Do Indoor Plants Cause Allergies?

AllergiesSome people have no allergies. They’re so lucky. Others seem to be allergic to all sorts of things, from cat hair to mold.

Allergy symptoms include itchy/watery eyes, stuffy/runny noses, and rashes/hives. In other words: no fun.

Do indoor plants cause allergies? Well, here’s the deal: plant mold can aggravate a person’s allergies. Mold is everywhere, but grows best in dark and damp places. If your house is very humid inside and you’re experiencing allergy symptoms, chances are mold and mold spores associated with plants are the culprit.

If you have living, potted plants in your home, their soil can act as gathering spots for moisture–and mold. Breathing that stuff can cause allergy symptoms for sure! One solution to combat mold spores going into the air is to spread aquarium rocks on top of the plant soil, trapping the mold spores beneath.

What kind of plants you have indoors also matters: avoid plant terrariums, plants in wicker baskets, and Christmas trees if you want to avoid mold. Pollen-wise, leafy plants are better to keep indoors than flowering ones– if you want to avoid pollen allergy problems.

There is an alternative: artificial plants. Since they don’t have soil, they won’t bother allergy sufferers. Also, keeping a place well-ventilated, with low humidity, can also help.

Foliage Design Systems of New Jersey can help you determine what works best for you and the people you live or work with when it comes to plants indoors. Foliage Design Systems offers a wide variety of plant services, including supplying artificial/replica plants for those who want to avoid allergy problems at home or work. Call 201-387-7997 to discuss your indoor plants.

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