In the constant search to improve the quality of the air we breathe in our homes, NASA's Clean Air Study has shown that some plants have the power to purify indoor air by eliminating toxins and improving air quality. If you live in Colombia and want to enjoy a healthier environment in your home, we present the five best air-purifying plants recommended by NASA, along with valuable tips for their care.
1. Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens):
The Areca is a very popular indoor plant in Colombia due to its lush foliage, easy care and effectiveness in purifying the air. According to the NASA study, the Areca is highly efficient in eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as formaldehyde and benzene, which are highly harmful to human health.
Care Tips:
Location: Place it in a place with bright indirect light.
Watering: Keep the substrate slightly moist and avoid puddling the water in the saucer.
Humidity: Appreciates humid environments, spray water on its leaves occasionally.
2. Mother-in-law's Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata):
Mother-in-law's Tongue is known for its resistance and ease of care. It is an excellent plant to purify the air by eliminating formaldehyde and trichloroethylene.
Care Tips:
Lighting: Tolerates various light conditions, from bright light to partial shade.
Watering: Allow the substrate to dry completely between waterings.
Temperature: Adaptable to different temperatures, but prefers warm environments.
3. Miami – Pothos (Epipremnum aureum):
Potho is a climbing plant that not only adds a decorative touch to your home, but also improves air quality by filtering toxins such as formaldehyde.
Care Tips:
Lighting: Tolerates from indirect light to shade, avoid direct sunlight.
Watering: Keep the substrate slightly moist in spring and summer, reduce in winter.
Pruning: Pruning the tips helps maintain its shape and promotes growth.
4. Marginal Dracaena (Dracaena marginata):
With its characteristic stylized appearance and red leaves, the Marginal Dracaena is another excellent option to purify indoor air, eliminating toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene.
Care Tips:
Light: It requires bright light but avoids direct exposure to the sun.
Watering: Keep the substrate slightly moist, without flooding.
Humidity: Spray water on the leaves to increase humidity in dry environments.
5. White Anthurium – Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.):
The Peace Lily is a very popular indoor plant in Colombia due to its beautiful white flowers. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, it is effective at eliminating toxins such as ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde.
Care Tips:
Soil: It prefers a substrate rich in organic matter and well drained.
Watering: Keep the substrate moist but avoid excess water.
Flowering: Remove wilted flowers to promote continuous flowering.
Integrating these purifying plants into your home will not only improve the quality of the air you breathe, but will also add a touch of nature and serenity to your indoor spaces. Remember that each plant has its own care preferences, so dedicate time and attention to make them thrive and give you the greatest benefits. Breathe clean air and live healthier with these wonderful Colombian plants!