Even with increased availability of organic and natural options, eliminating all sources of VOC’s and environmental toxins from your home is a nearly impossible task. So why not get a little help clearing those contaminants with the right house plants that will make your home more aesthetically pleasing and reduce environmental impurities.
Many of the things we bring into our homes act as a Trojan horse for common toxins such as Trichloroethylene, Formaldehyde and Benzene. Carpets, dry cleaning, plastics, particle board, news papers, magazines, detergents and cleaning products can all contribute to less than optimal air quality in your home. So here’s some friendly little air cleaning plants that will add visual appeal as well.
A two year study conducted by NASA and Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA) states that the “Philodendron, Spider plant and the Golden Pathos (Devils Ivy) were labeled the most effective in removing formaldehyde molecules.” Flowering plants are more than just a pretty face with Gerbera Daisy’s and Chrysanthemums being particularly effective at removing benzene from the air in your home. Other plants the study found to be highly effective are the Dracaena Massangeana (Corn Plant) and Spathiphyllum, other wise known as the Peace Lily. Spider plants are well known for their ability to purify the air and are wonderful for propagation, producing tiny hanging off shoots that look like dangling spiders.
Laura from The Natural Gardener added that “all plants exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen so any plant will contribute to better air quality indoors, some are just a little more efficient at it than others.” She also provided encouragement for the not so avid gardener that many of the plants on the list are hardy and can withstand a fairly wide variance of conditions. The biggest cause of plant casualties being over watering, Laura advised that if the surface of the soil feels damp it’s best not to water. Treating with a good organic fertilizer 1-2 times a year will keep them thriving, looking great and cleaning your air.
Top air cleaning plants.
Philodendron
Spider plant
Golden Pathos (Devils Ivy)
Gerbera Daisy
Chrysanthemums
Dracaena Massangeana/ Marginata (Corn Plant)
Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)
Azalea
Bamboo
Dieffenbachia
Christmas cactus.
Rubber plant
Poinsettia
