Indoor plants not only add a splash of green and a touch of nature to our interiors but can also significantly improve the air quality inside our homes. With an increasing amount of time spent indoors, air quality has never been more important. Some plants have been proven to filter out common volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants, contributing to a healthier living environment. Here, we explore the best indoor plants for clean air, making your home greener and your air cleaner.
NASA Clean Air Study - A Foundation
The conversation about plants and air purification began in earnest with NASA’s Clean Air Study, which aimed to explore ways to create a breathable environment for extended stays in space habitats. The study found that certain plants are particularly adept at filtering out common contaminants like benzene, formaldehyde, and ammonia from the air.
Top Plants for Air Purification
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is renowned for its ease of care and its ability to combat pollutants including carbon monoxide and xylene. Its resilience makes it a perfect starter plant for those new to indoor gardening. Plus, its rapid growth and propensity to produce offspring (or “pups”) mean you can propagate it easily to purify air in multiple rooms.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Also known as the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, the Snake Plant is almost indestructible and has a unique ability to convert CO2 into oxygen at night. This makes it an ideal plant for bedroom decor. It filters out benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Not only do Peace Lilies add a touch of elegance with their white blooms, but they also are dynamo air purifiers, tackling ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. Peace Lilies prefer a shady spot and need to be kept moist without overwatering, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
The Boston Fern works as a natural humidifier and is known for its ability to remove formaldehyde and xylene from the air. It enjoys indirect light and high humidity, making it another excellent choice for bathrooms or kitchens with a bit of sunlight.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm not only brings a touch of the tropics into your home but also acts as an effective air purifier. It’s particularly good at filtering out toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. The Areca Palm loves bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels, making it versatile for different areas of the home.
Care Tips for Healthy Air-Purifying Plants
While these plants are low maintenance, they do thrive with a bit of care. Overwatering is a common issue, so ensure pots have good drainage and let the soil dry out between watering. Dust can accumulate on leaves, reducing a plant’s ability to photosynthesize and purify the air, so gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth occasionally.
Conclusion
Incorporating these air-purifying plants into your home can enhance your living space visually, mentally, and physically. They contribute to a healthier indoor environment by reducing pollutant levels, and even the act of caring for them can improve mental well-being. Start with one or two and notice the difference in the quality of air and the added beauty in your home. Remember, a greener home is a cleaner home.
Tailoring your indoor garden with these purifying plants not only brings nature closer but also significantly contributes to a cleaner, healthier living space. With these green allies, you’re well on your way to creating an oasis of purity and tranquility right in your home.