Poor air quality has become a serious matter of concern, especially if you are living in a metro city. Since we inhale a lot of polluted air when we step outside, it’s better if we get fresh and clean air when we are at home.
NASA Clean Air Study, in a report in 1989, has said that the indoor plants can reduce the air pollutants present at the home and since then, several scientists have backed the theory that there are several indoor plants that give us pure air while inhaling the carbon dioxide and our harmful gases present in our enclosed environment.
There are several plants which have been found to not only purify the air, but also provide relief from certain allergies, improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels. The houseplants not only give you clean and fresh air but it also adds colours and texture to your space.
We have, very carefully, curated a list of some of the indoor plants that will help you get clean air while beautifying your living space. Check it out!
Table of Contents
How do plants purify air?
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The simple answer to this question is photosynthesis. It is a process in which plants take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen. We inhale the oxygen from the air and exhale carbon dioxide and the cycle continues and the air becomes pollution-free for us to breathe.
Some houseplants have also been found to purify indoor air by filtering out toxic chemicals like:
• Formaldehyde – It causes irritation to the nose, mouth and throat.
• Benzene – It causes drowsiness, dizziness and headaches, and can also decrease red blood cells.
• Trichloroethylene – It can cause dizziness, headache and weakness.
How to care of indoor plants
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• For clean and fresh air, it is also important that your plants are chemical free.
• So, ditch harmful chemical induced fertilisers and embrace organic ones as they will help you reduce carbon footprint.
• Organic fertilisers take care of your plants like none others and therefore are considered as the heroes for plants.
• These fertilisers provide essential nutrients to your plants without the synthetic additives that can harm the environment.
iDiva recommends: Bio Organic Manure by TrustBasket, INR 449
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The Bio Organic Manure plays a very important role in the growth of your plants. It provides essential vital nutrients for the growth of the plants and is enriched with oil cakes, vermicompost, and beneficial microbes.
The manure will improve the fertility and water holding capacity of the soil and will provide necessary supplements for the overall health of the plants. It also helps in controlling soil-borne pests and diseases.
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6 Air-purifying indoor plants for clean air
1. Aloe Vera
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• Aloe Vera plant requires lesser maintenance as compared to other plants.
• It can be kept both indoors and outdoors.
• It's a great houseplant for beginners as it doesn't require frequent watering.
• Aloe vera leaves can also be used to make homemade skincare or hair care products.
2. Bamboo Palm
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• Bamboo palm is also known as reed palm.
• It makes a great houseplant as it requires part sun and part shade.
• Planting a bamboo palm will also be beneficial for aiding in the removal of harmful elements such as benzene and formaldehyde.
• It is also a great plant for indoor decorand will give your space a touch of elegance and a modern twist.
3. Queen Fern
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• This fern prefers bright and indirect light, but can also survive in the direct sun if the soil is kept moist.
• It loves the humidity, so it's ideal to keep it either in the bathroom or kitchen. However, if you want to keep it in the living room, you will need to set it up next to a small humidifier.
• It also helps remove pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, toluene and benzene.
• Since the queen ferns have flowing leaves, it will make a great decor if you hang it to add a pop of green to a room.
4. Rubber Tree
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• The Rubber tree creates a bold aesthetic with its dark, glossy green and burgundy leaves.
• If compared to other indoor plants, it requires a little extra care.
• Grow a Rubber tree in well-drained potting soil, water regularly and apply liquid fertiliser when they're actively growing.
• If the plant is taken care of really well, it can grow between eight and 10 feet tall.
• Rubber trees are known for their impeccable quality of absorbing and breaking down harmful chemicals present in the air and therefore, are a perfect choice as houseplant.
• Their large, glossy leaves take in the carbon dioxide we exhale and convert it to oxygen.
• However, you have to be a little careful if you have pets or small children. The Rubber Tree is toxic if the leaves are ingested or if the sap sits on the skin for too long.
5. Snake Plant
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• If you are new at gardening, then this plant will be your best choice as it can survive in some of the toughest conditions, with little water and light.
• It can go weeks without care and therefore is known as one of the most low-maintenance houseplants.
• Its beautiful deep green leaves will make your space feel lush.
• You can also keep this plant in your bedroom as it releases oxygen at night, helping you to breathe better while sleeping.
• It is one of the best plants for filtering formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, toluene, and trichloroethylene present in the air.
6. Peace Lily
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• Peace lilies are relatively easy to care for. It can tolerate short periods of dry soil and show signs that it needs to be watered.
• It blossoms in low to medium light and enjoys consistently moist soil.
• It is known for its ability to fight against toxic gases such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.
• The plant can be mildly toxic to cats and dogs. So, make sure your pets don’t reach the plant and wash your hands after touching it.
• Not only will it give you pure air, but it will also add elegance to your space.
Social and lead images credits: Red Chillies Entertainment
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