When Covid arrested the world’s population to their homes, we assumed it was the best, safest place to be. Shockingly, The EPA states, “Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations.”
An easy way to improve indoor air quality is to introduce houseplants to your space. Many houseplants remove pollutants from the air, ergo houseplants are a must! If you’re not an avid gardener, no need to worry. These house plants are low maintenance. I’ve got you covered!
1. Peace Lily
The peace lily is one of the easiest plants to grow. I’ve had mine for about four years and counting. The peace lily is known to naturally filter formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. You’ll want to place your pot at a window that receives lots of sunlight. You should give it a yearly bath by wiping the leaves. It will be able to process sunlight better when the leaves are clean. Never overwater this plant. In fact, it’s better to underwater your peace lily. Find out why here.
2. Mother-In-Law’s Tongue
Mother-In-Law’s tongue or the snake plant is a succulent and low maintenance plant perfect for new gardeners. In fact, it’s so adaptable it can tolerate fluctuations in temperature and light. Keep it moist, but never over water. Chances are, if you severely neglect this plant, it will still survive. It cleans formaldehyde, xylene, toluene and nitrogen oxide from the air.
3. Bamboo Palm
Besides the fact that the bamboo plant has a beautiful foliage, it also prefers part sun or shaded areas. It will be great for any room in your home! It removes pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide and chloroform.
4. English Ivy
Who doesn’t love running plants? They’re great for hanging baskets, plant stands or can be placed on wall units and furniture. This plant likes lots of sunlight, well drained soil and to be watered regularly. NASA’S Clean Air Study noted the english ivy for its effective filtering of formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and toluene. Here’s why the english ivy can considerably remove mold allergens from the air.
5. Pothos/Devil’s Ivy
Pothos or devil’s ivy is an easy to grow running plant that can survive neglect. So if you forget to water your pothos, not to worry! It’ll still thrive and appear as if you’re giving it lots of TLC. Pothos grows well in shade or bright light. It filters and removes benzene, toluene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, xylene and odors from the air.
Which easy to grow houseplants do you prefer and how has your air quality improved? Tell us below!
