With people spending more time indoors, many folks have turned to indoor greenery to make their homes feel fresh, open, and cozy. It has become a common trend to bring in limitless quantities of indoor plants in the pursuit of Pinterest-approved beauty. However, there is a catch: not all choices will work well in your area, and you should do your homework before stopping by the greenhouse to fill up your home. You may want to think carefully before purchasing any of these popular choices below, whether they’re terrible for allergies, dangerous to your children or pets, or nearly impossible to maintain alive.
Here are some of the worst household plants that you should definitely avoid bringing into the home.
Fern
Ferns are one of the most popular houseplants, but they may also trigger allergic responses. This is largely attributed to the spores they produce, which may be a significant source of worry for seasonal allergy sufferers. Consider bringing ferns outside, where they may flourish in hanging pots or planters and spread their spores more easily.
Fig
Fig trees are one of the most popular indoor plants, but they are also probable allergy triggers. The sap on the thick leaves combines with dust particles to create a powerful allergen that causes responses more often than any other pot plant. Because the structure of the ficus plant and proteins found in latex is similar, figs may be particularly troublesome for individuals with a latex allergy. Most of the popular types, such as rubber plants and weeping figs, may trigger allergic responses in certain people.
Palm
Palms are low-maintenance plants with a cute, tropical appearance that may trigger allergic responses if not handled properly. Fortunately, with a little information, avoiding the sniffles is simple. Just be sure you choose a female plant since only males produce pollen3 and create issues. A female palm, in particular, is an excellent option since its smooth, thin leaves don’t collect much dust, and it thrives in mold-free, sandy soil.
Bonsai
Buying a bonsai is essentially a miniature version of keeping a tree in your house. The problem with the Bonsai plant is that it may be very unpleasant to those who suffer from tree allergies. Even if you don’t have allergies, be cautious while watering or trimming it: pricking your skin may cause a rash, according to Allergy&Air.
Plant ZZ
The ZZ plant is one of the most unusual plants you can bring to your indoor jungle, and it’s also very hardy, especially in low-light conditions. However, there is a drawback: the whole item is poisonous and may be very hazardous to children and dogs, producing discomfort or a burning feeling if eaten or rashes just by touching it.
Succulents
Succulents are becoming more popular in people’s homes, and for good reason: they’re cheap and look great, so why not start stocking up? If you do choose to take a batch home, be cautious. Mealybugs, which are teeny-tiny insects that spread quickly to other plants and are difficult to eradicate, may infect them.