The results from a clean air study performed by NASA show that the plants mentioned in this article have tremendous air purifying qualities and can remove volatile organic pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene. Here are 5 plants every plant owner should have in their space:
The Sansevieria Laurentii, more commonly known as “Snake Plant” is an evergreen perennial plant native to Southeast Asia. It is a hardy and low maintenance plant that remains very popular because of its adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. Areas with medium to bright light is best, and although it can survive in low light locations, it will grow much slower and the leaves will become a darker green in color. While other plants release carbon dioxide at night, the “Snake Plant” continues to produce oxygen, making it an excellent plant to place in the bedroom.
The Epipremnum aureum, more commonly known as “Golden Pothos”, “Devil’s Ivy”, has the reputation of being one of the easiest and most forgiving houseplants to take care of making it the perfect choice for the beginner plant enthusiasts. Give your pothos a drink when the leaves start to droop or wilt, but be sure not to allow roots to get soggy as that can lead to root rot. Although tolerant of all indirect light levels ranging from low to bright, the pothos will be fullest, most colorful, and grow fastest in medium to bright light.
The Chinese Evergreen, otherwise known as the “Silver Bay” is a low maintenance plant with beautiful two-toned leaves and stocky legs. This plant doesn't need much, in fact, it prefers medium to low light or indirect sunlight. Water the Silver Bay once per week or when the soil dries out. It’s important to make sure the soil at the bottom isn’t wet as it may cause root rot.
With long, slender curling leaves, the Chlorophytum comosum 'bonnie' or "Bonnie Curly Spider Plant" is one of the most popular, adaptable, and easiest to grow of all hanging houseplants. Although spider plants prefer bright light, they tend to scorch in direct sunlight, and can also tolerate low-light conditions. Water 1-2 times every week, or whenever the soil dries out.
The long, frilly legs of the Boston Fern plant prefer a more humid environment but are still a relatively easy plant to care for. This plant does well in bright, indirect light but be cautious of direct light as it may cause the leaves to scorch. Aim to keep your Boston Ferns' soil moist at all times, but don't allow it to sit in water. Tolerable to lower humidity levels, however a misting every couple of days will only help the plant.
We hope this article helped you learn a little more about which plants help rid spaces of pollutants in the air. Happy Earth Day!