Determining the quantity of plants suitable for your residence.
In a joint research effort with scientists at RMIT University in Melbourne, the Plant Life Balance study did not disclose the exact number of plants needed for optimal health and happiness in a home, but it did shed light on some key factors that influence the number of plants required for a cleaner and healthier living space.
The overall leaf surface area determines the number of plants required to clean a home space. Larger and more leafy plants are more effective at purifying indoor air. However, it's important to note that the rate at which a plant can remove pollutants from the air is associated with the rate at which water is lost.
NASA's original recommendation, from a 1989 study, is to have at least one air-purifying houseplant per 100 square feet of room space. This baseline can be adjusted based on the size of the plants and the specific room conditions or usage. For instance, in a 200-square-foot room, two plants are suggested; for a smaller bedroom of about 100 square feet, one to two plants such as peace lilies, pothos, or English ivy would be suitable. Grouping plants enhances their effectiveness in filtering various pollutants and also increases ambient humidity, contributing to overall well-being. Different plants specialize in removing different toxins—peace lilies remove formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, while English ivy filters formaldehyde and airborne particulates.
Plant placement matters: place plants near windows in bedrooms for light but away from drafts, and near pollution sources like printers in offices to maximize benefit. Additionally, plant care has mental health benefits, including stress reduction and improved focus.
More recent research confirms that in a 3 by 3 metre room, one plant produces 45% cleaner air and a modest level of mental health, while two plants can produce up to 75% cleaner air and 50% better mental health. In a 4 by 5 metre room, one plant brings minimal mental health benefits, five plants increase mental wellbeing by 60%, and ten plants maximize the health and wellbeing advantages.
However, it's essential to remember that houseplants can clutter a home and make it feel like an untamed jungle if there are too many or they are neglected. Scientific research has proven that plants have a favorable impact on local environments and human well-being, but striking a balance is crucial. Some plants are more effective at filtering indoor air due to their higher microbe content in the roots.
In summary, aim for roughly one plant per 100 square feet, adjust based on plant size and room specifics, use a mix of species to target different pollutants, and group plants for amplified effects and well-being improvements. And remember, being more relaxed, having higher productivity, getting a better night's sleep, and being able to deal with life better are some wellbeing benefits of having plants.
- The Plant Life Balance study, in collaboration with scientists, revealed the significance of overall leaf surface area in determining the number of plants needed for a cleaner and healthier living space.
- Larger and leafier indoor plants are more effective at purifying air compared to smaller ones, but the rate at which they can remove pollutants is associated with the rate of water loss.
- In accordance with NASA's 1989 study, it's suggested to have at least one air-purifying houseplant per 100 square feet of room space, but this baseline can be adjusted based on plant size and room conditions.
- Different plant species specialize in removing specific toxins; for example, peace lilies remove formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, while English ivy filters formaldehyde and airborne particulates.
- According to recent research, grouping plants enhances their effectiveness in filtering various pollutants and also increases ambient humidity, contributing to mental health benefits like stress reduction and improved focus.
- In choosing the ideal number of plants for a specific space, it's essential to consider the potential clutter that might result from too many plants or neglected care, as scientific research proves the positive impact of plants on local environments and human well-being, but striking a balance is crucial.
