When you live in a dorm room on campus for almost 4 years of your life your college becomes more than just an academic setting: it becomes your home. So don’t you want your home to be reflective of the eco lifestyle that you’re living?

Of course you do, so besides greening your lunch and controlling your college trash, how else can you green your dorm room?

Try indoor green plants.

Green plants are not only a great way to liven up your living space, but they’re also one of the most organic and natural ways to clean the air around you.

What type of green plants?

There are many factors that go into deciding which indoor green plant is best for your dorm room. Do you have enough natural sunlight coming in your room, or will you have to convert to artificial light?

Choose the type of plant that is easiest to take care of with your lifestyle.

Artificial light

The one factor that is similar in all dorm rooms is the use of artificial light, which will be available regardless if there are small or big windows. If you’re constantly on-the-go and you want a plant that doesn’t need sunlight or continuous care then an Aspidistra is perfect for you. Known to grow under the forests of Asia, this plant can go days without being watered and can still grow in temperatures up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Artificial and Natural Light

If you do have sunlight in your room then the African Violet is another green plant choice. Even though they are native to Tanzania, many people around the world use them as indoor green plants. The African Violet grows well under both artificial light and sunlight, but it should never be put in direct sunlight. Flower colors include pink, violet, red, yellow and white. As for watering, keep the soil moist.

Plenty of Natural Light

If you’re lucky enough to have plenty of sunlight in your room then you should take advantage of growing English Ivy! Even though it may be considered a weed in most states, this species of plant native to Europe is perfect for draping around rooms and adding a hint of green to your space. The cool thing about this plant is that it grows quickly with direct sunlight, and even grows in the shade. Just keep it away from a heater or freezing temperatures. You can water it by misting it with a spray bottle and even start a new plant by cutting and planting a small portion of the root.

A Light Lunch

Don’t forget that you can always purchase a counter herb garden box that can easily grow basil, chives and other garden herbs. You’ll have everything that you need to keep them growing.

Also, greens like lettuce are good for indoor growth, as well as carrots and radishes.

Now that you know what you can grow in your dorm room, go out and start greening your space! You’ll find that these indoor green plants will provide so much more than just clean air.