant shelf, or even hang plants above your headboard. Depending on how many you put up there, you might not have much space left for anything else – but plants above your bed can be a great way to make a statement.
There are a number of great options for this space. Succulent plants and other small, low-maintenance plants could be the way to go. If you have the space, a large plant placed in the middle can make quite the impression. Just make sure it’s easy to water and won’t drop down onto you or the bed.
Alternatively, if your headboard design allows for it, consider going with a long vine wrapped around the headboard for a more organic touch.
Nightstand Plants
If decorating your headboard isn’t an option that you want to explore – that’s okay. Placing plants on your bedside table is a great alternative, and one that I use in almost all my bedrooms. Of course, space here is generally a bit more limited, so keep it small but impactful.
Make sure you still have room for your phone, water, etc, as you’ll likely have other things to put there. Perfecting your nightstand with plants is a great way to enjoy some indoor flora, so I suggest going with one big plant at a minimum.
Smaller books can look nice when placed next to the pot, but I personally love the look of a plant placed on a few antique books. Something about this combination is just so relaxing.
In the end, just make sure you have a nice green moment, while still leaving enough space for your essentials and you will be in great shape.
Shelved Plants
Shelves are a classic place to put indoor plants. Whether you’re working with a collection of small succulents or larger potted plants, chances are, your shelves have the space!
Standalone plants are a great option, but one thing I especially love is placing viny plants at the edge of my shelves and letting them drop over the front and sides for a ton of visual interest.
Hanging vines create a sense of organic movement while bringing harsh sharp lines into harmony.
If you don’t already have shelves on your walls, a standing bookshelf can work as a great alternative.
Corner Plants
One thing you’ll definitely want to remember when it comes to how to decorate bedroom with plants is what to do with the corners of your room. Plants are often the perfect solution for empty or awkward corners. Have a few that stick out sore thumbs? This is where floor plants like these large indoor plants that don’t need a lot of sunlight are perfect!
A single large plant is often enough to refine a corner. However, assuming you have the space, you could place a few different potted plants there instead. I recommend experimenting with different placements to find the “impression” you want. Just be sure that they are big enough to not get swallowed up by your living room furniture or bed etc.
Don’t have a green thumb? That’s okay. Pick up this artificial Olive tree if even a low-maintenance plant seems like too much work. I get you.
Hanging Plants
Step away from basic options and upgrade your floral setup with the addition of hanging planters. I love hanging plants in offices, bedrooms, and even my bathroom.
They add tons of charm and help lift your eye up making the room feel bigger and better. Using a hanging basket or two gives you a lot more placement options around the room. Of course, you will have to keep headspace in mind.
If headspace is going to be an issue then you may want to choose something that’s relatively short, like spider plants. On the other hand, you can go all-out with long, vined plants like pothos, String of Pearls, or begonias.
Above your bed, next to the windows, or near a wall mirror are all great places to put hanging plants, but your options are really only limited by your creativity and mounting options.
How to Decorate Bedroom with Plants and on Accent Walls
If you’ve read any of my art posts then you’re probably familiar with the idea of accent walls. More specifically, gallery walls – y’all know I am obsessed. Get my FREE gallery wall guide and two digital prints to help you make one today. This type of styling is great at adding contrast and visual appeal to your room, especially if you have a monochrome color scheme.
Hanging plants work especially well for this since you can get full coverage with a few, purposely-picked plants. However, that’s not your only option!
Having a wall of shelving dedicated to plants works just as well, and may give you a bit more flexibility in terms of the final layout thanks to the different heights. You could also run a planter box down the side of the room, filling it with plants for a more horizontal arrangement.
Windowsill Plants
Lastly, windowsill plants are practically a must-have. Is there anything more charming than a windowsill full of plants, or kitchen herbs? Smaller plants generally work best for this, although if you have the space for larger plants, go for it. The main thing to remember is that these plants will be in direct sunlight.
As such, you’ll want to put some thought into your plant selection. Not only do they have to complement the space, but they’ll also need to be able to thrive in that specific lighting situation.
Herbs and succulents like Aloe Vera, Kalanchoe, and Agave work great for this!
Colors & Contrast
Part of learning how to decorate bedroom with plants is mastering the art of color and contrast. Placing your plants in front of a wall with my favorite white paint can help the lush foliage pop. You can do the same thing in reverse, with bright-colored plants and a dark background.
This same principle can also be applied to other parts of your room. For example, the rug. A simple rug refresh can really help bring out your plant’s natural beauty while also highlighting the contrast between the plants and the floor.
For more color contrast, experiment with your plant pot selection, complementary colors, and flowering plants. Variegated leaves can also add some contrast within the plants themselves.
Getting the Placement Just Right
I mentioned it briefly above, but it’s important to not overlook the importance of plant placement. Part of learning how to decorate bedroom with plants is recognizing the limitations, not only in your bedroom but for the plants as well.
Some plants thrive in low light. Others can tolerate moderate light, and some prefer bright light. Each plant is different, but regardless, you’ll need to make sure your plants’ environmental needs are met. If you absolutely need to place a low-light plant in a bright area then you’ll at least need to invest in a good set of blinds to limit light exposure.
Once you’ve rearranged your plants, make sure to check back later on to ensure they’re thriving. I like to keep an eye on things for a month or two. You will know when it;’s right because your plants will be perky, strong.
If things are looking a little limp or pale, consider moving to a different spot – it’s just a little trial and error honestly. Just be aware, and try to make the necessary changes to help your plants look their best.
The Benefits of Having Plants in Your Bedroom
Now you know how to decorate bedroom with plants, but why would you want to? Well, besides the aesthetic appeal, there are actually quite a few reasons why having plants in your bedroom is the best. Here are my favorites!
You’ll Enjoy Better Air Quality
There are often many harmful toxins and indoor air pollutants in the air around us, despite our best efforts. Especially in closed-off areas, gases like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide can pose a real issue.
Unless something goes drastically wrong, these gases will only be present at low, non-toxic levels. Still, there’s no harm in removing any traces of them from the air if you can, so why not?
Air-purifying plants improve indoor air quality using two main methods: removing toxins and increasing oxygen levels. Plants can remove CO₂ through photosynthesis, while other toxins can be broken down by the roots or absorbed into the leaves.
Although some plants do release small levels of CO₂ at night, the amount is so small that you’ll never notice a difference. Simply breathing while asleep actually released more CO₂ than a houseplant, so—despite the old urban legend—there’s nothing to worry about.
Aside from removing CO₂ from the air, photosynthesis also helps increase oxygen levels by releasing fresh oxygen into the air. This happens after the plant has absorbed and processed CO₂.
The result? You’ll constantly have fresh air to enjoy, even indoors. Plus, if these health benefits weren’t enough to convince you to try some plants – they just look cool, and that’s all the reason I need.
Your Room Will Always Smell Fresh
Okay, so this benefit isn’t universal and the exact scents you get will vary from plant to plant. Still, I’d recommend paying close attention to the scents of the plants you do pick up.
Some plants smell aromatic and strong, particularly if they have flowers. Others may put off a more herbal smell, while some can smell citrusy or even minty.
While many common houseplants don’t put off a noticeable smell at a distance, you can always handpick your selection if you want to capitalize on the aromatic advantages!
You’ll Enjoy a Sense of Serenity
Decorating your living space with plants is a great way to change the atmosphere, or “vibe”, of the area. Rather than feeling trapped indoors during the hot summer months, you can bring the great outdoors to you.
Tropical plants are great for vacation vibes, whereas brightly-colored flowers can give the impression of being in a field. If a forest is more your preference, consider adding ferns and mosses to your bedroom instead.
Of course, I’m assuming you’re planning on going all out. If you want something a bit more modest, simply adorning the edges of your space can give the perfect mixture of nature and modern living.
In the end, plants help make your home feel alive and offset harsh edges, and rough finishes.
Now You Know How to Decorate Bedroom With Plants
So, are you ready to start your own plant collection yet? I sure hope so. I love plants. From improving the air quality to making your living area more comfortable, plants are nearly always a great choice for any room!
While you’re picking out new plants, don’t forget to pick up the essentials that you’ll need to take proper care of your plants. With a few handpicked pots, some potting mix, and maybe a misting spray bottle to help minimize water spills, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful plant parent.
Well, that’s everything I have for you today. Did I give you any new ideas or inspiration for your own bedroom? If so, let me know in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Decorate Bedroom with Plants
Where should I put my plants in my bedroom?
There are many different places you can put plants in your bedroom, such as on shelves, next to mirrors, or even hanging above your bed! However, a large part of learning how to decorate bedroom with plants is learning the light requirements of your plants.
While bright indirect sunlight is suitable for many plants, you should do the proper research for each new plant to ensure they can all flourish in the proper growing conditions!
Which plants should not be kept in bedroom?
Toxic, high-maintenance, or oversized plants are best kept out of the bedroom. While getting your own Monstera plant is a wonderful way to bring life into your living room, it may not be the best choice for a small bedroom with minimal walking space.
You should research any house plants you’re considering before picking them up to ensure they’ll fit within your living space, have manageable maintenance requirements, and won’t poison any household pets.
What is the disadvantage of plants in bedroom?
There are a few prices you’ll have to pay for the privilege of being able to enjoy spending time surrounded by beautiful plants. For starters, taking care of plants takes time. You may also need to keep your bedroom at a certain temperature for your plants. The same goes for the humidity level.
There’s also the possibility of water damage from leaky pots, accidental messes that need to be cleaned up, or an unexpected infestation of bugs in your pots. Despite these few drawbacks, I still say the pros outweigh the cons!
Do plants in bedroom attract bugs?
They can! It’s important to remember that bugs need water, warmth, shelter, and food to survive. Since the plants can provide all of these things, they may seem like an attractive option to any indoor bugs wandering about.
Fortunately, provided you notice the infestation early on, most bug-related issues can be solved quickly with minimal effort.
Do plants in bedroom affect sleep?
Aside from eliminating airborne toxins, some plants have also been shown to promote relaxation, which will definitely help you sleep better! While plants do emit carbon dioxide in addition to oxygen, this amount is trivial and won’t affect your overall health.
What plants oxygenate rooms?
All plants can help improve your room’s air quality by releasing oxygen. However, most plants also release carbon dioxide at night. Plants like the Mother-In-law’s Tongue plant are the best plants for oxygenating rooms as they provide oxygen around the clock!
