Spring seemed to arrive early this year with the abundance of warm weather, but many are still feeling the lingering effects of winter — try some gardening tips to pep up your slump.

It has been scientifically proven that indoor plants have numerous health benefits.

• Plants can improve mental health.

• Plants can prevent allergies by building a natural resistance. It’s like a custom allergy shot.

• Plants can provide clean air.

• Plants can improve your sleep.

Although growing plants isn’t a strong suit for every student, fear not. There are some very hardy and great indoor growing plants, suitable for everyone.

• Mint is great for stress relief. Crush or chew on a mint leaf to emit a strong aroma that will calm nerves and ease nausea or sore throats. This is best kept on a windowsill so it can have access to light all the time. It is widely available and can be purchased in a ready-to-use pot.

• Aloe vera is widely known for its soothing abilities. As the days get longer and the sun is out later, the chances for sunburn and skin irritation increase. To use, simply break open a leaf and squeeze it onto the affected area. These plants are excellent for areas that don’t get much sunlight and they don’t require much watering. Aloe vera can be found anywhere plants are sold.

• If you prefer a splash of color, African violets are a great choice. They are a small plant that doesn’t require a lot of water and can grow in a variety of different temperatures. These plants are also well known for their ability to clean the air of pollutants. African violets can be found at most nurseries or online.

What about herbs? Those can be grown indoors too. Herbs add a new flavor to many otherwise simple foods.

• Basil is the superhero of the herb world. It can be used in almost any recipe and is easy to grow and maintain.

• Parsley is a common cooking herb. It is very hardy and requires a heavy watering every few days.

• Chives are a simple and delicious herb. Simply use scissors to cut off the plant and they are ready to use.

There are two ways to set up an herb garden.

• You can do a DIY set-up which only requires a few things available at any garden supply store:

o Small stones

o Pots with proper drainage

o Small plates

o Organic potting soil

o Seeds

• Or, you can take a simpler route and buy a kit online. They contain everything you need to start your own herb garden.

There are more plants available to suit your needs; these are just good starters. If you feel adventurous, there is a type of tree that thrives indoors and produces fruit. If you find that to be closer to your interests, be sure to check out the Dwarf Lemon Tree.

Happy indoor gardening.