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The
Benefits of Plants
Cleaner
Air
All
indoor plants will clean your air and act as a natural filter,
but some do the job a little better than others. Typically
ivies, poinsettias, palms (lady palms and areca palms), peace
lilies, Boston ferns and spider plants are great at improving
the air quality in your environment.
Reduced
Humidity Levels
Plant
transpiration works to create an indoor humidity level that's
ideal for humans. Remember, if the air's too dry, you're
vulnerable to flu and colds, but if it's too humid, it can be
uncomfortable or cold. Through transpiration and evaporation,
indoor plants help to regulate the humidity in your home,
keeping it at an ideal level.
Reduced
Noise Levels
Plants
can actually absorb, reflect and diffract sound. While this
difference is more noticeable in environments with hard surfaces
and harsh corners, plants can and will diffuse noise and loud
echoes. The Peace Lily and the Sweetheart Plant are both good
examples of plants that can diffuse sound.
How
to Decorate With Plants
Group
Them Together
Group
plants together if you want to not only create an indoor green
space and nice arrangement, but also take advantage of a big
window with lots of sunlight.
Repot
Your Plants Regularly
Typically
a spring chore, repotting your plants will give them new life
and infuse them with healthy new soil. Remember to always wash
out a pot thoroughly before you put a plant back inside it.
Make
Your Plants Functional
Try
to keep plants that have a functional purpose in your home. For
example, have an aloe vera plant handy for cuts, bruises and
burns. Or, keep a handy herb garden on your kitchen window
ledge. You'll benefit from the beauty of the plants, but also
the extra flavors in your cooking.
Protect
Your Plants from Your Pets
If
your cat or dog likes to destroy house plants, set up a few
deterrents to keep your plants healthy and thriving. You can
plant toothpicks in the soil as the sharp points will deter your
pets. Another method involves spraying the plants with a
diffused garlic, pepper and water mixture. The unpleasant smell
and taste will keep your pets at bay.
By
Greg Fisher
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