Green Earth Friends | Green Up Your Home with Houseplants

It's not pleasant to think about, but we all have pollution inside our homes. Regardless of how shiny the inside of your home may appear or how much scrubbing and cleaning you do, it's what you can't see that can be harmful. Many common household products and building materials are responsible for the contaminants found in our indoor environments. So, what's the solution? Well, it just may be that beautiful, green peace lily sitting by the window in your living room.

Okay, houseplants can't single-handedly remove major air pollution in your home, but they can certainly reduce the number of toxins found indoors. We also know that plants are great for adding moisture to the air and producing oxygen. English Ivy, Janet Craig Dracaena, Weeping Fig and the Peace Lily are just a few of the houseplants that are very efficient at removing contaminants from the air.

Formaldehyde is a common indoor pollutant usually originating from items such as papertowels, particleboard, carpet backings, permanent press clothing, as well as being released by gas stoves. The Bosten Fern and Dwarf Date Palm are two indoor houseplants known to be very effective in reducing levels of formaldehyde inside the home.

Toluene and Xylene are two harmful volatile organic chemicals which may be lurking inside your home, as well. These two chemicals can be emitted from some paints, stains, varnishes, upholstery, computer screens as well as many other common household products. The Areca Palm, Dwarf Date Palm and Moth Orchid are very effective in removal of Toluene and Xylene.

The houseplants that you purchased as a pretty, decorative addition to your home are working very hard to maintain a clean, green environment. So, if you have opted for the low maintenance silk variety, you may just want to reconsider. If you're looking for a simple, fairly inexpensive way to green the inside of your home, this just may be it!