One of the questions we get asked a lot in the shop is, “Do plants actually purify the indoor air?” The answer is yes! Even if it’s just one or two plants, they work wonders for the quality of air in your home or office. They remove pollutants in the air and through photosynthesis, produce oxygen.
Here is a list of common houseplants that will have you breathing easy this winter, while your windows are shut tight against the cold air!
1. Spider plants.
Spider plants are great because guess what, they are so easy to take care of! They love bright, indirect light and like to dry out before being watered again, usually once a week. They also grow fast and make a lot of babies, so you can get lots of bang for your buck. Another great thing? They are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
2. Peace Lily.
If you don’t have the bright light suitable for spider plants, peace lilies are a great option. They do best in the shade and like to stay moist, but don’t like having wet feet, meaning make sure they aren’t sitting in water. This plant is toxic to dogs and cats, so be sure to place in an area where they are out of reach.
3. Snake Plant / Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Another easy plant to care for! The snake plant only requires some sun and some water. Perfect for a forgetful plant owner. These are known to be mildly toxic to cats and dogs.
4. Aloe Vera
We all know aloe is good for sunburns, but it does much more than that! Aloe plants require a lot of bright light and like to dry out before being watered again. They do not like to sit in water, so make sure you have a pot that allows the water to drain. Aloe is toxic to cats and dogs, so be mindful of the placement of this plant.
5. Rubber plants
Rubber plants are known for loving bright light, but we find that they really thrive in any light. They like to be watered fairly frequently, so that their soil remains moist, especially in winter when the indoor heat can dry them out. Rubber plants are toxic to cats and dogs.
6. English Ivy
There are many varieties of ivy, but all are great for air purification. Ivy generally likes bright, indoor light and to stay on the dry side. Water when the top of the soil is dry. Ivy is toxic to dogs and cats.
7. Money Tree
The Money Tree Plant is easy to grow – it does well in almost any kind of light, but does need consistent watering with good drainage. This plant is safe for cats and dogs and is also thought to bring good luck!
8. Boston Fern
These look beautiful hanging outside, but can be brought inside in the winter to help purify the air in your home! They like indirect light and humidity. You can use a spray bottle to water them to help create humidity. They like to stay moist but need good drainage, so the roots aren’t sitting in water. These ferns are safe for cats and dogs.
9. Bromeliads
Most plants purify the air during the day, but Bromeliads get to work at night. Bromeliads like humidity and moist soil, but should avoid remaining soggy, as that can lead to rot. Most varieties prefer bright light. These plants add vibrant color to your home and are safe for pets.