Plants

I think, 2008 will be the year, that Anna finally figured out how to keep plants.

Plants provide more benefits than just being-good-looking and decorating my place. Plants clean the air from CO2, and toxins: in this study philodendron, spider plant and golden pothos were most effective in removing formaldehyde (which is listed as a carcinogen). A different study points out that surprisingly it is the plants' root-soil zone that appears most effective for removing chemicals from the air (I would have guessed that it would be the green parts of the plant). To put it into perspective: good ventilation and avoiding toxins at the source (e.g. choosing low-VOC paints or adhesives) are more important measures than considering your house plants as your pollution control army.

Anyhow, here are a few lessons I learned from my unsuccessful years of being a plant keeper:

• Find a reliable plant keeper for your holidays. Most plants DO need water on a regular basis (yes, it took me over 30 years to realise that).
• Don't be afraid of death. Face it and get rid of the dead leaves (or entire plant if necessary) - it looks prettier.
• Google your plant species and ask your flora-savvy friends and family for tips on watering, light, and special care.
  
• Add plant-food to the water.
• Enjoy your plants!