Plants To Help You Breathe Easy

Many say that keeping indoor plants can help clean the air and remove indoor air pollution. Whilst the science of these claims is as spotty as a Begonia Maculata, it is true that indoor plants can improve one’s mental health and prevent harmful bacteria from entering the home’s biome. Some studies do claim that certain species could improve air quality inside, but more research has to be done to clear the air.

Poor indoor air quality can also trigger allergies and asthma and cause fatigue and headaches, so if you want to try and improve your air quality, or to spiff up your home, check out these gorgeous plants.

Chrysanthemums

These forever popular plants can grow well indoors. Regular watering is a crucial part of looking after your mums, and making sure to avoid getting water on their leaves is important to prevent fungus from growing. One thing to be wary of is that it is harder for mums to bloom when kept indoors rather than outside. To ensure your plant gets enough light to encourage blooms, keep it where it receives bright light during the day but close the curtains at night or make sure it isn’t near any street light. Excess light can throw its bloom production off kilter.

Parlour Palm

This striking plant is known for its air-purification qualities, more so than many other plants. The parlour palm is a popular houseplant due to its ability to tolerate low light levels and dry conditions. Parlour palms are relatively easy to care for. They prefer bright, indirect light but will tolerate lower light levels. The soil should be kept moist (but not soggy) and the plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Parlour palms also prefer high humidity levels, so they may benefit from being placed on a pebble tray or misted regularly. These palms are relatively tolerant of drought and can go several weeks without water, however, they will start to show signs of stress if the soil is allowed to dry out completely.

Peace Lily

Native to tropical regions, peace lilies enjoy warm, humid conditions and bright indirect light, however they will also tolerate lower light levels and can even bloom in artificial light. When watering, it is important to remember that they like to be kept moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, and be sure to use a well-draining potting mix. Peace lilies are relatively tolerant of both under and overwatering, but they will respond best to consistent moisture. In addition to regular watering, they benefit from high humidity levels. With proper care, peace lilies can bloom several times a year, producing beautiful white flowers that last for several weeks.

Lady Palm

The lady palm (Rhapis excelsa) is a popular indoor plant that is easy to care for. Native to Southeast Asia, this hardy plant can thrive in a wide range of climates and does not require much maintenance. The lady palm prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. When watering, be sure to moisten the soil but not to saturate it. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out before watering again. During the spring and summer months, lady palms can be fertilised every two weeks with a balanced fertiliser. With just a little bit of care, lady palms can prosper indoors for many years.

By introducing these plants inside, you may start to see an improvement in the indoor air quality of your home.

By Sarah Panther