Plants for Clean Air
Did you know that house plants can actually make you feel better by cleaning your indoor air? All green plants produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide during the normal course of photosynthesis, but many plants also play a significant role when it comes to absorbing pollutants from the air and breaking them down into less-harmful substances.
The Plants for Clean Air Council has documented that living plants have the ability to absorb air-borne chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene and tobacco smoke. These chemicals come from carpeting, fabrics, wall coverings and solvents like paints, varnishes and furniture. Research shows that one or two plants per 100 square feet can go a long way toward cleaning your indoor air. Although just about any plant will contribute to clean air, the following plants are especially effective air cleaners:
Chrysanthemum
Dieffenbachia
Dracena
Gerbera Daisy
Ivy
Pothos
Philodendron
Peace Lily
Sansevieria or Snake Plant
Spider Plant
Most of these plants are some of the easiest ones to grow so even if you don't have a green thumb, you can grow plants for cleaner air!
Published 12/28/07
