5 Air-Purifying Indoor Plants That Are Easy to Keep Alive
Now more than ever, having good air quality is of utmost importance. As all of us are spending the majority of our time indoors, whether for rest, meal times, or work, we can take an extra step to make our home extra clean and fresh with air-purifying indoor plants. The benefits of having indoor plants extend past the purposes of air purification. It can also have significant mental health capabilities and productivity. Lower stress, ease tensions, enhance creativity, and create a relaxed ambience by putting up one or more indoor plants in your abode. Here are the top five easiest indoor plants to keep alive.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant gets its name from the small plantlets that are produced on long trailing stems which are reminiscent of spiders on a web. Known as one of the easiest plants to maintain, the resilient spider plant is a silent warrior that helps to battle toxins like carbon monoxide, formaldehyde and xylene. It is also one of the few houseplants that are non-toxic for animals. The narrow arching leaves, either solid green or striped green and white, grow up to 1 to 1.5 feet long on average. The plantlets, or rather spiderettes, start out as small white flowers before growing their own roots.
Caring for the spider plant is very easy since it is adaptable to different climates and conditions. It can pretty much take care of itself as long as it is watered once every two to three days. However, for optimal growth and healthiness, put in well-drained soil in a bright space with indirect sunlight, like a bedroom or living room. Cooler climates, around 13-18 celsius, is ideal. Make sure not to overwater these plants as it can cause root rot and ultimately kill it.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
With its ability to absorb excessive levels of carbon monoxide and filter harmful toxins from the air like benzene, xylene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde, the snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a must-have for those looking for air-purifying indoor plants. Unlike other plants, the snake plant is unique for its night-time oxygen production. Its strappy leaves are stiff and can grow from six inches to eight feet tall, depending on the species. There are many different varieties and colours, but the most popular one features green banded leaves with a yellow border.
The snake plant is a hardy plant and perfect for those who are just starting their own green indoor garden. It is nearly indestructible. Just water the plant when the soil is mostly dry and avoid strong direct light. Everywhere else is fair game.
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Both beautiful and functional, the peace lily makes an excellent houseplant. Reaching up to four feet tall, the plant’s big, bold leaves frame plenty of vibrant, white, hoodlike flowers that share a resemblance to the calla lily. It purifies and cleans the air we breathe by absorbing airborne toxins such as ammonia, formaldehyde, and xylene while producing oxygen. It can even help to remove mould spores from the air and prevent the formation of mildew in high humidity spaces. If you have a pet that likes eating houseplants, you may want to select another plant instead, as peace lilies are poisonous to cats and dogs.
Like other plants on this list, peace lilies are easy to care for. They are able to handle low and fluorescent lighting, thriving even in rooms that have no windows. Water when the leaves look like they are drooping slightly. This should be around once a week. If you accidentally forget to water the peace lily for a while, don’t fret. Just water immediately and wait for it to be revived.
4. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Another beginner-friendly plant, the Chinese evergreen is a great indoor plant for air purification because of its capacity to clean out formaldehyde and benzene from the air. Its large, narrow, and glossy oval leaves on short stems can vary in colour variation, dark green, silver, or red. Choose one to match your decor and style. More mature plants may even produce flowers like those of calla lilies or peace lilies in the springtime.
As the name suggests, the Chinese evergreens can be cared for year-round. It is also one of the most durable indoor plants to keep alive since it can tolerate poor lighting, dry air, and lack of water. The low-maintenance Chinese evergreen can grow almost anywhere. Ideally, it prefers lower lighting and moderate watering. Pick a well-drained potting soil and make sure that it is moist but not overwatered. Regularly clean the leaves from the accumulation of dust by wiping them with a soft, damp rag.
5. Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens)
Elegant with delicate feathery fronds, the areca palm is a statement piece for your home. The smooth palm and narrow leaves bear a likeness to bamboo. As a natural cooler, it is able to filter the air, remove toxins like xylene and toluene from the atmosphere, and add moisture to its surroundings.
Compared to the other four plants on this list, the areca palm requires a little bit more effort. Although still very easy to keep alive, it does require more regularly checking up on. Water often to keep the soil lightly moist. Put it in a bright spot. The plant will also need to be repotted every two to three years as the crowded roots limit the size of the plant. If you manage to keep the areca palm healthy, it can last for up to ten years and reach six to seven feet.
Whether you are staying in a different city for work or in the comfort of your own apartment, effortlessly transform your space into a home with these easy-to-maintain plants. Freshen up the living or working area and enjoy all the visual and functional benefits. Work more productively, lower stress, and breathe clean air.
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