The average American office employee will spend roughly one-third of her life in the workplace. Let that sink in.

Or better yet, maybe don't.

It’s a horse-pill we’re expected to swallow, but it’s something that most of us have learned to accept, and sometimes even make the best of. There are plenty of strategies office staffs can embrace to help make their nine-to-five grind more satisfying, and, as we’ve discussed before, houseplants are an inexpensive option with a natural, magical ability to liven and freshen up any space.

“Let's face it, the average office atmosphere is stale and doesn't inspire people to reach their potential,” Austin-based business Desk Plants says. “In addition to that, most commercial buildings contain harmful airborne toxins, known as volatile organic compounds, that can have serious negative impacts on long term health.”

Desk Plants' mission is to supply simple, tabletop-sized plants and a wealth of knowledge about their care and benefits. “One of the most common complaints we hear from people is that they can't keep plants alive,” the site says. “That's why we have curated a selection of plants that naturally thrive within indoor environments.” 

Desk Plants officially launched its store in Austin back in November, literally cementing its place in that community as the go-to modern nursery after spending time popping up at expos and marketplaces. Intrigued, I ordered a tiny Zebra Haworthia for my husband with hopes that it would brighten up his windowless office.

The process was easy enough. With a website as extensive as Desk Plants', it wasn’t difficult to shop and find the right plant for our needs. Safe for pets, in case we kept it at home (because you just never know with puppies), the Zebra Haworthia only needs water every two to three weeks and does well under just about any light conditions. Shipment from Austin to Houston took nine businesses days from the confirmation of my order, and, thanks to perfectly fitted packaging, the plant arrived in pristine condition.

Also included was a nifty care card reiterating the information I had learned on the product’s page, the perfect size to keep in a desk drawer or by your monitor as an easily accessible reminder of how to care for your new little plant baby.

If you’re seeking a fun way to fill your home, office, or home-office with greenery, Desk Plants could be your cup of tea. Plants come in pots with all sorts of attractive, modern designs, and at prices ranging from $14 to $38. Support our neighbors to the northwest, and overcome your suspicion of succulents, and you’ll find yourself with a green thumb in no time.