Houseplants Promote Healthy Living

Houseplants are most commonly used to add color and life to homes and offices, but there’s an even better reason for homeowners to stock up on flowers and ferns – to keep their homes healthy. Recent NASA findings under the Clean Air Study have discovered that adding houseplants to indoor environments can reduce pollutants in enclosed areas up to 87 percent in just 24 hours.

Pike Nurseries takes the guesswork out of gardening by summarizing the details of the study and offering plant suggestions for Duluth homeowners to get started.

According to the Clean Air Study, the three most common toxins that are found in homes and offices are benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene (TCE). These pollutants enter our homes through asbestos, chemical cleaning solutions, synthetic fibers, carpets and insulation. Luckily, houseplants offer a simple and beautiful way for homeowners to remove harmful airborne toxins naturally and without much effort.

Everyday houseplants like ferns, peace lilies and orchids have been found to decrease levels of harmful toxins in the immediate environment through the process of photosynthesis. These plants and other common houseplants are able to absorb high concentrations of pollutants that, once processed, are harmless to the plant itself. In addition to cleaning the air, houseplants can also help raise humidity levels in the home and decrease stress levels.

Pike Nurseries recommends the following winter and spring houseplants to help keep homes healthy:

• The Ficus: This trendy tree-like houseplant is perfect for year-round greenery, and the braided trunk creates a unique, eye-catching stem. This plant is great for those constantly on-the-go – just place near a sunny window and keep the soil moist.
• Orchid: Countless varieties give gardeners numerous options, and their bright pops of color are sure to complement any room. Orchids prefer to be pot-bound and placed in bright light, but not direct sunlight.
• Peace Lily: The perfect plant for the forgetful gardener, it can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. Foliage color varies from light to dark green, while beautiful white blooms sprout at the top.
• Ferns: The Boston fern is the most common and favorite indoor houseplant because of its long, arching fronds which can grow up to 48 inches wide. They should be kept in bright locations but not in direct sunlight.

And Pike Nurseries will be presenting a special 2012 Yard & Garden Expo on Monday, March 26 in nearby Peachtree Corners with advice on outdoor spring planting.

Be sure to add the date to your calendar to attend "Let's Kick It Up a Notch!" yard and gardening expo with Pike Nursery's Mickey Gazaway.

2012 Yard & Garden Expo
"Let's Kick It Up a Notch!"
Monday, March 26, 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Christ the King Fellowship Hall