During the colder months, the risk of damp and mould in your home increases, posing potential health risks, particularly respiratory issues, for you and your family. Mould can be especially problematic for those who suffer from asthma or allergies. But according to experts at Gardeningexpress.co.uk, there’s a natural remedy: houseplants.
Not only do they fend off mould, they also bring a touch of verdant beauty to your living spaces. Chris Bonnett from Gardeningexpress.co.uk advises: “Condensation is a problem a lot of households will face during the winter. Too much of it can cause some serious problems and lead to mould growth.
“The good news is there are ways to control this and prevent condensation from forming in the first place. If your windows are particularly steamy, it means you need to bring down the moisture levels in your home and plants can help do this.”
“Certain plants are a great natural solution to help balance humidity in the home and they look great too.” Some houseplants like the peace lily will absorb moisture through its leaves which will then travel through to their roots.
For those eager to incorporate functional greenery into their homes, expert recommendations include the English Ivy, known for removing airborne mould, requiring bright, indirect light and frequent watering but note its toxic leaves should be kept away from pets, reports the Express.
The Boston Fern is a plant that thrives in humid environments, naturally absorbing moisture from the air and helping to regulate humidity levels in your home. This lush plant requires only indirect sunlight and regular watering to flourish.
Snake plants, often referred to as the mother-in-law’s tongue are a resilient and versatile plant that can improve mouldy conditions. It grows optimally in bright light but can also thrive in low light.
This striking plant prefers warm temperatures and needs watering only occasionally.
Palms are an excellent option for managing humidity and preventing mould, as they absorb moisture through their leaves. Varieties to consider include Areca palms, bamboo palms, the lady palm, dwarf date palm and reed palm.
The peace lily is a shade-loving plant that flourishes in high humidity, making it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to mould. It absorbs moisture from the air through its leaves and doesn’t require direct sunlight to thrive.
While this plant boasts beautiful white flowers, it can be toxic to pets, so ensure it’s kept out of their reach. You’ll know when it needs watering as this dramatic lily will droop – but don’t worry, a good watering and it’ll perk right back up.
Orchids are not only visually stunning, but they also help decrease humidity in the home. They draw all their nutrients and moisture from the surrounding air.
This indoor plant is a favourite among homeowners for its ability to eliminate harmful pollutants. Plus, it’s low-maintenance and only requires watering once or twice a week.