Adventures in Horticulture

Plants look nice of course, but did you know some can actually purify the air in your house?  In March I was offered a spider plant, and after being told it could absorb indoor pollution, I jumped at the opportunity.  It was just tiny then, and since has grown wonderfully and even been put into a larger pot.  The spider plant was also appealing to me because they are easy to grow, tolerant of neglect, and still thrive in many different conditions.

Spider plant sitting in the window sill.

The spider plant (or Chlorophytum comosum if you want to be technical) removes:

-over 96% of carbon monoxide which is highly toxic to the body causing symptoms ranging from headaches to death

-formaldehyde, which disrupts the functions of the body and is a known cause of cancer, at a rate of 560 micrograms per hour

-xylene, which causes headaches, dizziness, confusion, and so on, at a rate of 268 micrograms per hour

The huge amount of carbon monoxide in particular that it can remove makes it especially useful in kitchens with a gas stove or living rooms with a fireplace.  I just love the idea of purifying with plants.  What could be more natural?

Unfortunately, the outdoor plants are not doing as well.

Zucchini plant

Bean plant

Any suggestions as to what is wrong with them or any ideas for what to do to help would be greatly appreciated!