Air Plants - Low Maintenance & Low Cost Desk Plants

I don't know what it is about miniature things- I just can't get enough! I'm really into container gardens and terrariums these days. It's like imagining an entire world could exist in the palm of your hands. But the discussion about them wouldn't be in this blog if they didn't have a place in a cube.

I've seen people get really extravagant with their designs and I can appreciate that. Terrariums can have multiple plants and succulents, trinkets, rocks, flowers, driftwood and even personal memorabilia. But in a cubicle, it's best to keep it simple.

Air plants are really the simplest, most inexpensive way to go. You can buy air plants at your local flower shop or nursery for under $10 depending on size. They can also be ordered through many different places online - I found a store on Etsy where you can buy a package of five air plants in varying sizes and colors.

Air Plants on Etsy

There really is no limit to what you can do with your air plants. You can put them in any kind of container - glass jars, vases, bowls, candle holders etc. These are really great hanging vases from West Elm.

Ikea also has magnetic containers which make them very easy to display in a cubicle. They can attach to metal shelving units or storage/desk drawers.

Or for a more traditional desk plant - they can be put in a glass jar. Organic, natural elements are always nice, but as an option, you can mix it up with colorful rocks or sand.

 And the best part is - they are LOW maintenance! I soak mine once a week for about 5-10 minutes, but there are other ways of maintaining them. I don't have much of a green thumb, so consult with someone who does first.

Diffuse Fluorescent Lighting with a Stylish Desk Lamp

If you're like me, office lighting is a constant issue.

While you likely have no control over the lighting in your building, the best option is a desk lamp. It will diffuse the harsh fluorescent light and give your work space a more comfortable look and feel.

Here are a few fantastic affordable and stylish options to suit any work space:

IKEA Desk Lamps

IKEA is an absolute gold mine for lighting! There is a huge selection of work and desk lamps starting at around $5. With so many options, it's pretty difficult to choose, but here are a few that caught my eye.

All of these desk lamps are available at your local IKEA or online in the lighting section.

Lamp Shade DIY

If you're looking for a DIY project, there are tons of really cool ideas for a truly custom lamp shade - the possibilities are endless! Whatever your personal style, you're sure to find it here with one of these ten different lamp shade DIY projects. 

New Lamp Shades

Or you can do what I did a few weeks ago. Dust off an old lamp stored in the garage and update it with a new shade. There are plenty of local and online retail stores selling just lamp shades. For a desk/table lamp, it's best to get a drum shade (for a modern look) or a barrel or chandelier shade (for a traditional look). The Shades of Light store has a great selection online.