Delhi Residents Rush to Buy Air-Purifying Plants as Pollution Levels Hit Hazardous Mark

As Delhi's air quality sinks to hazardous levels, residents are turning to indoor greenery for relief. Nurseries across the national capital are witnessing a sharp increase in the sale of air-purifying plants, with customers seeking natural ways to improve the air inside their homes.

Ashok Kumar, owner of Saini Plant Home in Connaught Place, said demand for these plants has surged significantly. "Earlier, we sold around 50 to 60 air-purifying plants daily. Now, during the pollution season, sales double - we easily sell over 100 plants every day," he told PTI. Popular choices include Areca Palm, Kent Palm, and Chamaedorea Palm.

With Delhi's air quality fluctuating between 'poor' and 'very poor', nursery owners say most buyers arrive knowing exactly which plants they want - the ones known for their air-cleaning properties. The most sought-after varieties include Snake Plant, Peace Lily, Areca Palm, Money Plant, Spider Plant, Aglaonema, Rubber Plant, and Boston Fern.

At Greenways Nursery in Dera Village, staff confirmed the rush. "It's been a heavy week," a worker said. "Every year around this time, sales spike as people buy multiple varieties of palms and indoor plants."

Experts highlight that certain plants can effectively reduce indoor pollution by filtering harmful gases and particulate matter. Professor Anand Sonkar from Hansraj College, University of Delhi, explained that plants like the Spider Plant, Peace Lily, and Areca Palm act as natural air purifiers by absorbing pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and ozone. Their leaves also trap dust and smoke, helping to lower particulate matter indoors.

He added that through photosynthesis, these plants release oxygen and help regulate indoor temperature, which indirectly reduces ground-level ozone formation, a major urban pollutant.

At Sundar Nursery in Laxmi Nagar, a salesperson said prices depend on plant type and size. "An Areca Palm costs between Rs 200 and Rs 400, while a Peace Lily starts around Rs 150. Indoor plant combinations can go up to Rs 1,500," the seller said. "Some customers buy four or five plants, while others with larger homes purchase up to 30 or 40 at once - spending anywhere from a few hundred rupees to Rs 10,000."

In Rajdhani Nursery at Jor Bagh, owner Zahirul Hasan said awareness about indoor plants has grown sharply. "Social media has made people more informed. Customers now come with photos and names of specific plants they've seen online - from Snake Plants to Peace Lilies. Earlier, we had to explain the benefits; now they come ready to buy," he said.

At Balaji Nursery in Rohini, Naina said demand remains steady throughout the year. "Air pollution isn't just a seasonal problem anymore - it's year-round. People continue buying indoor plants regularly," she said.

According to Professor Solanki, different plants serve specific purposes indoors. "Spider Plants absorb carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene, making them ideal for offices. Areca Palms help remove toxins and add humidity, suitable for living rooms. Peace Lilies filter benzene and trichloroethylene in low-light areas, while Aloe Vera purifies air even at night," he explained.

He also emphasized traditional options like Tulsi (Holy Basil) for its antimicrobial and gas-neutralizing properties, perfect for balconies and courtyards. "Money Plants reduce volatile organic compounds and are easy to maintain. The Snake Plant is particularly useful since it releases oxygen even at night and requires minimal care, making it ideal for bedrooms," he added.

Every winter, as pollution peaks, Delhiites repeat this pattern - filling homes with greenery in search of cleaner air. From a Rs 150 Peace Lily to decorative palms worth Rs 1,500, and even bulk purchases crossing Rs 10,000, residents are transforming their living spaces into green sanctuaries to cope with Delhi's worsening air.