How to Make Plant Air Filters

A two-year study conducted by NASA proves that houseplants clean up to 87% of the air pollutants in the air of an average home. Just as nature intended, plants in the home can filter the air that we breathe. Plants can take any stale indoor room, purify it, and renew it. Plants filter out the toxins, pollutants and carbon dioxide.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Make a list of the most efficient houseplants in removing toxins from the air. This list includes Chinese Evergreen, Spider Plants, Golden Pothos, Ficus, Gerbera Daisy, Peace Lily, English Ivy and Dracaena.

2. Measure 100 square feet for each house plant to filter the air. Keep in mind the larger the plant the more vigorous it works to filter the air.
   
   

3. Put on your interior designer hat. Imagine which air filtering plant looks best in your designated areas. Notice the color of each area. Decide what color the containers for each plant should be. Make a note to take with you to the nursery. Take into consideration the lighting of each room. When you go to the nursery to purchase your plants, you need to discuss with the staff what lighting is best for each plant.

4. Go to the nursery and purchase your plants and containers. Keep the plants in plain, plastic planters and then place them inside new containers. The nursery staff can help you, and show you how it is done.

5. Ask the nursery staff how often you should change the soil for each plant. The soil works with the plant in filtering the air. Keep the soil fresh, so the plant is more effective as an air filter.

6. Take the plants home with you or have them delivered.

7. Place each plant in the respective areas. Notice the improvement in the air quality as well as the overall space of the home.
   

Tips & Warnings

• Talk with your nursery staff about the different types of plants available before you try to visualize which plant to use as air filters.

Resources

• Home Air Guide
• Conscious Choice