IT TURNS out if we have to leave this planet and go find life on another, me and my trusty houseplants are good to go.

Some years ago, NASA conducted a series of experiments to see which plants would help with purifying the air in space stations. The experiment resulted in 10 house plants that were not only beautiful but the best at air purifying. What’s also fantastic is that these plants are some of the easiest plants to take care of.

Here’s a list of the clean-living plants that NASA produced:

  • English ivy
  • Peace lily
  • Mother-in-law’s tongue
  • Spider plant
  • Devil’s ivy
  • Aloe vera
  • Chinese evergreen
  • Parlour palm
  • Dragon tree
  • Weeping fig.

The study further suggested that one plant per 100 square feet was sufficient in air purification.

Even though I’ve never conducted such a test to prove this, all my planty senses have known about the benefits of plants for a long time.

I can feel the difference when I visit family or friends who don’t have plants, especially in the winter.

Central heating creates such a dry atmosphere yet my house never feels like I have it on and many customers could feel the difference this summer as they entered the shop, noting the freshness from the muggy outdoor heat.

If you do have houseplants, or are thinking of starting your own collection, I’d suggest grouping some together.

Plants love a bit of company and I think helps with their growth and wellbeing.

I really hope you all had a good Christmas and if 2020 is really the future and we have to head off to far and distant planets, I’ll see you at the check point with a plant in hand.

Until next time, planters.

Plant One On Me is at 11 Upper Millergate, Bradford BD1 1SX, part of the Sunbridge Wells complex.

Instagram/Facebook: plantoneonmeyorkshire

Twitter: @plantoneonmebfd