IT4Kidz - a parent's resource - Features (Plants)

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Air quality, radiation and PCs

I've heard that plants can improve the air quality around a PC and monitor

Absolutely right! NASA looked into this some years ago, conducting research aimed at improving air quality in space stations and long manned missions. They researched over 50 plants and their conclusions are included in a book called 'How to Grow Fresh Air'.

Look out especially for :

Dracaena 'Janet Craig'
Easy to look after and not that fussy about light conditions either.The most effective dracaena for absorbing chemical toxins from the air - it really does help promote a healthy and stress-free environment. I've got two in my office!! Expensive but should live for decades if properly maintained (keep compost moist and mist regularly). Grows to about 4'.
Search here for Dracaena 'Janet Craig'

Lady Palm
Fairly easy to grow and will tolerate some neglect. A slow-growing plant with stems clustered together which give it a bamboo feel and looks great displayed in oriental pots. Again very expenseive but beautiful.
Search here fora Rhapsis excelsa

Peace Lily
Sadly, not a good plant for children as it is harmful if eaten and an eye irritant. But it's the cheapest one here and perhaps you can keep it on a high shelf - it's perfect for shadier spots in the house as long as it's kept out of cold draughts.
Search here for a Spathiphyllum Gigant

Pygmy Date Palm
A beautiful small tree perhaps best in a conservatory or large living room/office. It's tolerant of low light levels and neglect although performs best in full light with shade from hot sun. It even grows edible black fruit. Hugely expensive but gorgeous.
Search here for a Phoenix roebellini

Also look out for
Golden Pothos - to counteract carbon monoxide
Spider Plants and Boston ferns - formaldehyde
Chrysanthemums and English ivy - benzene
Spiky cactus (Cereus Peruvianus) - radiation
Ficus plants are also good.

And, of course, any green plant will improve the oxygenation of a room (not good for a bedroom tho as they do the opposite during the hours of darkness).

More information from a website researching the effects of chemicals on health
How to Grow Fresh Air The book lists fifty plants, with easy charts for choosing the right type, based on their abilities and requirements for light, temperature, etc. In addition to being informative, this book has beautiful photos of all the plants & is very attractive. Makes great housewarming gift! Based on the original NASA research. UPDATE : Now available in a new edition as Eco-Friendly Houseplants
Indoor Air Quality in Homes

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