The 7 house plants that’ll keep your home cooler without you lifting a finger – revealed by a gardening expert

WITH temperatures soaring, people will eagerly be looking for cheap and cheerful ways to cool down.

But it turns out there’s no need to fork out on pricey air con…because Craig Morley, gardening expert at Budget Seeds, who has collaborated with housebuilder, Barratt London, revealed seven types of houseplants that can cool your home for free.

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How transpiration works 

The gardening whizz explains that many people are aware that houseplants can improve the air quality of your home by circulating the air and removing pollutants.

However, he warns that not enough people are aware of the air-cooling qualities of plants. 

“Transpiration is the process by which water flows upwards through a plant, from the soil to the leaves and stem,” he says.

“As well as delivering water and nutrients to the plant’s cells, this process keeps plants cool as water evaporates from the leaves.”

Craig adds: “Transpiration also cools the area around the plant.

NASA’s Earth Science Division proved this means plants can help combat rising temperatures caused by climate change.

“On a smaller scale, having houseplants in your home can help cool your home in summer – free, eco-friendly air conditioning, if you like.”

Six tips to promote transpiration in your plants 

1. Keep your houseplants well-watered 

The gardening expert explains that if a plant is not watered often, this can reduce the rate of transpiration as the plant tries to conserve water.

“Giving your houseplants ample water will encourage transpiration and help to cool your home during hot weather,” he says.

2. Increase the humidity 

Craig says that placing your plant in a wet pebble tray can also promote transpiration.

“As the water evaporates from the tray, it creates a bubble of humidity surrounding the plant,” he explains.

“Investing in a humidifier also has the same effect.” 

3. Group plants together

Craig adds: “Grouping plants together also helps to create a humid microclimate.

“This prevents each plant from drying out, which hinders transpiration.”

4. Upsize your pot

Craig points out that plants in containers may transpire less, as their roots are often confined within a small space.

“This can make them prone to water stress,” he explains.

Snake plants, peace lilies, aloe vera, bamboo palm and Boston ferns are all great options as they have high rates of transpiration

Craig MorleyGardening expert

“Of course, houseplants are usually kept in pots but opting for a larger pot can mitigate this issue.” 

5. Avoid pruning in the summer 

The gardening whizz notes that pruning can also decrease transpiration in a plant, as it reduces water uptake.

“Avoid pruning during warm weather to ensure transpiration is not hampered,” he says.

6. Satisfy your plant’s needs 

Craig explains that houseplants placed in an environment that does not satisfy their needs will not be as efficient at cooling your home.

” Consult your plant’s care tag or use the internet to research ideal growing conditions,” he says.

“How much sunlight does it need? Does it prefer dry or humid conditions?” 

Seven of the best air conditioning plants

Craig explains that plant species have different leaf structures which affect their rate of transpiration.

“A larger leaf size means more ‘pores’ through which to release excess water which means increased transpiration,” he says.

“Similarly, species with leaves that are curved or folded may not lose as much water as their shape helps to conserve water.

“As leaves age and prepare to shed, transpiration usually reduces too.”

Craig notes that it’s also believed that a plant’s rate of transpiration improves with age.

“This is likely due to the increased surface area plants benefit from as they grow,” he says.

“Some plants transpire more than others so if you’re investing in new plants, it’s important to know which ones to choose for their air-cooling properties.

“Snake plants, peace lilies, aloe vera, bamboo palm and Boston ferns are all great options as they have high rates of transpiration.”

He adds: “For anybody new to plant parenting, good low-maintenance choices include golden pothos, which are also valued for their air-purifying qualities, and spider plants, which are perfect for bathrooms because they enjoy moisture.”