Nearly countless studies have found that having more plants in one’s home can improve the mood, concentration and even memory attention of inhabitants. Just the sight of them is well-known to reduce stress. One of the reasons behind this benefit is that plants are the opposite of humans when it comes to breathing, releasing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. They freshen the air while eliminating harmful toxins.
NASA research, in association with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), revealed that plants can remove up to 87 of toxins in the air during every 24-hour period, including formaldehyde, which is found in cigarette smoke, plastic grocery bags, vinyl and other items, vinyl, as well as benzene and trichloroethylene, substances in paints, solvents, man-made fibers and inks. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like these, when allowed to remain, can stick around for years. They can gradually wear away at occupants’ immune systems, but by adding plants, it can help balance things out, decreasing the instance of developing flu-like symptoms, colds, coughs, headaches, and lessening fatigue.
While plants provide us with lots of health benefits, they can also be used to simply enhance the appearance of a home. Here’s a few tips to help you get started.
Add Attractive Plants That Reduce Humidity
Adding to the look of your home while reducing its humidity can be accomplished by using certain plants that serve as a natural humidifier such as Boston ferns, those gorgeous exotic plants with elegantly arching, frilly leaves. A moist environment is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can lead to all sorts of symptoms for occupants, like congestion, sneezing and coughing, watery eyes, itching, fatigue and even respiratory infections. But this fern that thrives in a moist climate will naturally absorb the humidity in your home, balancing humidity levels while removing unwanted toxins.
Ferns look great hanging from baskets. You can hang them strategically around your home, but be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and mist the leaves regularly with water. Spider plants, English ivy and palms are all great for decreasing humidity too.
Plants For Smaller Spaces
Say, for example, you’ve found your ideal place to live among the homes for sale in Dallas, TX, but its urban setting means the space is rather small. There are lots of ways to creatively place plants to make greenery work in even the smallest of spaces. You can put them on a balcony or window sills, use plant stands, bar carts, vertical gardens and so on. Air plants are especially adaptable and can be displayed in just about any kind of vessel in all types of locations.
Fill an Empty Space with a ‘Plant Corner’
If you’re dealing with the opposite problem and have empty spaces in your home which is the case with many homes for sale in Vancouver, you’d like to fill, try making a whimsical plant corner. Simply add various layers of plants by using stands in different heights. You might add long draping plants, a shelf with tiny potted plants, and so on too – get creative!
