Air pollution is a significant, yet often ignored, health concern affecting millions worldwide. Data from the World Health Organization said that air pollution causes seven million premature deaths annually.
While only some are aware, indoor air pollution is also a significant health risk. Condos are particularly susceptible to it because they are located in urban areas – where outdoor air pollution is also high. Furthermore, condo living spaces are relatively smaller and more confined, which can lead up to the buildup of indoor air pollutants.
Fortunately, there are air-purifying indoor plants in the Philippines that can help improve your home’s air quality to help your overall health, and at the same time, enhance the decor of your living space.
Benefits of air-purifying indoor plants
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Air-purifying indoor plants have become more popular in recent years, especially at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, as more and more people have become aware of the benefits they provide.
Not only do these plants provide a touch of nature to your living, but they can also help purify the air you breathe. A study by the Building and Environment Journal found that indoor plants can significantly reduce levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air, which reduces the risks of respiratory problems and other health issues.
In addition to that, air-purifying indoor plants can also help reduce stress and increase productivity. Studies show that being around plants can help reduce anxiety and stress levels – which can lead to better overall well-being and increased productivity in your everyday tasks.
Condo indoor plant benefits can also enhance the design of your condo by adding a touch of natural beauty. Plants come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect plant to complement your decor. Additionally, plants have been shown to make people feel more relaxed and at ease, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your living space.
Types of air-purifying indoor plants
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There are a lot of air-purifying plants that are perfect for your condo. If this would be your first time taking care of plants in your condo, here are some indoor plants that can help you get started.
1. Rubber plant
Probably one of the most popular indoor plants, the Rubber Plant can make an excellent air purifier for your condo. This can remove harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. In taking care of rubber plants, they require bright but indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
2. Spider plant
If you’re an absolute beginner in taking care of plants, the Spider plant may be the easiest first step for you. This plant is capable of removing pollutants like carbon monoxide and xylene from your condo.
If you’ll be taking care of a spider plant, make sure to provide indirect sunlight and water them once a week.
3. Peace Lily
Looking for inner peace? Then the Peace Lily may just be the perfect plant for your condo. This plant can take care of the ammonia and benzene lingering in your condo.
Unlike the rubber plant, the peace lily prefers low to medium light and should be watered when its soil is dry to the touch.
4. Boston Fern
One of the best air purification plants you can find, the Boston Fern may be one of the plants you need inside your condo. It can remove formaldehyde and xylene from your home, and it can also improve humidity by restoring moisture to the air.
Taking care of the Boston Fern requires indirect light and must be watered frequently to keep the soil moist.
5. English Ivy
As an indoor plant, the English Ivy can help improve the air quality of your condo. It can remove air pollutants like mold spores and fecal matter.
If you ingest it, it can provide anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, and it can also reduce coughs in relation to colds and viral infections. The plant prefers bright but indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil is dry on the surface.
6. Aloe Vera
Nope, Aloe Vera isn’t just for great skincare, it can also be a great natural air purifying agent for your condo. The plant releases oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide at night, cleaning the air in your home while you sleep.
Remember that Aloe Vera needs bright, indirect sunlight and be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
Photo courtesy of Annie Spratt via Unsplash
7. Bamboo Palm
If you’re looking for a bigger plant for your condo, then the Bamboo Palm may just be your bet, The plant can help in removing indoor air toxins like benzene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde, and it is also resistant to insect infestation – protecting your home from the pests you despise.
8. Snake plant
Another popular choice for air-purifying plants is the Snake plant. It’s very low maintenance and can help remove formaldehyde from your condo.
The Snake plant can also produce oxygen at night, making it a great addition to your bedroom. Snake plants don’t need that much water so just water them when the soil is dry.
9. Golden Pothos
Also known as Devil’s Ivy, Golden Photos is another popular air-purifying indoor plant that’s low maintenance, making it the perfect addition to your condo.
The great thing about these plants is that they are almost impossible to kill, even when kept in the dark. Golden Pothos can help remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene.
10. Chinese Evergreen
Feeling lucky? The Chinese Evergreen may just bring that to your condo while purifying the air at the same time.
The plant can cleanse your room of toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. These plants need bright, indirect light, and can be kept in a more humid room like a bathroom or kitchen.
11. Areca Palm
Another member of the tall indoor plant family is the Areca Palm. This low-maintenance plant can be effective in removing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and benzene. These plants need bright light and moist soil to survive.
12. Dracaena
Last but certainly not least is the Dracaena plant. It can help reduce indoor toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, and even carbon dioxide.
The Dracaena can also help improve the humidity levels in your home during the summer months. The plant can grow without direct sunlight, just remember to water it when the soil is dry.
When choosing condo indoor plants, it is important to consider the amount of light in your home, the size of the plant, as well as its care requirements. Low-maintenance plants are ideal for busy individuals who may not have the time or resources to always keep an eye on them.
Additionally, keep in mind that some plants can be toxic to pets or even children, especially when ingested.
How to care for air-purifying indoor plants
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Air-purifying indoor plants can not only improve air quality in your condo but also enhance its aesthetics. However, these plants require proper care and maintenance to remain healthy. Here are some tips on taking care of your plants:
1. Consider your surroundings
Take a look around at the different environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light that can greatly affect the health of your indoor plant.
Keep your air-purifying plants away from cold drafts, direct sunlight, and dry air. Make sure your condo’s temperature is consistent, so you won’t kill the plants.
2. Hydration is key.
Watering is essential to the health of any plant, even air-purifying indoor ones. Make sure to water them regularly, but don’t over-water them. Each plant has its specific needs. Allow the soil to dry out between watering, and make sure that your pots have drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
3. Fertilize your plants often.
Fertilizing can help your plants grow healthier and stronger. Plants have different instructions when it comes to fertilizing, so make sure to do your research before taking any step further.
4. Re-pot your plants when they plant is too big or roots grow out.
Like humans, plants will grow out of their shells and will be in need of new homes. When your indoor plant is outgrowing its pot, it is high time to relocate it to a new and bigger one. Make sure to use fresh potting soil and avoid burying the stem too deep.
5. Keep an eye on your plant.
Air-purifying indoor plants are not exempted from pests, diseases, and leaf troubles. So, the minute you notice these issues, isolate your plant immediately so it won’t spread. You can use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap, and remove damaged or diseased leaves.
Although maintaining your air-purifying indoor plants needs some work, the rewards are worthwhile. With these tips, you can make sure that your plants can flourish and that the quality of your home will improve.
Looking for more tips to improve your condo living experience? Check out the DMCI Communities blog for more tips and tricks.
