July 15, 2020
As we are all finding ourselves at home, we are all looking for ways to create a harmonious space. Plants and flowers are a great way not only to add life but also to purify your space.
All common houseplants have purifying qualities, but some are better than others at filtering out nasty airborne substances. Here are some of the top low-maintenance air-purifying plants and tips for taking care of each of them.
Bromeliads
Bromeliads are amazing and considered the best houseplant available to purify a space quickly and efficiently. Their bright, bold blooms make for lovely home décor as well. They prefer bright, filtered light with maintained air flow. Make sure the soil stays moist, but not soggy. For bromeliads, drier soil is better than wet. If it becomes too wet, it can rot and die quickly, so make sure the pot or container used has adequate drainage holes at the bottom.
Spider Plants
Spider plants are another great option. They are soft, flowy, and can be grown quickly from water to soil in just a few weeks. They prefer bright, filtered light and are best planted in a hanging container as they will eventually grow long spidery tendrils that hang down the sides. A pot with good drainage would work as well. Just like bromeliads, spider plants prefer dryness to wetness.
Peace Lilies
Peace lilies are both beautiful and effective air purifiers. Their white blooms fit into nearly every design scheme, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms, living rooms, dens, and more. They prefer bright light, but can grow just about anywhere. When peace lilies start to wilt, it means they need water — that’s about all you need to know to keep them hydrated. Fertilize these plants every six to eight weeks and be sure to maintain proper drainage to prevent oversaturation.
Dracaenas
Dracaenas prefer less water than most indoor plant, making these a great choice for low-maintenance homes and out-of-the-way spots. Their height and hardy constitution make this plant a prime choice for those new to plant care. You’ll need to keep the soil lightly misted rather than pouring the water into the soil directly. Always allow the topsoil to dry out before misting again and, as always, make sure the container has proper drainage.
Sansevierias and Aloe Vera
Sansevierias (also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue or Snake Plants) and Aloe Vera both fall under the succulent family. These varieties, in particular, would rather be too dry than too wet, so keep an eye on proper drainage. These plants are quite hardy and can handle direct sun. Avoid pouring water directly onto the florets or leaves, as that can cause the plant to rot. Instead, water around the base of the plant directly into the soil so it can effectively reach the plant’s roots.
Chrysanthemums
We often associate the vibrant colors of mum plants with the fall season, but mums can actually be great year-round houseplants that will purify the air while adding a pop of color to any space. Mums prefer filtered light and well-drained soils — no overwatering. The leaves of the mum plant will start to wilt when they need water, so pay attention to the leaves’ integrity. You do not need to fertilize indoor mum plants.
If you are looking for a few indoor plants, feel free to give us a ring or stop by our showroom!
