WITH winter weather already blasting much of Scotland, people are tearing their hair out trying to deal with damp and condensation.
Whether it’s foggy windows or mould and mildew, it can pose all sorts of problems in the home.
Spider plants are hugely effective against damp.[/caption] Snake plants can also make a huge difference.[/caption]And with December right around the corner, most folk will be waiting for summer to start caring about their garden again.
But it’s a little known fact that some very special plants can actually help battle the condensation that causes chaos when the temperatures drop.
Founder of Gardener’s Dream, Craig Wilson, advises on four houseplants that can naturally reduce excess moisture and improve indoor air quality.
And one of them – the spider plant – only costs around £6.
Craig said: “Spider plants are hardy and adaptable, making them a favourite for combating dampness.
“Their long arching leaves efficiently absorb moisture and thrive in a variety of environments.
“Spider plants can even purify the air from toxic pollutants like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
“Hang your Spider Plant in a basket near bathroom windows or on a kitchen shelf.
“These plants prefer indirect light, and humidity makes them thrive in damp areas. They’re also ideal for beginners as they’re very robust and propagate easily.”
Other options include the Boston Fern, Peace Lily and Snake Plant.
Craig said: “The Peace Lily is a champion at absorbing moisture from the air through its leaves.
“Its glossy leaves not only adds elegance to any space but also acts as a natural dehumidifier.
“They filter harmful toxins from the air, improving overall air quality. The best place to put your Peace Lily is in a bathroom or kitchen where they’ll soak up excess moisture and in a spot with indirect sunlight.
“A perfect place would be a shaded window or in a corner with filtered light. However, these plants can be harmful to pets, so is best avoided if y have a dog or cat at home
“The Snake Plant often called Mother-In-Law’s Tongue is one of the most low maintenance plants you can own.
“Its upright sword like leaves are excellent at absorbing excess moisture, even in low light conditions.
“These plants release oxygen at night, making them great companions for restful sleep. So they’re best placed in corners of bedrooms or living rooms where dampness tends to collect. They’re also ideal for window sills that receive low to moderate light.”
He added: “Boston Ferns love humidity and thrive in damp spaces, making them ideal for absorbing moisture and adding lush greenery to your home.
“Their feathery, cascading leaves can bring a tropical vibe to any room. Bathrooms are perfect for these plants due to their love of moist and humid air.
“Alternatively, they can be placed in a kitchen near the sink area to keep them happy and thriving.
“Boston Ferns can require more attention than other plants but can also reward you with vibrant growth. They are excellent air purifiers and add a calming aesthetic to any room.”