LAKEWOOD GARDEN CENTERS O’Toole’s Garden Center 1404 Quail Street, Lakewood 303-232-6868 otoolesgardencenter.com Jensen’s Flower & Garden 845 Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood 303-237-5545 jensensflowerandgarden.com
HEALTHIER SURROUNDINGS
MORE THAN A PRETTY FACE In addition to the natural beauty indoor plants bring to a space, they can help improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Plants’ ability to help us breathe easier indoors was first demonstrated in a two-year study conducted by NASA in the late 1980s. At the time, the agency was looking for houseplants to help clean the air in space facilities. The study examined the ability of 15 houseplants to remove three common indoor pollutants — the VOCs benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene — from the air. Benzene is emitted from paints, synthetic fibers and plastics, among other sources. Formaldehyde is released from many sources, including foam insulation and plywood, and sources of trichloroethylene emissions include paints
Peace Lily Golden Pothos English Ivy Chrysanthemum Gerbera Daisy Mother-In-Law’s Tongue (right) Bamboo Palm Azalea Red-Edge Dracaena Spider Plant
SPRING 2014
and varnishes. Below is a list of 10 household plants that were found to be effective at removing VOCs in the NASA study; take this list to your local garden and supply store or ask for their assistance in helping you find the perfect indoor plant for your personal or working space. KEEP IN MIND: To establish an effective plant-based air pollution control system, you’ll need more than one plant in your home or office. The NASA study recommends using one potted plant per 100 square feet of space, in diameters of at least six to eight inches. Have pets? Be sure to ask your garden center if any of your selections are poisonous to animals.