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Student Corner

House Plants: Five best low-maintenance plants

Written by: Diya Bajracharya - 23021, Grade XII

Posted on: 01 July, 2022

Gardening is an amalgamation of art and science of growing and cultivating plants as part of horticulture (the science, technology, and business of extensive plant growth for human consumption). Its operations are quite broad, involving both food and non-food crops such as flowers, trees, and shrubs). The most frequent type of gardening is normally done outside, but it can also be done indoors. A house plant is a type of plant that is grown indoors, such as in homes or workplaces. House plants are often grown for a variety of reasons, for decoration and health benefits like indoor air purification. Tropical or semi-tropical plants are often used for this purpose. 

In the Victorian era, indoor gardening was at its greatest. Plants like abutilons, palms, and hibiscus were discovered by botanists (scientists who specialize in researching plants).  There was another indoor plant craze in the 1970s, although it was mostly limited to leafy plants like spider plants, Swedish ivy, and ferns. Due to a lack of natural areas, indoor gardening is concerned with growing plants or houseplants within a house or a building. It is beneficial to urban residents, and it is especially recommended to those who live in apartments, flats, and small houses with limited space.

Below are the five best plants that add up greenery to your house:

Peace Lily

Tropical spathiphyllum plants (also known as peace lilies or sweet Pablos) can produce white flowers even when grown inside. They can survive in low-light situations, but they also grow in brilliantly lighted environments. When the leaves begin to droop, you'll know it's time to water it. The peace lily helps remove benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, toluene, and xylene from the air. However, It includes oxalates, which can result in contact dermatitis, a type of skin irritation. Salt crystals cause irritation when crushed, chewed, or consumed, causing a severe burning sensation. If curious pets try to eat or chew the plant, they may feel the same sensation.

Snake plant

Snake plants are natural air purifiers that help to filter and oxygenate the air. The snake plant, also known as mother-in-tongue law's or by its scientific name (Sansevieria trifasciata), is a tough plant with tall, strap-like leaves that offer a unique appearance to your decor. It can survive in low-water and light settings, though bright, indirect light is preferred. Snake plant leaves contain saponins, which are harmful to pets and can cause nausea and vomiting.

Bamboo Palm

Bamboo palm enjoys bright light, it can survive in dim light if given enough water. T his plant prefers high humidity, set it on a tray of stones with water. Add more water as the first evaporates until the stones are almost completely covered. Bamboo palm is quite effective at reducing the amount of formaldehyde released into the air by new furniture. Bamboo palm is nontoxic to pets.

Areca Palm

Areca palm looks exotic, elegant, and stately. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil. It reduces the emission of benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. The Areca palm adds humidity to the air within the house. Pests and diseases are rarely a concern.

English Ivy

English ivy (Hedera helix) is a simple-to-grow plant that prefers bright light over direct sunshine. It requires moist soil and colder temperatures than the majority of other indoor plants. Except in the winter, English ivy requires regular fertilization. Ivy helps to clean the air by reducing contaminants like mold and dog feces. English ivy produces a substance known as glycoside hederin. If consumed, this substance can cause nausea, diarrhea, fever, and difficulty breathing, among other things.