Calathea plants have become a popular choice for indoor gardeners. These tropical plants are admired for their aesthetic appeal. As interest in improving indoor air quality through natural means grows, many consider houseplants like Calatheas for their potential contributions.
How Plants Clean Indoor Air
Plants engage in several natural processes that influence indoor air composition. The most widely recognized is photosynthesis, where plants absorb carbon dioxide, convert it into energy, and release oxygen as a byproduct. This gas exchange helps regulate carbon dioxide levels and increases oxygen concentration indoors.
Beyond oxygen production, plants absorb various airborne pollutants. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which emanate from common household items like furniture, cleaning products, and paints, are taken in through tiny pores on plant leaves called stomata. These compounds are then processed by the plant.
The plant’s root system and its associated microorganisms also play a part in air purification. Microbes residing in the soil actively break down pollutants that are transported from the leaves to the roots. This collaborative action between the plant and its soil microbiome enhances the overall air-cleaning capacity.
Calatheas as Air Purifiers
Calathea plants contribute to indoor air quality, primarily due to their substantial leaf surface area. Their large leaves absorb airborne particles and gases, effectively taking in common indoor pollutants.
Studies, including NASA’s research into sealed environments, indicate that certain houseplants can help mitigate levels of various volatile organic compounds. Calatheas are noted for their capacity to filter out substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
Calatheas also contribute by releasing moisture through their leaves, which helps trap airborne dust and allergens. Regular dusting of their leaves helps maintain their air-purifying efficiency.
Beyond Air Purification
Calathea plants offer additional benefits beyond air purification. Their striking patterns and diverse colors, ranging from deep greens to purples and pinks, add significant visual interest to any room.
Calatheas prefer high humidity and naturally increase moisture levels in the air through a process called transpiration. This release of water vapor helps in dry indoor climates, potentially alleviating issues like dry skin, irritated throats, and static electricity. Grouping several Calatheas together can further amplify this localized humidity.
The presence of houseplants, including Calatheas, is associated with positive impacts on mental well-being. Caring for these plants can reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a more relaxed atmosphere in the home.
Realistic Expectations
While Calathea plants and other houseplants contribute to indoor air quality, it is important to have realistic expectations regarding their overall impact. The air purification capabilities observed in controlled laboratory settings, such as the initial NASA Clean Air Study, differ from typical home environments. These studies often used sealed chambers, which do not account for the constant airflow and ventilation present in most residences.
To achieve a substantial improvement in air quality solely through plants, a very high density would be required. Some research suggests needing anywhere from 10 to 100 plants per square meter, or hundreds of plants for a typical home. Such numbers are often impractical for most living spaces.
Therefore, while Calatheas offer a natural complement to indoor air quality efforts, they are not a complete substitute for mechanical air purifiers or consistent ventilation. Incorporating plants should be viewed as one component of a comprehensive strategy that also includes regular cleaning, proper airflow, and addressing sources of indoor pollutants.