Houseplants are not just perfect for adding a splash of green to any space – they can also boost your home’s safety during the winter months.
As we edge into the colder season, homes become hotspots for damp, mould, and condensation due to poor ventilation. However, certain plants have the power to tackle humidity in the air, creating a healthier environment for you and your loved ones.
It’s crucial to choose the right plants for specific areas, focusing on those that require minimal maintenance but understanding their needs for light, water, and soil is essential.
This advice is particularly pertinent when selecting plants for the bathroom. While not all the plants listed below are ideal for bathroom conditions, it’s the room most prone to excess damp, reports The Express.
Gardening Express experts have shared: “Mould in the home is caused by excess humidity. Warm rooms, like bathrooms, are at particular risk. Using plants to help keep mould at bay is a practical and natural way to control humidity and moisture in your home.”
They add: “How good a plant is at reducing humidity is all to do with its ability to absorb dew, fog and other moisture through its leaves. This moisture then moves down to its roots. The beauty of this natural solution is that you will notice an improvement while having beautiful plants to enjoy too.”
English ivy
English ivy is capable of removing airborne mould from humid rooms, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms. Experts have noted that it “grows best in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering”.
However, it’s important to keep it away from pets as its leaves are toxic to them. Therefore, English Ivy is perfect in a hanging pot or placed on top of a cabinet.
Peace Lily
Peace Lily is another plant that “loves the shade and thrives in high humidity so the perfect choice for areas prone to mould”. This plant absorbs moisture from the air through its leaves and doesn’t require direct sunlight to grow – it can even thrive under fluorescent lighting.
It’s also beneficial for those suffering from allergies or asthma, and while it produces beautiful flowers, it’s also toxic to pets so should be kept out of reach.
Snake plant
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is an adaptable plant and one of the best for condensation or moisture. The plant grows best in bright light and warm temperatures, and is fairly low maintenance, requiring watering every week or two – making it a great starting plant for beginners.
The plant comes in a variety of leaf shapes and colours, many of them reminiscent of snakeskin, and not only do the leaves absorb excess moisture, but they also filter common household toxins.
Palms
Palms are said to be a “great choice to help control humidity and keep mould at bay” because they absorb moisture through their leaves.
There are several varieties to choose from, but areca palms, bamboo palms, lady palm, dwarf date palm and reed palm are the best for condensation. Other plants that enjoy humidity are orchids, Boston ferns and spider plants.
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