While most of us are basking in warmer spring days and eagerly awaiting summer, those with certain allergies might not be as excited. Between the constant sneezing and the itchy nose, eyes and throat, it can be hard to enjoy the season. If you’re dealing with seasonal allergies or you just want a way to purify the air in your home, consider a new houseplant. Houseplants are more than just a pretty face. Certain indoor plants also serve more practical purposes, like repelling bugs and keeping your home cool during hot summer months. While most indoor plants purify air on some level, certain species do it at a higher clip, and adding a few could help you breathe easier this spring.
Can plants really purify air?
Before we get carried away with what plants can actually do to purify air, most modern science suggests you’d need hundreds of plants to make a significant difference in air quality. But tech startup Neoplants claims its proprietary solution can supercharge plants to clean air 30 times faster.
While the effectiveness is up for debate, one thing is clear: Adding plants to your home won’t hurt the air quality. So, whether you’re hoping to neutralize toxins from a clunky HVAC or old stove or simply looking to freshen the stale, musty air in your home, here are four plants known for air purification.
Best houseplants for air purification
Researchers at the University of Washington have genetically modified a common houseplant — pothos ivy — to remove chloroform and benzene from the air around it.
Multiple studies have proven that certain plants can absorb polluting organic compounds like formaldehyde and benzene through their leaves and roots. That absorption purifies the air around the plant.
A NASA study even highlighted several plants that excelled in cleaning the air around them. If you’re looking to breathe easier, but don’t want to purchase an air purifier, opt for one of these plants for their ability to improve indoor air quality.
Marble queen pothos or devil’s ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Peace lilies are a good choice for homes without much direct sunlight.
Named for the white blooms reminiscent of a surrender flag, these budding beauties remove formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide from the air around them. Peace lilies can grow up to 16 inches tall and don’t need direct sunlight, but they do require regular watering.
English ivy (Hedera helix)
Gerbera daisies add color and pack an air-cleaning punch.
This bright and colorful flower packs a pollutant-absorbing punch, filtering out trichloroethylene and benzene, chemical compounds found in cleaners and solvents. Gerbera daisies do need plenty of direct sunlight, so keep your plant in a well-lit area and be sure to water frequently. These exotic-looking flowers are quite simple to grow. They don’t require direct sunlight and you should allow the soil to dry out in between watering. That means you won’t need to remember to water very often.
For more gardening and plant hacks, read about how to grow vegetables and how to change the color of your hydrangeas.
FAQs
The snake plant is great for the bedroom, as it releases oxygen at night rather than during the day. This can help keep your air fresh while you sleep, improving your chances of a restful night’s slumber.
Can houseplants replace a dedicated air purifier?
Succulents are good plants for beginners because they’re extremely hardy and don’t need to be watered too often. There’s also a wide variety of succulents, which means you’re likely to find one that fits your aesthetic preferences.
Is it possible for me to overwater my plants?
