5 Great Plant Options For Your Office

Posted in Air Quality, on October 30, 2015

Are you aware that having plants at the workplace can help improve air quality? Perhaps you should consider these options. Pollution can frequently be greater inside an office than outdoors because air conditioners draw air in from outdoors, but don't filter pollutants. The air then circulates around your office continuously and combines with indoor contaminants, for instance volatile organic compounds. Bear in mind that working in areas with air contaminants and lack adequate ventilation could cause "sick building syndrome," which can cause dizziness, headaches, and eye irritation. Nevertheless, these plant options will help clean the air.

Spider Plant

These are among the easiest plants to grow, making them an excellent option for forgetful owners or beginners. The low-maintenance plant is ideal for hanging baskets, high shelves, and thrives in partial shade or sun. For this reason, you'll discover it's perfect for a windowless office or your cubicle. Additionally, these plants are beneficial in eliminating VOCs and other air pollutants. Besides formaldehyde, the plant is also an effective filter of benzene and carbon monoxide. For proper care and maintenance, ensure you plant it in a size-appropriate hanging basket or pot with rich soil. The advantage of this option is that it's resilient enough to endure occasional watering. However, if you observe brown or droopy leaves, you simply need to shift it to a brighter location for a couple of days.

Peace Lily

Although Peace Lilies are relatively small, they still have major air-cleaning capacities and enhance indoor air in various ways. The attractive plant eliminates toxins such as formaldehyde and trichloroethylene. They're also useful in removing ammonia and mold spores in the air. Ensure you keep the plant free from dust in order for it to acquire its maximum air-cleansing potential. This option enjoys the shade, so it will still thrive far from a window. Ensure you plant it in rich, potting soil and don't overwater it.

Golden Pothos

The Golden Pothos is a hardy plant that you can care for easily. You'll discover that it grows in any kind of light except direct sunlight and it's suitable for persons who don't have considerable experience with caring for plants. Besides the ease of care, the plant is one of the most efficient at air purification. Golden Pothos eliminates toxins, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene. Ensure you water it regularly throughout the growing seasons and much less during winter. Although the plant will still thrive if you underwater it, avoid overwatering it to prevent rot from setting in. Moreover, the soil should never be wet or soggy. If you notice signs of decreased growth and increased water use, you may need to re-pot the plant. You should also ensure the pot has sufficient drainage to prevent soil saturation.

Corn Plant

Over 40 kinds of these plants exist, making it easy to locate a perfect fit for your office. This plant option does well in light shade. Bear in mind that the leaves will scorch under very bright conditions and the leaves will be rather small if it's extremely dark. In terms of care, reasonable humidity is necessary to avoid blemishes on its leaves. Misting offers a good means of attaining reasonable humidity and keeping the leaves dust free. The plant can thrive in dimly lit spots, making it ideal for hallways and corners. If this plant has brown tips, cut the ends using a scissors and adjust the plant's living conditions (more water).

Snake Plant

Similar to numerous plants that enhance air quality, this plant is effective at eliminating formaldehyde and nitrogen oxide. Snake plant requires minimal lighting and can withstand irregular watering.

Given that people spend considerable time indoors, air quality is an important issue. Furnishings, cleaning products, and upholstery in offices can release various toxic compounds such as formaldehyde, resulting in health issues. Nevertheless, plants are an affordable and easy way to combat the presence of pollutants. If you require assistance with air quality issues, kindly contact us for a solution (416) 414-5690