I’m no green-fingered gardener and plants generally don’t last long once they enter my home. But the fact that there are moisture sucking plants out there that can improve the air quality in your home was enough to get my attention.
I’m not exactly green-fingered and plants don’t usually thrive under my care. However, the idea of moisture-absorbing plants that can enhance the air quality in your home certainly piqued my interest.
Indeed, there are several smart houseplants that can absorb moisture from the air, helping to prevent mould accumulation.
Keen to test one out, I managed to snag a Sansevieria Trifasciata – also known as a snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue – from Lidl for a mere £7.99.
These plants boast tall, flat, tongue-like leaves that grow upright and flourish in warm conditions with bright filtered light or semi-shaded areas, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Our bathroom fits the bill perfectly and, being a family of four, it gets particularly damp due to heavy shower use. We lack an extractor fan, so we depend on opening the window, but this doesn’t always keep the dampness at bay and mould spores quickly accumulate near the ceiling.
Our reliable snake plant has been perched on the windowsill for several weeks now and it’s made a significant difference.
I’m not claiming it’s completely eradicated the mould – and we still need to air the room thoroughly – but the moisture doesn’t linger nearly as long with this plant absorbing what it can.
I appreciate that there’s no ongoing cost and it certainly looks more appealing than a bulky plastic dehumidifier occupying space, especially in the ceramic pot it comes with.
Moreover, it’s a breeze to maintain and seems to flourish with minimal care. The RHS guide even describes the plant as ‘tolerant of neglect’.
It requires just a smidgen of water every two weeks and prefers the soil to be dry to touch between watering.
In addition to its love for moisture, the snake plant can also help regulate airflow by transforming carbon dioxide into oxygen, and eliminating airborne irritants. Many folks swear by them for purifying air in the bedroom and promoting a better night’s sleep.
And if that’s not enough to convince you to get one, according to the ancient practice of Feng Shui, the plant also brings good fortune and dispels negative energy. I haven’t hit the jackpot yet, but who knows?
Other common house plants known to combat mould include spider plants, orchids, Boston fern, English ivy, peace lily and palm plants. Pet owners should note that some are toxic to animals, including the snake plant, so they need to be kept out of reach.
Besides Lidl, where the snake plant is currently on sale for £7.49, you can purchase these plants from other retailers such as BandM, The Range, BandQ and other garden centres.
