Best plants to buy for bedroom

[jbischke]

Hey all. Looking to add a couple of plants to my bedroom to improve air quality. Any recommendations as to (1) which plants are best for this? and (2) where is a good place to buy plants?

Oh, and the more low maintenance the better!

[maclinda]

Lavender could be wonderful, especially if suffer from insomnia.

Do you have any plant nurseries near you? Or health food stores?

[Lola]

How many hours of sunlight in your bedroom each day? Light levels for indoor plants are a major consideration. Even the sunniest window is no match for a plant that requires full sun outdoors. And is your goal aromatherapy or combatting indoor air pollution?

Although a terrific plant - I grow bunches - Lavender is better suited for the garden, IMO. It likes a LOT of sun, is highly susceptible to root rot, and as a woody plant, requires a dormant, cool period in the winter. The cuttings, however, are excellent for aroma in the house.

According to Iowa State Univ Horticulture Dept Improving Indoor Air Quality with Houseplants some of the best houseplants for removing the toxins found in indoor air pollution are:

Palms (Chrysalidocarpus, Rhapis, Chamaedorea, and Phoenix)
Fern (Nephrolepis)
Corn Plant and Dragon Tree (Dracaena)
Rubber Plant and Weeping Fig (Ficus)
English Ivy (Hedera)
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Florist Mum (Dendranthemum)
Gerber Daisy (Gerbera)
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Schefflera (Brassaia)
Orchids (Dendrobium and Phalaenopsis)
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum)
Philodendron (Philodendron)
Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium)
Pothos (Epipremnum)
Dwarf Banana (Musa)
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Of this list, I use palm, ferns, figs, english ivy, dieffenbachia, spider plants, philodendron and pothos in my house, which are all low maintenance. (Water once every week or two, fertilize in spring and summer). The ivys and ferns are better suited to low light.

Purchase your plants at a reputable, locally owned nursery or florist. Look for healthy plants - stems and leaves are strong and of good color, roots are healthy and white but not root-bound. Ask the sales people for assistance. They're usually knowledgeable and helpful. For the most help and healthiest plants, avoid shopping the garden centers at the Big Box Stores.

[Cassie]

Thanks for the information, Lola. I'm inspired now to line my room with some small beneficial plants.

[Jessica Adlin]

Lola, thank you! This is really helpful information.

I really like having fresh flowers from the garden in my home...it creates such a beautiful, peaceful atmosphere but I often forget about the air purifying benefits of houseplants. I am reminded and inspired by your post - and am excited about choosing a few plants for each room. The list of the most beneficial plants and your input about low maintanence plants is great information.

Also, I am just seconding the suggestion that one needs to buy a plant based on the conditions it will be living in...direct sun, northern exposure, whatever...I used to just pick out my "favorites" and wondered why I didn't have a green thumb. Choosing a plant based on its compatability with its new environment has made all the difference!

Thanks!