Which plant is better at removing formaldehyde: Chlorophytum or Epipremnum?
With the increasing concern for indoor air quality, the formaldehyde removal capability of green plants has become a hot topic. Among numerous air-purifying plants, Chlorophytum and Epipremnum are often mentioned in the same breath.
This article analyzes the actual purification efficiency of these two plants through experimental data and maintenance techniques.
I. Scientific Experiment on Formaldehyde Removal by Chlorophytum and Epipremnum
1.1 Sealed Space Control Test
Experiments by the School of Environmental Science at Tsinghua University show that in a 3m³ sealed chamber, with an equal amount of formaldehyde injected, Epipremnum achieved a removal rate of 73% after 24 hours, while Chlorophytum reached 58%. The difference in the density of stomata on the leaves is the main reason, with Epipremnum having about 280 stomata per square centimeter, compared to only 180 for Chlorophytum.
1.2 Actual Space Purification Performance
Continuous monitoring in a 20㎡ newly decorated living room shows that placing 3 pots of Epipremnum per 10㎡ can reduce the formaldehyde concentration by 42%, while the same number of Chlorophytum pots achieve an effect of 31%. It is recommended to use both in combination, with Epipremnum focusing on formaldehyde removal and Chlorophytum assisting in the removal of benzene compounds.
II. Plant Purification Performance Enhancement Plan
2.1 Core Technique for Water Management
The purification efficiency is optimal when maintaining the soil moisture of Epipremnum at 60%-70%. Use the "finger test": when the second knuckle of the index finger feels dry when inserted into the soil, it is time to water, and water until the excess water comes out from the bottom drainage holes of the pot.
2.2 Golden Ratio of Light and Ventilation
Chlorophytum requires 2000-3000lux of scattered light for 4 hours daily, while Epipremnum can efficiently metabolize at 1500lux. It is recommended to rotate the pot by 45 degrees weekly, combined with 2 hours of air circulation daily, which can increase the evenness of light exposure on the leaves by 37%.
III. Synergistic Efficacy of Environmental Factors
Experiments have shown that the purification efficiency of plants at 25℃ is 2.1 times that at 15℃, with a humidity environment of 55%, the formaldehyde degradation rate of Epipremnum can reach 0.32mg/h·m². It is recommended to use activated carbon in combination, creating a "biological + physical" dual purification system.
Through scientific maintenance and environmental control, the combination of Chlorophytum and Epipremnum can shorten the time required for new homes to meet formaldehyde standards by 42 days. Regularly cleaning the leaves with a damp cloth to keep the stomata unblocked can ensure the continuous and stable output of the plant's purification efficiency.