Houseplants are the trend when it comes to interior design these days, and I am all for it. Not only do they bring that earthy, natural air to a space, but they actually filter your hair, making it a healthier environment to be in. It won’t come as a surprise that most people spend a majority of their time indoors. Home is considered a safe place, but did you know that your house from the carpet you walk on, to the paint on your walls, and the furniture you sleep on can hold harmful toxins? This isn’t a plea for you to stop being inside at all, instead, just a friendly reminder to purify your space with a few house plants. Keeping a few of these in your bedroom, living room, and office can greatly increase the health of you and your home.
1. English Ivy
For filtering your air from formaldehyde, and other airborne toxins, NASA scientists names English ivy as the best. English Ivy is a beautiful dark green color, grows easily, and works great as a hanging plant. Medium temperatures and moderate climates are best for these fellahs. Ivy’s prefer to be on the dryer side and don’t like to be overwatered, so touch the soil to feel it’s dampness before watering again.
2. Spider Plant
Ths plant gets its name from the long, pointy leaves. Often striped with white and green, they pair beautifully with most home’s decor and double as a great air filter to combat air pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde, carbon monoxide and xylene.Their leaves can grow a little ling requiring some maintenance, but they aren’t too picky when it comes to water and temperature.
3. Red-Edged Dracaena
A tall floor plant, this one goes great in corners for large rooms due to its size. The red-edged dracaena has an impressive ability to filter trichloroethylene (a toxin found in paint), formaldehyde (found in wood, glue and paper coatings), benzene (found in plastics and detergents), and xylene (found in leather and rubber). A low-maintenance and strong protector from airborne pollutants, this is one plant you want to welcome into your home.
4. Succulents
Succulents make the list because they are low maintenance, can cause happiness when looked at, and no stress when it comes to caring for them. When it comes to bringing plants into the house, you’re also bringing in some dirt, and the responsibility of keeping them clean and watered. Succulents, however, are very low maintenance, and only require occasional watering. To water your succulent, give it one good soaking, and wait until the soil has become dry again to water it again… this may be a few days or a week. Succulents do best in warmer climates, so keep them away from windows in the cold months, and give them plenty of sunlight.
5. Philodendron
Philodendrons are heart-shaped plants popular in homes for their looks, and their low-maintenance appeal requiring moderate temps and watering. Also considered an air-filtering plant, philodendrons absorbing xylene, a fairly common unwanted home toxin. They can last for years when properly cared for, and grow beautiful long vines.
What do you think?