Houseplants not only brighten up dull, lifeless nooks in the home but some species are also exceptional at dust removal and air purification, proving essential for enhancing living conditions. Gardening expert Steve Chilton, director of garden furniture company Leisure Bench, has recommended his top four plants for these benefits.
For improving air quality, there’s hardly a better pick than the spider plant. Boasting elongated, slender green leaves with hints of creamy-white, it’s deemed an excellent air purifier by Chilton.
He noted this plant is “excellent at removing dust,” making it ideal for areas prone to dust build-up. Noting their ease of care, he said, “spider plants are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in various light conditions,” allowing them to adjust to nearly any space, especially those that gather more dust.
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) describes spider plants as evergreen perennials that require minimal upkeep and are largely disease-resistant, which translates to effortless maintenance for homeowners, reports the Express.
Chilton’s also a fan of the distinctive snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, famed for its superior indoor air purification properties. Highlighting their benefits, he revealed: “These plants are known for their ability to purify the air by converting carbon dioxide into oxygen at night.”
The RHS suggests snake plants as ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance houseplant, thriving in indirect sunlight and partial shade. If you spot small scars on the snake plant’s foliage, Chilton reassures that these are merely indications of age, not disease, and don’t prevent the plant from flourishing.
For air-purifying qualities wrapped in an attractive package, the peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) comes highly recommended by Chilton. “Peace lilies have beautiful white flowers and are effective at filtering dust and other allergens from the air,” he pointed out, explaining they also counteract toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.
The RHS notes these plants desire low to moderate light and a warm setting, favouring rainwater for hydration. They do need occasional dusting but are worth the effort.
Chilton’s top pick for battling dust with greenery is the Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens), also known as the butterfly palm. He notes, “Areca palms are not only effective at filtering airborne particles but also help add moisture to the air.”
Flourishing in bright, indirect light and requiring medium watering, the Areca palm rounds off a list of hassle-free plants perfect for enhancing your home.
Areca palms, with their elegant fronds and air-cleansing qualities, can elevate any space while promoting a healthier indoor atmosphere.