If you’re looking to improve the quality of the air in your home, you’ve probably considered indoor plant life. While these plants don’t require any special care, they can greatly reduce the pollutants in the air you breathe. There are several different types of indoor plants, and they all provide different benefits. Dwarf mountain palms are one of the best houseplants for purification. They tolerate a wide range of temperatures and thrive in shaded areas. This plant requires water only when the top couple of inches of soil have dried out. Make sure not to overwater your plant or it will develop root rot.
The English ivy is a beautiful, trailing plant that can be grown indoors. Studies suggest it can remove up to 78% of airborne mould. Its graceful, arching leaves provide a welcome escape from the indoor environment. It is also a good option for those with allergies or asthma. In addition to its air purifying properties, this plant also reduces the amount of ammonia in your home.
Boston ferns are among the top performers when it comes to indoor houseplants. They need filtered light to thrive and have long been popular as elegant houseplants. Their low-maintenance nature means they can be easily grown indoors and are a practical choice for many types of rooms. And they’re one of the few houseplants that actually bloom! The peace lily will even tell you when it needs water!
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration and Associated Landscape Contractors of America recently conducted a study to determine which plants are the best at purifying indoor air. In the study, Dr. B. C. Wolverton discovered that plants neutralized the symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome. Unlike the air purifying qualities of indoor plants, tropical plants do not cause respiratory problems. They simply remove pollutants from the air and replace them with breathable oxygen. According to the report, one plant per 100 square feet of indoor space is enough.
Other air-purifying plants can be toxic to pets, so be sure to research your local nursery first. You can also consult the ASPCA’s list of dangerous plants. Some plants can affect your indoor air quality if they’re overgrown. A subirrigated planter can help reduce excess water and prevent mold growth. Also, check that you’re not placing any plants around your pets before choosing them. You’ll be glad you did.
The aloe plant is an effective air purifier, thanks to its unique carbon fixation pathway. The aloe plant’s stomata remain closed during the day to minimize evaporation and open at night to capture carbon dioxide. A perfect choice for bedrooms, snake plants look fantastic and do well in warm, indirect sunlight. They’re easy to propagate too! You can buy a few plants online for as little as $10.
Peace Lily is another good indoor plant, and one of the best air purifiers. Its delicate leaves can filter out dangerous gases like benzene and formaldehyde. It can survive a short period of dry soil, but if you don’t give it the attention it needs, the plant will turn brown. While it’s a great plant for indoor purification, be aware that peace lilies are toxic to cats and dogs.