Healthy indoor plants once spoke of a well kept home. The best specimens decorated the Victorian parlor; today they sometimes reside in their own space within the home—atriums and other indoor greenhouses.
People seem to enjoy sharing space with plants. Research indicates that our attitudes and productiveness increase when plants have a place in offices and other work areas. It wasn’t until the 1970s, however, that studies released by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) told us how plants actually do make the entire environment better for human beings.
NASA was concerned about maintaining healthy air within space stations. Knowing that plants absorb carbon dioxide and give off oxygen, NASA scientists conducted several studies and found that plants have the power to remove other pollutants in the air.
Air pollutants—known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—in NASA terminology, included 107 VOCs inside the Skylab space station. Some of the most common VOCs in our homes include formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. These are given off by foam insulation, particleboard, plastics, carpet backing, upholstery and drapery.
Today’s airtight buildings trap these VOCs and cause burning eyes and breathing problems. Master Gardeners learn that many of the easiest to grow houseplants are at the top of the list for removal of these toxins.
Last week’s column was about one of these healthy plants, the Peace Lily. Following is a list of six more people-friendly plants and some toxins they remove. All are relatively easy to obtain and maintain.
1. English Ivy (Hedera helix): benzene and formaldehyde (leaves are toxic to pets)
2. Gerbera Daisy: benzene and trichloroethylene.
3. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): benzene, formaldehyde and xylene (leaves are toxic to pets)
4. Schefflera (Brassaia actinophylla): benzene, formaldehyde and toluene
5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides
6. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina): benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene
Good news: You don’t need an atrium or a greenhouse to enjoy the clean air provided by plants. One 10-inch plant per 100 square feet will do the job; two to three plants per room should be all you need.
Read more in How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 House Plants that Purify Your Home or Office by B. C. Wolverton. Find it at your local library or search for it by title online.