Are Spider Plants Good for Air Quality?

Spider plants, or Chlorophytum comosum, are popular houseplants known for their long, slender leaves and tiny white flowers. But beyond their ornamental value, many people also believe that these plants have air-purifying benefits. So are spider plants truly effective in improving indoor air quality? Let's take a closer look at the scientific evidence.

The Science Behind Spider Plants

In the late 1980s, a study published by NASA found that certain common indoor plants, including spider plants, were effective in removing harmful pollutants from the air. The researchers claimed that spider plants, as well as several other species, could absorb pollutants such as formaldehyde, xylene, and ammonia through their leaves and roots.

Since then, numerous studies have investigated the air-purifying abilities of spider plants and other indoor plants. While some studies have found evidence to support NASA's original findings, others have come up with conflicting results. For example, a study published in the journal HortScience in 2019 suggested that spider plants were no more effective at removing pollutants than a control group of plants without any special air-purifying qualities.

The Benefits of Spider Plants

So, while the jury is still out on whether spider plants actually purify the air in any meaningful way, there are still several reasons why they might be a valuable addition to your home or office space. For one thing, spider plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of light and temperature conditions. They also grow quickly, producing runners that can be easily propagated into new plants.

Additionally, spider plants have been shown to provide some psychological benefits. Studies have found that indoor plants in general can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function. Spider plants, with their graceful appearance and low maintenance requirements, may be particularly good at providing these effects.

Considerations for Spider Plant Care

If you do decide to add a spider plant or two to your indoor space, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure their health and longevity. First, spider plants prefer well-draining soil and should not be overwatered. In fact, they can survive periods of drought and may be more likely to suffer from fungal diseases if kept too wet.

Additionally, spider plants may require occasional pruning to remove brown or damaged leaves and stems. They also benefit from occasional fertilizing with a balanced plant food. Overall, however, spider plants are relatively easy to care for and can provide a lovely touch of green to any indoor space.

The Bottom Line

While the scientific evidence on the air-purifying benefits of spider plants is mixed, these plants may still be a valuable addition to your indoor environment. They are easy to care for, can produce runners for propagation, and have been shown to provide psychological benefits. So whether or not you believe that spider plants purify the air, there are still plenty of reasons to enjoy their presence in your home or office.