Expert: Darlene K. Kittle - 6/18/2006

Question
what plants best clean air of cigarette smoke and mold...i don't smoke, but live in apartment where others smoke drift in...i have allergies and it really bothers me...thankyou

Answer
Michael,

Houseplants can clean the air of tobaco smoke and other chemicals that we bring in when we buy new clothes and furniture. They cannot remove mold from the air. I beleive all my plants help with my allergies a lot.

Houseplants are our often-overlooked helpers in ridding the air of pollutants and toxins, counteracting outgassing and contributing to balanced internal humidity.

It is suggested that one plant should be allowed for approximately 10 square yards of floor space, assuming average ceiling heights of 8 to 9 feet. This means that you need two or three plants to contribute to good air quality in the average domestic living room of about 20 to 25 square yards.

Research has shown that these 10 plants are the most effective all-around in counteracting offgassed chemicals and contributing to balanced internal humidity.

* Areca palm
* Reed palm
* Dwarf date palm
* Boston fern
* Janet Craig dracaena
* English ivy
* Australian sword fern
* Peace Lily
* Rubber plant
* Weeping fig

Although many plants like light, they do not all have to be placed near windows. Many indoor plants originated in the dense shade of tropical forests and have a high rate of photosynthesis. These are ideal for the home and can be placed in darker corners. When positioning plants, try to strike a balance between light and ventilation because the effect of plants on indoor air pollution appears to be reduced if they are set in a draft.

Good luck,
Darlene