loading...

Best indoor plants for improved air quality

01st September 2021

Aesthetics aside, there are many benefits of house plants, including greater oxygenation, as plants have the ability to convert carbon dioxide from the air into oxygen through photosynthesis. Indoor plants can also reduce contaminants such volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can neutralize toxins rendering the by-products neutral and safe. Another significant benefit is boosting your mental health. But before you go and buy some plants, here is a list of the best indoor plants to improve your air quality!

indoor plants

1. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

This common ivy is pretty low maintenance, but its ability to remove VOCs from the air in your home makes it extra special. You can grow it in a hanging basket for a beautiful cascade of coiling vines. It needs direct sunlight, consistent temperature, deep watering, and well-draining soil to flourish.

2. Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata)

This type of plant is very resilient as they can handle a variety of light variations, however they grow best with indirect sunlight. Make sure to not overwater! It will cleanse the air of formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide, benzene, and others, and will also absorb carbon dioxide.

3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

This stunning plant is also one of the most effective houseplants when it comes to clearing VOCs. It requires very little water to survive but must be kept away from direct sunlight as the leaves can burn. Important word of caution: Peace Lilies are toxic to human and pets if consumed.

4. Asparagus Fern (Asparagus densiflorus)

You will love its frizzy leaves and its air-purifying properties. Moreover, it’s a low-care houseplant that will only require high moisture and low light conditions. Definitely, it deserves its place in our list as the best indoor plants for air quality!

5. Wax plant (Hoya carnosa)

Its name comes from its perfect-looking, waxy flowers shaped like stars. Wax plants are drought tolerant and are most prolific in high light conditions. They will look really good in your house in hanging baskets or on plant stands, while removing a lot of VOCs.

6. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)

This small indoor tree likes bright light and consistent moisture. It doesn’t like temperature changes. Give it a shovelful of compost and a bright spot in a humid area of your home, like the bathroom, and let it work its air-purifying magic! Now, what are you waiting for? The benefits of houseplants are innumerable, and in a world that can feel out of control, making room for these beautiful, calming, and air-purifying organisms can give us back a sense of peace. You just have to make some space, find your light, and pick one of these best indoor plants for improved air quality!

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

Sources: Tannenbaum, The 8 Best House Plants For Air Quality & Oxygen, https://www.humnutrition.com/blog/best-house-plants-for-air-quality/ [Accessed 25 August 2021] McIntosh, 2020, Best Indoor Plants for Clean Air, https://www.thespruce.com/best-indoor-plants-for-clean-air-4177660 [Accessed 25 August 2021]

The information contained herein is for general information purposes only. APS Bank plc will not be held responsible or liable in any manner for any of the information contained herein. While APS Bank plc has made every attempt to ensure that the information contained herein has been obtained from reliable sources, APS Bank plc will not be held responsible for any errors, omissions or inaccuracy, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. The primary purpose of these articles is to educate and inform. These articles do not constitute legal, medical or professional advice or service.