I’m not typically a plant enthusiast and they usually don’t thrive once they’ve entered my home.
However, the existence of moisture-absorbing plants that can enhance your home’s air quality was enough to pique my interest.
Indeed, there are several smart houseplants that can absorb moisture from the air and help prevent mould accumulation.
Keen to test one out, I managed to find a Sansevieria Trifasciata – also known as a snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue – at Lidl for just £7.99.
These plants have tall, flat, tongue-like leaves that grow in a rigid, upright fashion and flourish in warm conditions with bright filtered light or partially shaded areas, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Our bathroom meets all the criteria and, being a family of four, it gets particularly damp due to heavy shower use. We lack an extractor fan, so we depend on opening the window, but it doesn’t always keep the dampness at bay and mould spore patches rapidly accumulate near the ceiling.
Our reliable snake plant has been situated on the window sill for several weeks now and it’s made a significant difference.
I’m not claiming it’s completely eradicated the mould – and we still need to properly ventilate the room – but the moisture doesn’t last nearly as long with this plant absorbing what it can.
I appreciate that there’s no ongoing cost and it certainly looks more appealing than a large plastic dehumidifier occupying space, especially inside the ceramic pot it comes with.
Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to maintain and seems to flourish with minimal care. The RHS guide even describes the plant as ‘tolerant of neglect’, requiring just a small amount of water every two weeks and allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
In addition to its love for moisture, the snake plant can also aid in regulating airflow by transforming carbon dioxide into oxygen and eliminating airborne irritants. Many individuals swear by these plants for purifying bedroom air and promoting better sleep quality.
If that’s not enough to convince you to get one, according to the ancient practice of Feng Shui, the plant is also believed to bring good fortune and dispel negative energy. While I haven’t hit the jackpot yet, there’s always hope.
Other common houseplants known to combat mould include spider plants, orchids, Boston ferns, English ivy, peace lilies, and palm plants. However, pet owners should be aware that some of these plants, including the snake plant, are toxic to animals and should be kept out of their reach.
Besides Lidl, where the snake plant is currently on sale for £7.49, these plants can also be purchased from other retailers such as B&M, The Range, BandQ, and various garden centres.
