Clearing the Air: Purifying Plants for Beginners

Air-purifying plants are perfect for urban and suburban gardens because they have the ability to remove or reduce air pollutants.

We've compiled a list of air-purifying plants that are native to Texas, easy to grow outdoors in raised garden beds or indoors in planters, and suitable for all gardening needs.

Why you should grow air-purifying plants

Pollutants in the air can contribute to respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other health problems. By reducing these pollutants, air-purifying plants create a healthier environment for gardeners and visitors, reduce stress levels and improve mental well-being.

Easiest air-purifying plants to grow

Snake plant (Sansevieria spp.): Snake plants are known for their resilience and ability to tolerate low light and infrequent watering. They prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. Water moderately and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Snake plants are drought-tolerant and can tolerate neglect.

Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Golden pothos is a hardy and adaptable plant that thrives in a variety of environments, including low-light conditions and drought. It can tolerate low to moderate light but prefers bright, indirect light and needs watering when the top inch of soil is dry.

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis): Aloe vera is a succulent plant that requires minimal care. It thrives in dry conditions and is highly tolerant. Place aloe vera in a sunny location, as it requires bright light. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Aloe vera prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate long periods of drought. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for beginners. They produce "spiderettes" or plantlets that can be propagated easily. Spider plants can tolerate a wide range of light conditions but prefer bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Spider plants appreciate occasional watering but can tolerate neglect. They are known for their air-purifying qualities, helping to remove toxins from the air.

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum spp.): Peace lilies are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. They prefer medium to low light but can tolerate brighter locations if kept out of direct sunlight. Peace lilies are sensitive to overwatering, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. They also have excellent air-purifying properties.

Texas sage (Salvia texana): Texas sage is a native plant that is well adapted to the Texas climate and requires minimal maintenance. They prefer full sun exposure for at least six hours daily and well-drained soil. Texas sage is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape.

Be strategic when placing your air-purifying plants in your raised garden bed.

Place the plants that thrive in full sun together and those that can only tolerate partial sun in the shade. Leave enough space in between and place your raised garden bed in a location that suits their needs.

Final thoughts

Overall, air-purifying plants are important in a garden because they improve air quality, promote health, create a tranquil environment, enhance beauty, support biodiversity, and contribute to sustainable practices.