Best Air Purifying Plants

In 1989, NASA discovered that houseplants can absorb harmful toxins from the air, especially in enclosed spaces with little air flow.

Todays households are often filled with toxins such as formaldehyde (found in household products and building supplies), benzene (in plastics and resins), and trichloroethylene (in adhesives)

Scientist have discovered that plants not only clean the air but also:

  • increase mood and productivity
  • enhance concentration and memory
  • reduce stress and fatigue

 

NASA recommends two or three plants in 8 to 10-inch pots for every 100 square feet. Some plants are better at removing certain chemicals than others. You’ll benefit the most when you include a variety of plants in a room.

Here are six easy care, air purifying favorites everyone should add to their collection:

 

1.Spider Plants- powerful air purifiers which are able to remove formaldehyde and carbon monoxide. Considered easy growers. Keep  moist and position in a medium to low light area.

 

2. Philodendrons- excellent air purifiers that remove formaldehyde gases from the air. Very easy to grow in full sun to shade. Choose from upright or trailing varieties.  

3. Peace Lily- a beautiful easy-care plant with lovely white flowers.  Peace lilies are known to clean the air of alcohols, acetone, trichloroethylene, benzene, and formaldehyde. Keep moist and in a semi-shady location. 


4. Snake Plant- also known as “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” is very easy to grow. Water heavily then let it dry out before watering again. It can survive any location from sun to shade. 

 

5. Dracaena- keep moist in a semi-sunny to shady location. Excellent at removing toxins like xylene and formaldehyde

6.  English Ivy- hardy plant that is easy to grow. It removes most pollutants. It is not fussy about light and can survive sun to shade. Prefers to stay cool and moist.