From Peace Lilies to Succulents and everything in between, it’s well known that houseplants can be hugely beneficial to our health.

As part of its Green Up Your Gaff campaign, award winning Perrywood Garden Centre, in Colchester, is hoping to boost concentration, improve air quality and reduce stress levels by visiting local schools in the area and providing them with free houseplants.

Perrywood is cultivating calmness in the classroom by giving pupils the opportunity to meet their expert houseplant team and learn about how to look after their plants.

Throughout the month of October, Perrywood will be visiting 10 primary schools in and around the Essex area, where children will be able to learn more about different types of plants, in addition to choosing one for their classroom.

The benefits of keeping houseplants stretch far beyond the classroom and the expert team at Perrywood is committed to helping people ensure that they purchase the right plant for their home.  

Zoe Willis, from Colchester, is team leader of houseplants and bedding departments, and she has recently returned from The International Garden Centre Association Study Tour in Canada. Whilst on the tour, Zoe topped up her expansive knowledge of plants, which she is now sharing with staff and customers.

She said: “Our main focus of the classroom tour is to give pupils the chance to learn about houseplants and give them the opportunity to benefit from what they bring to an indoor space. We’ve had a fantastic response from the children, teachers and parents and it’s wonderful to see the youngsters get excited about their new houseplants.”

Throughout October, Zoe will also be running a houseplant hashtag challenge on Instagram. Details of how to participate can be found on Instagram (@perrywoodhouseplants @zoeshouseofhouseplants) and the winner will receive a prize bundle including a selection of stunning houseplants and accessories.