Another plant bites the dust.
The plant experts behind the popular social media account Root Growings recently shared a video about indoor plants that can help reduce dust in your home.
“Discover three houseplants that combat dust in your home,” read the caption on the video with 2.1 million views. “Improve air quality and reduce health risks.”
Pygmy Date Palm
The Pygmy date palm, aka Phoenix roebelenii, is a great plant for removing dust in your home, according to Root Growings.
“This is a small palm tree with feathery fronds that can catch dust with their tiny hairs,” they said. “It also absorbs some harmful gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.”
The Pygmy date palm is pet-friendly and requires bright lighting, moderate water, regular misting and fertilizing for care.
Fiscus Elastica
Next up: the Fiscus Elastica, also called the rubber plant.
“This is a large plant with glossy leaves that have a waxy coating that attracts dust,” he revealed.”It also removes some toxins like benzene and xylene and needs bright light, water when dry and monthly fertilizing and pruning.”
However, the rubber plant can be toxic to pets if ingested and should be kept in a place where animals can’t reach it.
Spider Plants
Another plant the green thumb professionals recommended is the Spider Plant, or chlorophytum comosum.
“This is a low-maintenance plant with slender leaves that have fine hairs that trap dust,” said Root Growings. “It also eliminates some pollutants like formaldehyde and carbon monoxide.”
Spider plants can tolerate low and indirect lighting, require well-draining soil and benefit from regular fertilization and trimming.
Despite the helpful tips, many viewers online disagreed with the professionals over dust reduction.
“[They] don’t actually reduce dust at all,” one critic clarified. “Their leaves attract dust.”
“You end up having to dust their leaves with a damp cloth as well as the rest of the house,” added another.
Meanwhile, one man is grateful he stumbled across the green hack.
“Thank you for the suggestions!” he commented. “With the increase in air pollution, these plants are a must-have at home.”
