Decorating with Artificial Plants: Advantages and Disadvantages

When decorating the house, one thinks first of natural plants rather than artificial ones. But what about the advantages of artificial plants?

For those who love the vibrant colors of nature, you can’t miss out on plants as one of the main elements to decorate your spaces. With this in mind, the first thing that usually comes to mind is to decorate with natural plants rather than artificial ones. After all, what’s better than nature itself to give an original touch?

However, for different reasons or factors, it’s not always possible to integrate natural plants inside the house. Perhaps because we do not have time to take care of them, or because the environmental conditions are not the most suitable. So, how can you take advantage of artificial plants? Let’s take a closer look.

Artificial plants or flowers: What are their advantages?

Thanks to technology, nowadays artificial plants or flowers look very similar to natural ones, so it’s difficult to differentiate whether they’re real or not. This, undoubtedly, is one of the reasons why they have become so popular. Here are some others.

1. Artificial plants require very little care

You can go on vacation and not worry about who will water the plants while you’re away. Plus, you can forget about the regular maintenance that natural plants require, such as watering, fertilizing, transplanting, or “what do I do, my plant got sick?”

With artificial plants, you leave all that behind. It’s possible that the only thing they may ask you to do is to dust them from time to time.

2. They remain lively

Natural plants change their state constantly; in one season they bloom, in others, they wither and in others, they don’t even have flowers. This is a detail that you will not have when decorating with artificial plants. The color and appearance of artificial plants last longer.

3. They’re not so attractive for pets

Those who have pets can certify that they love to play and nibble the plants or take the soil out of the pots. Well, what can we say… they can’t seem to live together!

This is often explained by the smell of natural plants and soil, which arouses the olfactory sensitivity of pets. It’s a natural behavior that makes them feel attracted to them.

With artificial ones, they may attract their attention at first, but then they will understand that they’re part of the home and will lose their interest. In addition, because of their material, it’s more difficult for pets to damage them.

4. They’re hypoallergenic

Some natural plants can cause allergies in family members or visitors. If you’re thinking of decorating your home with plants, if you’re allergic to pollen, the best option is artificial ones. There’s no doubt about it!

Although there are natural options that are less likely to cause allergies, the safest alternative is artificial ones. Of course, they must be cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust.

5. Artificial plants can be placed in any space

Most natural plants require specific conditions; semi-shade, sunlight, shade, etc. Therefore, you won’t be able to put them just anywhere. You must look for spaces that meet their requirements. Meanwhile, artificial plants can be installed anywhere you want.

6. Say goodbye to insects

Those dreaded insects are usually very attracted to flowers. Some people avoid them with specific formulas or repellents. However, it is something that is avoided with the placement of artificial flowers. They have no odor or characteristics that make them attractive to bugs.

7. They can adapt to any style you want

You can find many different shapes, colors, sizes, and styles out there. Apart from this, most of them are made of materials that are flexible and malleable. Thus, you can move or rotate them so that one flower faces one place and the other one another. This gives you the opportunity to play around and find the look you desire.

The disadvantages of artificial plants

Artificial plants or flowers also have their disadvantages. Next, we’re going to list them for you so that you can ultimately decide whether or not you should have them.

1. They’re plastic

After all, they are plastic, and it could be a problem when their shelf life runs out. If you’re concerned about the environment, you may wonder if this is a good option, since sooner or later, they’ll be thrown in the trash.

2. They have no smell

Many people prefer natural plants because of the smell they give off since they perfume the spaces in the home. With artificial plants, you won’t get this. And although you can spray them, it will not be the same.

3. They don’t grow or change

They will always be the same size, shape, and color unless you change them and acquire others. This means being in constant renewal if you are one of those who like constant changes.

4. If they’re inexpensive, they can bring drawbacks

Many of the low-budget artificial plants tend to have shorter lifespans. In addition, you tend to notice more easily that they are not real and also give off a very strong odor that can be unpleasant.

5. They accumulate a lot of dust

As they are static, they accumulate a lot of dust and you must wash each of their parts with soap and water. You should do it regularly if you do not want them to look the opposite of what you originally thought.

Should you decorate your home with artificial or natural plants?

If we stop for a moment, both options have their pros and cons. It depends on you, your lifestyle, and your needs. These will help you to know which choice is the right one. All plants – artificial or not – are essential elements to give that touch that enhances and beautifies your home.