NASA's Air-Purifying Plants

Indoor air pollution is often an overlooked aspect of home health. While we diligently clean surfaces and ventilate our homes, the air we breathe can still contain harmful chemicals. Fortunately, NASA conducted groundbreaking research that highlights a natural solution: air-purifying plants. This blog post delves into NASA's Clean Air Study, exploring which plants are most effective at removing toxins, how to care for them, and how to incorporate them into your home for optimal air quality.

The NASA Clean Air Study: A Breath of Fresh Air

In the late 1980s, NASA, in collaboration with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), embarked on a mission to find ways to purify the air in space stations. The result was the NASA Clean Air Study, which identified several common houseplants capable of removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air [1]. VOCs are emitted from everyday items like furniture, paint, and cleaning products, and can cause health problems ranging from headaches to more serious respiratory issues.

The study tested a variety of plants in a controlled environment, measuring their ability to remove chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia. The findings revealed that certain plants excelled at absorbing these toxins through their leaves and roots, effectively acting as natural air filters.

Key Findings of the NASA Clean Air Study

• Identified specific houseplants effective at removing VOCs.
• Demonstrated the ability of plant roots and associated microorganisms to break down pollutants.
• Showed that plants could improve indoor air quality in enclosed spaces.

This research provided a scientific basis for the belief that houseplants contribute to a healthier indoor environment. While the NASA study was conducted in a sealed environment, the principles apply to homes and offices, albeit with some considerations regarding the number of plants needed to achieve significant air purification.

[1] Wolverton, B. C., Johnson, A., & Bounds, K. (1989). Interior landscape plants for indoor air pollution abatement. NASA.

Top Air-Purifying Plants According to NASA

Based on the NASA Clean Air Study, several plants stand out as particularly effective air purifiers. Here's a closer look at some of the top performers:

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue, the Snake Plant is renowned for its ability to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, making it an ideal bedroom plant. It also effectively removes formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and benzene [2].
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): The Spider Plant is easy to grow and propagate, making it a popular choice for beginners. It's highly effective at removing formaldehyde and xylene from the air [2].
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): The Peace Lily is a beautiful flowering plant that not only adds aesthetic appeal but also filters out formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and ammonia [2]. Note: Peace Lilies are toxic to pets and should be kept out of reach of animals.
4. English Ivy (Hedera helix): English Ivy is effective at removing benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. It can be grown in hanging baskets or trained to climb [2].
5. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Golden Pothos is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that removes formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air [2].
6. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller): Aloe Vera is known for its medicinal properties, but it also helps purify the air by removing formaldehyde and benzene. Plus, it's easy to care for and thrives in bright, indirect light [2].

[2] Wolverton, B. C. (1996). How to Grow Fresh Air: 50 Houseplants that Purify Your Home or Office. Penguin Books.

How Plants Clean the Air: The Science Behind It

The air-purifying abilities of plants are a result of several processes:

• Absorption through Leaves: Plants absorb pollutants through the stomata, small pores on their leaves, during photosynthesis.
• Root Zone Purification: The roots of plants, along with beneficial microorganisms in the soil, break down VOCs into harmless substances [3].
• Transpiration: Plants release water vapor into the air through transpiration, which can help to increase humidity levels, reducing dust and other airborne particles.

The combination of these processes allows plants to act as natural air filters, continuously removing toxins and improving indoor air quality. It's important to note that the effectiveness of air purification depends on factors such as the type and size of the plant, the amount of light it receives, and the level of ventilation in the room.

[3] Kim, K. J., Kim, H. J., Jeong, M. H., & Kang, K. S. (2010). Formaldehyde removal by ornamental pot plants. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, 135(1), 28-34.

Optimizing Air Purification with Houseplants: Practical Tips

To maximize the air-purifying benefits of houseplants, consider these practical tips:

• Choose the Right Plants: Select plants known for their air-purifying abilities, as listed above. Consider the specific pollutants you want to target.
• Plant Density: A general recommendation is to have at least one plant per 100 square feet of living space [4]. For significant air purification, consider increasing the number of plants.
• Proper Placement: Place plants in areas where you spend the most time, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Also, consider placing plants near sources of pollution, such as printers or newly painted walls.
• Healthy Soil: Use high-quality potting mix that is well-draining to support healthy root growth and microbial activity.
• Adequate Lighting: Ensure your plants receive sufficient light for photosynthesis. Different plants have different light requirements, so research the specific needs of each plant.
• Regular Watering: Water plants regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture before watering.
• Leaf Cleaning: Dust can accumulate on plant leaves, hindering their ability to absorb pollutants. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth regularly to keep them clean.
• Repotting: As plants grow, they may need to be repotted into larger containers to accommodate their expanding root systems.
• Fertilizing: Provide plants with nutrients through regular fertilization, following the instructions on the fertilizer packaging.

[4] Lohr, V. I., & Pearson-Mims, C. H. (1996). Particulate matter accumulation on horizontal surfaces in interiors: Influence of foliage plants. Atmospheric Environment, 30(14), 2565-2568.

Integrating Air-Purifying Plants into Your Home Decor

Houseplants not only improve air quality but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. Here are some creative ways to incorporate air-purifying plants into your decor:

• Hanging Baskets: Hang Spider Plants or English Ivy in baskets near windows to create a visually appealing display.
• Plant Stands: Use plant stands to elevate plants and add height to your decor. Group different types of plants together for a lush, layered look.
• Shelves: Display smaller plants like Aloe Vera or Snake Plants on shelves in your living room or bedroom.
• Living Walls: Create a living wall by mounting plants on a vertical surface. This is a great way to maximize space and add a unique focal point to your home.
• Terrariums: Create a miniature ecosystem with a terrarium, featuring small air-purifying plants like ferns or mosses.
• Window Boxes: Place window boxes filled with herbs and flowers outside your windows to purify the air and add curb appeal.
• Bathroom Plants: Bathrooms are often humid environments, making them ideal for plants like Peace Lilies and ferns.

By strategically placing plants throughout your home, you can create a healthier and more visually appealing living space.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

While the benefits of air-purifying plants are well-documented, some common concerns and misconceptions need addressing:

• Do plants really make a difference?: While a single plant may not have a significant impact, a collection of plants strategically placed throughout your home can contribute to noticeable improvements in air quality.
• What about allergies?: Some people may be allergic to certain plants or the mold that can grow in the soil. Choose hypoallergenic plants and maintain proper soil hygiene.
• Are plants safe for pets?: Some plants are toxic to pets if ingested. Research the toxicity of plants before bringing them into your home and keep them out of reach of animals. The ASPCA website is a great resource [5].
• Do plants require too much maintenance?: Many air-purifying plants are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. Choose plants that fit your lifestyle and skill level.

By addressing these concerns and misconceptions, you can make informed decisions about incorporating air-purifying plants into your home.

[5] ASPCA. (n.d.). Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants

Conclusion: Breathe Easier with NASA's Green Solution

NASA's Clean Air Study provided valuable insights into the ability of houseplants to purify indoor air. By incorporating air-purifying plants into your home, you can create a healthier, more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing living environment. From the versatile Snake Plant to the elegant Peace Lily, there's a plant for every space and style.

Next Steps:

1. Identify the areas in your home where you want to improve air quality.
2. Research which air-purifying plants are best suited for those areas, considering light levels and humidity.
3. Visit your local nursery or garden center to purchase your chosen plants.
4. Follow the care tips outlined in this blog post to ensure your plants thrive.
5. Monitor your indoor air quality and enjoy the benefits of breathing easier with NASA's green solution.