Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk said that “condensation is a problem a lot of households will face”, which can eventually “lead to mould growth”. He added: “The good news is there are ways to control this and prevent condensation from forming in the first place. Certain plants are a great natural solution to help balance humidity in the home and they look great too.”
Some gorgeous houseplants absorb excess moisture in the air through their leaves, which then travels down to their roots, helping the plant thrive. Yet, by removing excess moisture from the environment, the risk of condensation—when water droplets form on windows, for example—reduces.
By reducing condensation and humidity in the home, mould spores are prevented from growing in unsuspecting places, such as on walls and inside wardrobes.
English Ivy is one of the best plants to add to your home to prevent condensation and mould.
Chris said: “English Ivy removes airborne mould and other nasties too. It grows best in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering.”
Another popular plant that “thrives in humidity” is the peace lily, which would grow best in a steamy bathroom or kitchen.
While the peace lily plant will take in the excess moisture, the quantity of mould growing along a bathroom sealant dramatically decreases.
“Palms are a great choice to help control humidity and keep mould at bay, absorbing moisture through their leaves,” said Chris.
“Varieties to look out for include Areca palms, bamboo palms, the lady palm, dwarf date palm and reed palm.”
Then there’s the Boston Fern, which thrives in high humidity and indirect sunlight—it’s another ideal plant for a bathroom.
Chris also recommends the snake plant, an orchid, and a spider plant. “Also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue, this hardy and adaptable plant [the snake plant] is another mould-loving variety,” said Chris.
“It grows best in bright light but will also grow just fine in low light. They love warm temperatures and require occasional watering.”
Orchids and spider plants both reduce humidity in the home and are easy to care for.
Seven mould-loving plants
- English Ivy
- Peace lily
- Palm
- Boston Fern
- Snake plant
- Orchid
- Spider plant
