Vertical gardens, also known as green walls, deliver substantial **practical benefits** in environmental design, particularly in air purification, temperature regulation, and mental health enhancement.

For **air purification**, research demonstrates that vertical wall systems with indoor plants can eliminate most petrol-related pollutants within hours, significantly improving indoor air quality .

Technologies adapted from space plant-growing systems further enable these gardens to filter air and reduce the spread of airborne viruses, including coronavirus, underscoring their role in healthier indoor environments .

The effectiveness of air purification is enhanced by selecting adaptable, pollutant-removing species such as snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos .

In terms of **temperature regulation**, vertical gardens moderate both indoor and urban temperatures through plant transpiration, which cools the air, and by providing shade that reduces direct sunlight penetration .

These systems insulate buildings, lowering heating and cooling demands, which not only saves energy but also helps mitigate urban heat island effects and supports climate resilience .

Plant selection tailored to local climate—such as Boston ferns and peace lilies for humid regions or drought-tolerant species for arid zones—optimizes these benefits .

**Mental health impacts** are significant: exposure to greenery in vertical gardens reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances cognitive function, especially in urban areas with limited access to nature .

Studies link indoor plants to lower anxiety and depression rates, and gardening activities foster life satisfaction and a sense of purpose .

These gardens also facilitate social interaction and community engagement, further supporting well-being .

**Maintenance needs** include regular watering, pruning, and pest monitoring, with requirements varying by plant species and climate .

Vertical gardens, also known as green walls, deliver substantial **practical benefits** in environmental design, particularly in air purification, temperature regulation, and mental health enhancement.

For **air purification**, research demonstrates that vertical wall systems with indoor plants can eliminate most petrol-related pollutants within hours, significantly improving indoor air quality .

Title:

Content: Green Spaces Help Alleviate Loneliness in Urban Areas, Study Shows

Researchers say natural features in overcrowded environments help to make people feel more connected.

Despite their outward invitations of endless social potential and activities, densely packed urban environments often come with the hidden (and harmful) phenomenon of increased loneliness.

According to Dr. Vivek Murthy, former United States Surgeon General under President Obama, the global “loneliness epidemic” is an overlooked consequence of urban living that carries serious lifespan reduction risks.

“Look even deeper, and you’ll find loneliness is associated with a greater risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, and dementia,” he told the Washington Post in 2017. “And if you look at the workplace, you’ll also find it’s associated with reductions in task performance. It limits creativity. It impairs other aspects of executive function, such as decision-making.”

While there are many ways to counter loneliness, such as redesigning urban architecture to help facilitate social interactions or making it easier for people to own pets, a new study also recommends adding nature into the mix.

The findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, follows a review of assessments provided by more than 750 U.K. residents who volunteered to use a custom-built smartphone app for two weeks. The participants were queried randomly three times a day during waking hours using a technique called an “ecological momentary assessment.” In addition to questions about overcrowding and perceived social inclusion, the volunteers were asked about their natural surroundings: “Can you see trees right now?”; “Can you see plants right now?”; “Can you see or hear birds right now?”; and “Can you see water right now?” Feelings of “momentary loneliness” were then ranked on a five-point scale.

According to the more than 16,600 assessments received, overcrowded environments increased feelings of loneliness by a staggering 38%, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, education level, or occupation. When people were able to interact with green spaces or hear birds or see the sky, however, perceived loneliness dropped by 28%. Social inclusivity, defined by the research team as feeling welcomed by a group or sharing similar values, also dropped loneliness by 21%.

“If loneliness is lessened by contact with nature, improving access to high-quality green and blue spaces (such as parks and rivers) in dense urban areas may help people feel less lonely,” the team writes

These findings appear to correlate with previous research into the mental benefits of walking through natural areas, a phenomenon known as “forest bathing.” A 2020 study published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a forest decreases stress and promotes relaxation.

“Forest bathing is designed to invoke almost every sense: aromatherapy from the plants; the forest sounds of trees rustling, birds chirping, or water rushing; visual stimulation from the flora and fauna; and tactile sensations of the soft soil under your feet or the leaves in your hand,” writes Treehugger’s Maria Marabito. “Combined, these experiences work to deliver a stress-reducing therapy that improves physical health as well as psychological well-being. The forest air is cleaner than urban developments and the trees themselves contain phytoncides, antimicrobial organic compounds derived from plants known for a host of benefits, including boosting immune cells.”

While increased and interwoven sustainability in urban environments is often viewed as a key weapon in the fight against climate change, it’s clear that such measures will also be critical in improving our own well-being and curbing feelings of isolation.

As Johanna Gibbons, a landscape architect and member of the study research team, told the Guardian, cities are likely the only global habitat increasing at a rapid rate. “So we should be creating urban habitats where people can thrive,” she said. “Nature is a critical component of that because, I believe deep in our souls, there are really deep connections with natural forces.”

Technologies adapted from space plant-growing systems further enable these gardens to filter air and reduce the spread of airborne viruses, including coronavirus, underscoring their role in healthier indoor environments .

Title:

Content: Nature invites you to discover the many benefits it offers. Spending time in nature can perk up your mental health, improve your cognition and calm your busy brain. Mounting evidence suggests nature promotes both physical and psychological well-being.

Green spaces — forests, parks, shrubs and tree-studded neighborhoods — play a large part in nature’s design.

“If we had a medicine that delivered as many health benefits as parks, we would all be taking it,” says Dr. Howard Frumkin, senior vice president and director of the Land and People Lab for Trust for Public Land.

Parks are a mental health resource, with studies showing that people who spend regular time in green spaces enjoy lower levels of stress and are less likely to experience anxiety disorders and depression. For young people, parks provide a space to decompress, exercise and hang out.

But not everyone has equal access to the benefits of green spaces.

According to the World Economic Forum people living in more affluent areas have access to more public green spaces. That makes the opposite true; those who live at or below the poverty level often can’t get to a park or green area by walking.

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“In Tacoma, over 51,000 people don’t have access to parks within a 10-minute walk from their homes,” says Mitsu Iwasaki, Northwest director of TPL. Tacoma has the largest park access gap of any big city in Washington.

Iwasaki also says, “Transforming America’s schoolyards into shared public parks is a common-sense, cost-efficient solution to our country’s park equity problem.”

In Tacoma, a plan currently underway has combined the efforts of Tacoma Public Schools, Metro Parks Tacoma and Trust for Public Land to create a Community Schoolyards pilot program. The overarching focus of this program is to convert existing schoolyards into radiant and beautiful neighborhood parks. Students have the opportunity to enjoy the transformations of their play area during school hours and the community has access after school and on weekends. The pilot schools for this program include Helen B. Stafford, Mann, Whitman, Larchmont and Jennie Reed — all elementary schools.

Jennie Reed Elementary, one of the five elementary schoolyards now under construction, had more than its fair share of issues when it came to the lack of nature and green spaces.

“This school is next to an eight-lane freeway and contains the most concrete of any elementary school in Washington,” says Abby Sloan, principal of Jennie Reed. “That contributes to bad air quality.”

“The play structures were purchased in the 1950’s, the grassy field is underwater from November through April and the students had been asking for a new playground for years,” Sloan says.

Students got their say in how their schoolyard was renovated. By including them in the design process, says Sloan, they realized environmental injustices existed in their own backyard.  Students asked for basketball courts, a track that did not flood in the winter and increased accessibility for people with disabilities.

Jennie Reed got a new track, something they didn’t have before. Trees and other vegetation were planted to buffer the noise from the freeway and lessen the air pollution. These additions are particularly meaningful for elementary students, as studies have shown that students who spend time outdoors and in nature have improved academic outcomes when compared to students that lack the same access. Ongoing fundraising for the schoolyards is supported by a mix of public and private funding. As pilot sites, these five Tacoma schoolyards are a test case for increasing access to green space in Washington and community members are encouraged to learn more about how the schoolyards can create access to nature-rich community spaces for students and neighbors.

“Health experts encourage others to use parks, socialize there as a means to alleviate loneliness and improve one’s health,” says Iwasaki.

Beyond their social benefits, parks also help to mitigate the health damages of climate change. Building more green spaces improves air quality, reduces emissions, and reduces the heat experienced in a neighborhood. One study found that areas within a 10-minute walk of a park are as much as 6 degrees cooler than areas beyond that range.

Where we live has a huge impact on our mental and physical health. Communities like Tacoma are showing that many solutions for healthy lives are within our grasp — we just need to build them one park at a time.

Trust for Public Land is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the outdoors. As a leader in equitable access to the outdoors, TPL works with communities to create parks and protect public land where needed most.

The effectiveness of air purification is enhanced by selecting adaptable, pollutant-removing species such as snake plants, peace lilies, and pothos .

Title:

Content: During the winter months, condensation and mould are common problems in Irish homes - but many people may not know that there are some houseplants that can help to deal with it.

Condensation is water beads that form when hot, moist air meets a cool surface. It manifests on windows in the colder months due to warm air from inside the home hitting the cold glass windows.

While it is mostly harmless, if windows aren't maintained, the moisture could develop into dangerous mould that can cause health issues like asthma, eczema and bronchitis.

READ MORE: Rare weather event forecast before big change as Met Eireann issues new warning for all of Ireland

Experts say houseplants are not only good for decorating a room, but can also be great for decreasing humidity in it.

The key is to pick the type of plants that are particularly good for certain areas and don't need constant attention.

How good a plant is at reducing humidity is all to do with its ability to absorb dew, fog and other moisture through its leaves. This moisture then moves down to its roots.

Julie Decosta, plant expert at BackyardBoss, has shared six indoor plants that can help to create a mould-free home, Express reports.

She said: “Choose from one of the wonderful plants to purify your air and get rid of nasty mould and other toxins. Why not grow more than one and group them together to increase your chances of having a mould-free home.”

1. English ivy

When it comes to tackling mould, English ivy is cited as one of the best plants and can be a fairly low-cost leafy addition to your home.

The expert said: “It is a great filter of air toxins and gets rid of 78 percent of airborne mould in twelve hours. This plant helps fight common mould that presents as green and black spots found in moist corners of homes.

“Ivy is also particularly good for allergy sufferers as it removes toxins from the air. This is also a good choice of plant for removing formaldehyde or benzene. It’s one of the most successful varieties at this household task.”

However, the plant's leaves are toxic to animals and so pet owners should be sure to keep the plant out of reach.

Irish ivy, which is normally larger than English ivy, could also be an option. The difference between the plants are that English Ivy has erect hairs on the underside of its leaves, while Irish Ivy has flat hairs.

2. Peace lily

This gorgeous plant is easy to grow and thrives in high humidity areas that have temperatures of between 18Cto 29C.

Julie noted: “The peace lily loves humidity and can easily absorb mould spores by using them at the root level as a food source. It also improves your air quality by 60 percent.

“The plant is exceptional at deteriorating and neutralising toxins like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.”

Similarly to English ivy, this plant has beautiful white flowers but can be toxic to pets so keep it out of their way.

3. Areca palm

Irish holidaymakers may be accustomed to seeing palms swaying in the breeze when abroad, and they can give their homes a touch of the tropics by purchasing one.

Not only will a palm brighten up a room, they are also a great choice when it comes to controlling humidity.

The expert said: “The areca absorbs and releases moisture into the air, so it can help if you live in a dry place with little humidity. More importantly, it rids your air of benzene and turns carbon dioxide into oxygen.”

4. Boston fern

The Boston Fern thrives in moist climates and will naturally absorb the air moisture and balance out humidity levels in your home.

Julie explained: “This plant really does the trick on purifying your air by getting rid of formaldehyde, emitted from paper products and carpets.

“Because this type of fern does well in moist climates, it will naturally absorb some moisture through its leaves and balance out the humidity levels in your home. This means less accumulation of mould.”

5. Spider plant

According to the expert, this houseplant is “easy to grow and hard to kill”, so households don’t need a green thumb to see these plants thrive.

They added: “Spider plants absorb mould in their leaves and they also take care of dust allergens as well as toxins such as carbon monoxide.”

These indoor plants can remove 90 percent of toxins in the air in just two days.

6. Snake plant

Snake plants are relatively easy to look after. Not only do their leaves absorb humidity, but the plant itself is happy enough to be watered once every two weeks, making it a great starting plant for beginners.

During the winter months, plant parents can even get away with watering just once a month if they feel the soil is still moist after two weeks.

Julie said: “These plants produce fresh oxygen and absorb airborne mould by retaining moisture and humidity which keeps the dampness away. Imagine the benefits if you had a cluster of snake plants in your home.”

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Content: Monday, 27 June, 2022, 1:59 AM
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Greener cities are critical to regional sustainability

Published : Monday, 27 June, 2022 at 12:00 AM  Count : 73
SARA AL-MULLA

From megacities to metropolises, cities of all kinds are experiencing an unprecedented spectrum of threats associated with climate change, necessitating a serious debate on the importance of transitioning toward greener cities in order to remain sustainable and resilient.

Currently, those living in urban areas make up just over half the global population. But this figure is projected to increase exponentially to a whopping 68 percent by mid-century, according to the UN. The modern urban landscape poses complex challenges for cities, as they are vulnerable to climate-induced hazards that threaten their economies and infrastructures and the well-being of their residents.

An influential 2018 report titled "The Future We Don't Want" - published by C40 Cities, the Global Covenant of Mayors, Acclimatise and the Urban Climate Change Research Network - revealed the manifold threats that cities are facing and will continue to face in greater intensity as a result of climate change. The report stated that 70 percent of cities are already feeling the wrath of climate change in the form of heat waves, rising sea levels, wildfires, storms and droughts. The fact that 90 percent of urban areas are coastal also poses a significant vulnerability to flooding due to rising sea levels and mass destruction from tsunamis.

By 2050, more than 45 percent of the global urban population is projected to live in cities with extreme summer temperatures of at least 35 degrees Celsius, leaving residents susceptible to dehydration, heatstroke, sleep loss, stress, cardiovascular disease and even death.

Many cities are currently counteracting these challenges, such as the case with Seoul, which implements a number of successful interventions when temperatures reach 33 C for two consecutive days. They include advisories to residents with practical advice and guidance to employers about allowing their outdoor workers to take breaks. The city has also installed shaded cooling centers in public locations, planted 16 million trees and expanded its green space by 3.5 million sq m.

The urgency of addressing climate change in the Middle East and North Africa has never been more critical, with UN experts projecting an urbanization rate of 59 percent by 2030. The region is already fraught with high temperatures, droughts, limited rainfall and scarce agricultural lands, and it is considered among the most water-stressed regions in the world. Climate-induced water scarcity alone is projected to cost MENA countries as much as 6 percent of their gross domestic product by 2050, according to the World Bank.

All of these challenges have important policy implications for city governments on how to balance economic growth while reducing environmental impacts and maximizing population well-being. The International Finance Corporation estimates the climate-centered investment opportunity for the MENA region to be $1.7 trillion.

Many cities have already implemented a vast range of interventions to bolster their resilience and successfully transition into greener cities. Chief among these actions is establishing a dedicated agency to plan, coordinate and manage climate-related strategies across the country. Regular extensive assessments of vulnerabilities and climate-related risks will inform decision-makers on the urgent and critical interventions needed.

Cities should also upgrade their infrastructure to ensure resilience in the face of extreme climate events, such as the flooding of drainage systems. Shifting to climate-smart infrastructure is an important step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving resources. For example, a number of cities are currently relying on renewable energy and solar energy to power large buildings.

Meanwhile, the government of Dubai has issued regulations for "green buildings" that elaborate on a number of climate-friendly solutions, including creating vegetated rooftops, reducing hazardous waste, limiting pollution and improving energy and water efficiency. Many cities are also experimenting with vertical forests, whereby a variety of plant species are grown on buildings, such as the ones in Milan, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Utrecht.

Investing in climate-efficient public transportation and promoting the uptake of hybrid or electric vehicles will offer cleaner alternatives to fuel-reliant vehicles that amplify air pollution. To illustrate, the city of Santiago in Chile invested in electric-powered public buses, which do not generate emissions and cost a remarkable 70 percent less to operate than diesel-fueled buses. In tandem, guidance should be issued to enterprises on how to decarbonize their operations and shift toward electrification and digital solutions.

Launching mass greening and reforestation projects across cities can yield a number of benefits, such as cooling them during summer months and improving biodiversity. This can be done by planting trees to line streets and boulevards and creating gardens, grassy areas, public parks, flowery meadows, miniature urban forests and allotments. For instance, many cities offer allotments for urban farming and recreational gardening projects managed by residents, with an abundance of evidence pointing to improved physical and mental well-being, in addition to the growth of local, seasonal and organic produce.

Additionally, many countries, such as the UAE and Singapore, are capitalizing on vertical farming projects to maximize agricultural yield while relying on climate-friendly solutions to efficiently utilize water and energy.

City governments should also be creative with their public education campaigns to nudge the desired behavioral changes by residents, focusing on recycling, metered consumption and the reduction of wastage. Furthermore, MENA countries should invest in cutting-edge research and innovations related to climate change, which will empower cities to navigate an uncertain future and adjust their climate action plans accordingly.

When imagining the cities of tomorrow, a rather ambitious idea should be explored to include sustainability. By transforming its cities into greener cities, the MENA region can navigate the coming decades with enhanced resilience and competitiveness.
Source: ARAB NEWS

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In terms of **temperature regulation**, vertical gardens moderate both indoor and urban temperatures through plant transpiration, which cools the air, and by providing shade that reduces direct sunlight penetration .

These systems insulate buildings, lowering heating and cooling demands, which not only saves energy but also helps mitigate urban heat island effects and supports climate resilience .

Title:

Content: STOCK MARKET BSE NSE

Delhi: Vertical gardens drain crores, droop

Meanwhile, the RTI response also showed that the Corporation has not conducted any study about whether these gardens help in controlling pollution.

Published: 17th May 2022 08:02 AM  |   Last Updated: 17th May 2022 08:02 AM   |  A+A-

Express News Service

NEW DELHI:  The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has spent over Rs 5 crore from 2017 to 2022 on vertical gardens, the response to a Right to Information (RTI) Act query filed by an advocate revealed. Most of the vertical gardens have now dried up in the absence of due care.

The situation is especially bad in East Delhi. As per the RTI query filed by Siddhartha Malkania, the Municipal Corporation (East) spent more than Rs 1.51 crore on the plantation and management of seven vertical gardens in Shahdara zone, and most of them are in poor state. EMCD also installed a vertical garden for Rs 1.66 crore at a primary school in Mayur Vihar Pocket 4. When the Morning Standard visited this school, the garden was found in bad shape.

Meanwhile, the RTI response also showed that the Corporation has not conducted any study about whether these gardens help in controlling pollution. The Municipal Corporation (North) refused to provide the amount spent on vertical gardens but stated that it has installed 27 of them. “This information is voluminous and is readily not available,” the NDMC said in response.

The Municipal Corporation (South) fared better, with the gardens found in healthier conditions. A total of 10 vertical gardens have been installed by the corporation since 2017, at a cost of more than `2.40 crore. The civic body said that though the life of these vertical gardens has expired, 70 percent greenery still exists.

According to Vikrant Tongad, founder, Social Action for Forest and Environment, these types of gardens are not suitable for Indian weather and instead add to plastic pollution. “We opposed it with strong reasons. The weather in Delhi NCR doesn’t support vertical gardens,” Tongad said. “It is successful in European countries. They look visually appealing here but have no environmental value. The carrier is plastic, which releases more pollutant gases and is carcinogenic.”

Tongad added that people also pilfer the plastic boxes in which the plants are grown. “Many cases of the plants being stolen have been reported. This is wastage of public money,” he said. The Morning Standard tried to get in touch with the EDMC and NDMC officials, but got no response.

South civic body fares better than others
The Municipal Corporation (South) fared better, with the gardens found in healthier conditions. A total of 10 vertical gardens were installed, at a cost of more than Rs 2.40 crore.

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Plant selection tailored to local climate—such as Boston ferns and peace lilies for humid regions or drought-tolerant species for arid zones—optimizes these benefits .

Title:

Content: Spending Time in Green Spaces and Tending to Plants Can Increase your Well-Being
It seems gardeners are happier – and, likely, healthier.
BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine polled people, and found that 55-percent of gardeners said they were satisfied with their life, compared to 39 percent of non-gardeners.
Also, 54-percent of gardeners reported feeling happier the previous day, compared to 45-percent of those who did not garden.
Experts say gardening enthusiasts benefit from getting out into nature.  And if they have a vegetable patch, gain the advantage of potentially eating more healthy foods.
It’s also thought that gardeners gain a sense of purpose, from seeing their carefully nurtured plants flower.
BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine editor, Lucy Hall, says, “The results of our survey demonstrate what we’ve seen anecdotally over the last two years—that gardening and gardens play a vital role in promoting wellbeing and happiness.  Throughout the pandemic, the popularity of gardening and visiting parks and open space rose dramatically as people connected with nature.”

Dig up more, here:  (Daily Mail)

  • A survey from a British gardening magazine finds that 55 percent of gardeners said they were satisfied with their life, compared to 39 percent of non-gardeners
  • They also note that gardeners benefit from getting out into nature, as well as the sense of purpose they likely get from seeing their flowers bloom
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**Mental health impacts** are significant: exposure to greenery in vertical gardens reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances cognitive function, especially in urban areas with limited access to nature .

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Singapore's Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai Illustrates the Vision of Architecture in Nature

Singapore's Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai Illustrates the Vision of Architecture in Nature

The Singapore Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai illustrates the city's aspiration towards a sustainable future that merges architecture, nature, technology and culture. Under the title "Nature.Nurture.Future", the pavilion designed by WOHA Architects and landscape design practice Salad Dressing showcases a sample of Singapore's urban environment that epitomizes its City in Nature vision. The multi-layered green space creates a self-sufficient ecosystem highlighting ideas of sustainability and resilience through the marriage of technology and nature.

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This contribution to Expo Dubai speaks of Singapore's focus on nurturing a sustainable future, showcasing the possibilities of integrating nature within urban environments. Featuring more than 170 varieties of plants from diverse habitats in Singapore and set within different layers of greenery, from hanging gardens to vertical walls, the pavilion creates a tridimensional green space, taking visitors through tropical rainforests, mangrove areas and forest streams. Potable water produced through the on-site solar desalination process is used for drip irrigation, minimizing water consumption.

To carry for the greenery, the pavilion uses three prototype climbing robots that traverse the green walls, inspect the plants' health, and collect e environmental data. Developed by Singapore-based start-up Oceania Robotics, the robots represent a possible solution for maintaining vertical and skyrise gardens, very common in Sin Singapore's contemporary architecture.

Related Article

Grimshaw Architects Designs Sustainability Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai

The pavilion will feature various multimedia experiences depicting environmental challenges and Singapore's approach to tackling them. The program of events features talks exploring the future of cities, digital exhibits, as well as film screenings and light shows. A curated selection of activities will be available online, allowing people unable to travel to the Expo to experience the project virtually.

Debuting on October 1st, Expo 2020 Dubai brings together an array of national contributions, educational institutions and businesses exploring the theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future", with a strong focus on sustainability.

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Cite: Andreea Cutieru. "Singapore's Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai Illustrates the Vision of Architecture in Nature" 29 Sep 2021. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/969262/singapores-pavilion-at-expo-2020-dubai-illustrates-the-vision-of-architecture-in-nature> ISSN 0719-8884

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Studies link indoor plants to lower anxiety and depression rates, and gardening activities foster life satisfaction and a sense of purpose .

Title:

Content: 5 Common Indoor Gardening Challenges And Their Solutions

Saloni Singh
Updated on Jan 22, 2024, 19:36 IST- 5 min read

Indoor gardening is a wonderful way to bring nature into your home and enjoy the benefits of growing plants all year round. However, it comes with its own set of challenges that can sometimes discourage even the most experienced gardeners. In this article, we will explore five common indoor gardening challenges and provide practical solutions to help you overcome them.

The Growing Trend of Indoor Gardening

In recent years, indoor gardening has gained immense popularity among plant enthusiasts. It allows individuals to create a green oasis within the comfort of their homes, regardless of the outdoor climate. However, indoor gardening comes with its own unique challenges that require careful attention and solutions to ensure the thriving growth of your plants.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Challenge 1: Insufficient Light

One of the most common challenges faced by indoor gardeners is the lack of sufficient light. Since natural sunlight is limited indoors, providing adequate light for your plants becomes crucial. Insufficient light can lead to weak growth, leggy stems, and poor flowering.

Solution: To overcome this challenge, you can consider the following solutions:

Place your plants near windows with the brightest light exposure.

Use artificial grow lights, such as fluorescent or LED lights, to supplement the natural light.

Rotate your plants regularly to ensure all sides receive equal light exposure.

Challenge 2: Temperature Control

Maintaining the right temperature for your indoor garden can be a tricky task. Fluctuations in temperature can affect plant growth and overall health. Extreme heat or cold can cause stress and even lead to plant damage.

Solution: Here are some solutions to help you maintain optimal temperature levels:

Identify the temperature requirements of your plants and adjust the indoor environment accordingly.

Use thermostats or temperature-controlled devices to regulate the temperature.

Place plants away from drafts and heating or cooling sources that may cause sudden temperature changes.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Challenge 3: Proper Watering Techniques

Watering plants is a fundamental aspect of gardening, but it can be challenging to strike the right balance. Overwatering or underwatering can have detrimental effects on plant health and growth.

Solution: Follow these guidelines for proper watering:

Learn the specific watering needs of each plant in your indoor garden.

Check the moisture level of the soil before watering.

Provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.

Challenge 4: Pest Infestations

Indoor plants are not immune to pests. Common pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites, can quickly infest your indoor garden if left unchecked. These pests can weaken your plants and hinder their growth.

Solution: Implement the following measures to tackle pest infestations:

Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests.

Use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of pests.

Challenge 5: Limited Space

One of the significant challenges of indoor gardening is dealing with limited space. As your plant collection grows, finding suitable areas to accommodate them becomes increasingly difficult.

Solution: Here are some solutions for optimizing limited space:

Utilize vertical space by hanging plants or using wall-mounted planters.

Choose compact plant varieties or those that can be trained to grow vertically.

Group plants with similar needs together to make the most of available space.

Unsplash/Representational Image

Indoor gardening offers a rewarding experience, but it requires addressing common challenges effectively. By understanding the obstacles like insufficient light, temperature control, proper watering techniques, pest infestations, and limited space, you can create a thriving indoor garden. Implementing the suggested solutions will help you overcome these challenges and enjoy the beauty of nature within your home.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my indoor plants? The watering frequency depends on various factors such as plant type, size, and environmental conditions. It is best to check the moisture level of the soil before watering to ensure it is neither too dry nor waterlogged.

2. Can I use regular household lights for indoor gardening? Regular household lights are not sufficient for promoting healthy plant growth. It is recommended to use specialized grow lights, such as fluorescent or LED lights, to provide adequate light intensity and spectrum for your plants.

3. What are some natural remedies for pest control in indoor gardens? Several natural remedies can help control pests in indoor gardens. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and homemade vinegar sprays are effective in combating common pests. However, always follow the instructions and test them on a small portion of the plant before widespread application.

4. How can I make the most of limited space in my indoor garden? To maximize limited space, consider utilizing vertical space by hanging plants or using wall-mounted planters. Choose compact plant varieties or those that can be trained to grow vertically. Grouping plants with similar needs together can also help optimize space.

5. Can I grow vegetables indoors? Yes, you can grow a variety of vegetables indoors. Leafy greens like lettuce and herbs like basil are well-suited for indoor cultivation. Tomatoes, peppers, and microgreens are also popular choices for indoor vegetable gardening.

In conclusion, indoor gardening comes with its own set of challenges, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can overcome them. By addressing the issues of insufficient light, temperature control, proper watering, pest infestations, and limited space, you can create a thriving indoor garden that brings beauty and serenity to your home. Remember to adapt the solutions to suit your specific plant needs and enjoy the benefits of a flourishing indoor garden.

Title:

Content: NASA Spinoffs Help Fight Coronavirus, Clean Pollution, Grow Food, More

Published: Jan. 24, 2022 at 4:21 PM EST|Updated: 3 hours ago

WASHINGTON, Jan. 24, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA's mission of exploration requires new technologies, software, and research – which show up in daily life. The agency's Spinoff 2022 publication tells the stories of companies, start-ups, and entrepreneurs transforming these innovations into cutting-edge products and services that boost the economy, protect the planet, and save lives.

"The value of NASA is not confined to the cosmos but realized throughout our country – from hundreds of thousands of well-paying jobs to world-leading climate science, understanding the universe and our place within it, to technology transfers that make life easier for folks around the world," NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said. "As we combat the coronavirus pandemic and promote environmental justice and sustainability, NASA technology is essential to address humanity's greatest challenges."

Spinoff 2022 features more than 45 companies using NASA technology to advance manufacturing techniques, detoxify polluted soil, improve weather forecasting, and even clean the air to slow the spread of viruses, including coronavirus.

"NASA's technology portfolio contains many innovations that not only enable exploration but also address challenges and improve life here at home," said Jim Reuter, associate administrator of the agency's Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) in Washington. "We've captured these examples of successful commercialization of NASA technology and research, not only to share the benefits of the space program with the public but to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs."

This year in Spinoff, readers will learn more about:

  • How companies use information from NASA's vertical farm to sustainably grow fresh produce
  • New ways that technology developed for insulation in space keeps people warm in the great outdoors
  • How a system created for growing plants in space now helps improve indoor air quality and reduces the spread of airborne viruses like coronavirus
  • How phase-change materials originally developed to help astronauts wearing spacesuits absorb, hold and release heat help keep race car drivers cool

Other highlights include one of the first robotic commercial lunar landers, developed with NASA mentorship and technology investment, which is slated to deliver NASA science and technology payloads to the Moon in 2022 under the agency's Commercial Lunar Payload Services initiative. The publication also features a grip-strengthening glove based on a robotic astronaut assistant that helps reduce workplace stress injuries, as well as detect-and-avoid systems, flight simulators, and a navigation app that enable remotely piloted aircraft to fill the sky. And it tells the story behind the Space Pen.

"These NASA technologies are not only giving companies and entrepreneurs a competitive edge in their own industries but are also helping to shape budding industries, such as commercial lunar landers," said Daniel Lockney, Technology Transfer program executive at NASA Headquarters in Washington. "NASA is much more than rocket launches and astronauts. We're about improving the quality of life for people all around the world."

The book also features a Spinoffs of Tomorrow section that highlights 20 NASA technologies ripe for commercial application and available for licensing. These include a next-generation biometric identity verification system to unlock phones and computers using heartbeats, a nanomaterial thin-film device that can convert carbon dioxide into fuel, and a self-healing aluminum that can repair cracks and reverse damage in structures such as aircraft, tanks, and fuel lines.

Spinoff is part of the agency's Technology Transfer program within STMD. The program is charged with finding the widest possible applications for NASA technology through partnerships and licensing agreements with industry, ensuring that NASA's investments in its missions and research find additional applications that benefit the nation and the world. The program offers several resources for potential licensees in industry, academia, and beyond, including:

Those interested in licensing NASA technology are encouraged to begin their search by browsing the agency's patent portfolio.

To read or download the digital version of the latest issue of Spinoff, visit:

https://spinoff.nasa.gov/

View original content to download multimedia:

SOURCE NASA

The above press release was provided courtesy of PRNewswire. The views, opinions and statements in the press release are not endorsed by Gray Media Group nor do they necessarily state or reflect those of Gray Media Group, Inc.

These gardens also facilitate social interaction and community engagement, further supporting well-being .

Title:

Content: Africa Has Its First Chief Heat Officer. Five Things Should Be On Her Agenda

24 February 2023
analysis

Freetown's heat officer can set an example to Africa and the world as temperatures and risks rise.

Eugenia Kargbo has an unusual job: she is the city of Freetown's chief heat officer. Her role in Sierra Leone's capital is the first of its kind in Africa. She has been tasked with raising public awareness about extreme heat, improving responses to heat waves, and collecting, analysing and visualising heat impact data for the city, which is home to 1.2 million people.

Freetown is increasingly threatened by dangerous temperatures. In 2017, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change ranked Sierra Leone third, after Bangladesh and Guinea Bissau, on its list of countries most vulnerable to climate change.

The risks are concentrated in its capital and largest city, Freetown, where some 35% of the population live in 74 informal settlements like Kroo Bay, often in disaster-prone areas like the seafront or hillsides. Houses are densely built and typically temporary structures made of "heat trapping" materials. Services that supports cooling, such as water and electricity, are usually inadequate.

As an architect whose work includes researching ways to reduce heat in African cities, I think the creation of an Heat Officer position is a good move. The world's cities are almost all getting hotter and, as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned, temperatures will only keep rising.

But, while this is a global challenge, African cities are unique. The significant proportion of urban dwellers who are poor and those whose living conditions do not provide adequate shelter from the elements make the African context unique and deserving special attention.

With these realities in mind, here are five things I'd suggest should be on the agenda of both Kargbo and any other heat officer appointed elsewhere on the continent in future.

1. Take a diverse approach to urban greening

Nature-based approaches are a great way to address increasing temperatures linked to climate change. Scholars have established positive links between green infrastructure, temperature moderation and even health outcomes in African cities as well as elsewhere in the world.

This has informed a growing number of tree-planting initiatives and the development of urban parks. But it is important that municipalities move beyond only these kinds of spaces. African cities are becoming densely populated; that means less space will be available for greening initiatives on land.

Vertical systems of building (for example on walls, roofs, columns) and urban infrastructure (for example on bridges, road furniture) should be explored to make up for the lack of space on the ground.

In the last few years, I have led the design and development of experimental vertical gardens in low-income areas of Nigeria and Tanzania. We have shown that these vertical gardens reduce wall temperature of residential buildings by as much as 5°C in Dar es Salaam. The gardens have other benefits like providing fresh vegetables for household consumption. Similar ways of growing vegetation vertically have been seen elsewhere in the world, including in Mexico City.

2. Strengthen the link between heat and health

Exposure to extreme heat usually comes with health problems - and can even kill people, as I and many other scholars have documented. It exacerbates underlying health conditions.

One area of concern when it comes to the heat-health nexus in African countries is that mosquito numbers increase in higher temperatures. This means malaria and other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes might become significant problems for Freetown and other African cities.

These health problems are further complicated by the fact that many city dwellers across the continent can't access adequate and affordable health care. Community health initiatives within cities and efforts to ramp up health services in qualitative and quantitative terms must be integral to heat adaptation plans and actions.

3. Focus on early warning and improved awareness

It is far better to be proactive than reactive. Heat vulnerability patterns within Freetown and other African cities must be studied and used to make sense of weather predictions in order to inform warning systems.

In the warning systems, for example, an alert level can be triggered when the weather forecast shows three or more consecutive days with daytime maximum temperature and humidity above a threshold of, say, 30°C. Other levels of alerts can correspond with higher temperatures. This sort of system has been implemented in Toronto, Canada, with good outcomes. A recent study of urban areas in Ontario (the province where Toronto is located) shows that early warnings may have meant fewer heat-related illnesses severe enough to warrant hospital or clinic visits.

4. Encourage the transfer of knowledge

Cities can adapt to heat faster when they share knowledge and experiences. Some scholars argue that inter-city collaboration and knowledge-sharing can enhance municipalities' resilience and improve urban residents' skills to deal with heat-related issues.

Kargbo's work will generate many lessons that can be shared with other African cities; she, too, will learn from other cities' successes and failures.

5. Let locals lead

While there is plenty to learn from more developed countries outside Africa, it is important to also draw from local indigenous knowledge and practices. An examination of knowledge and awareness about climate-related and environmental problems in African traditional society shows there is much to be learned from indigenous systems.

Top-down approaches are not enough. They must be complemented by bottom-up approaches in the planning, funding, execution and assessment of heat adaptation initiatives.

Inclusion is also important because it shifts power to those who are most affected by heat - people living in low-income and informal areas are disproportionately affected. Involving them enhances the impacts of initiatives and interventions.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Olumuyiwa Adegun is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Architecture, Federal University of Technology, Akure.

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Title:

Content: HealthOther News

Plants that clean the air in the house within 8 hours

SHAFAQNA SCIENCE- Scientists at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in Australia, who investigated whether a vertical wall system fitted with indoor plants could mop up a mix of harmful compounds found in petrol vapors.

“Not only can plants remove the majority of pollutants from the air in a matter of hours,” says UTS environmental scientists, “they remove the most harmful petrol-related pollutants from the air most efficiently.”

They tested the Ambius vertical plant wall system using nine purpose-built perspex boxes containing four plants or none at all. A small volume of petrol was vaporized inside the chambers, and researchers measured the gas levels.

Source: sciencealert

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**Maintenance needs** include regular watering, pruning, and pest monitoring, with requirements varying by plant species and climate .

Title:

Content: Planting, Watering and Healing: Surprising Health Benefits of Indoor Plants

The grass isn't always greener. Since the early 80's, scientists have studied the biophilia hypothesis – that seeing plants is beneficial to our physical and mental health. With increased urbanization, exacerbated by lockdowns due to a global pandemic, it's becoming harder and harder to ‘go out and get some air.'

The indoor plant market, already spiking in 2019, continues to surge – expected to grow exponentially in the coming years.

A study released by Data Bridge Market Research estimates the indoor plant market will reach $26.23 billion by 2029. The physical and mental health benefits of succulents and other indoor houseplants are important factors.

Many people may be surprised to discover the lesser-known benefits of indoor gardens, but experienced horticulturalists and gardeners have been advocating for the expansion of home gardens for decades.

Stress and Anxiety Reduction

The addition of real or artificial indoor plants has become a standard practice in many offices, hospitals, schools, and other institutions. According to researchers, just seeing a living plant in the otherwise sterile hospital waiting room environment has been shown to reduce stress levels.

In another study, subjects were asked to repot a living plant or complete a computer-generated task. Those who handled the plants reported feeling more at ease and also experienced lower blood pressure. Participants who performed the computer-based task reported higher levels of anxiety and elevated blood pressure.

Maria Failla, Garden Expert and host of the Growing Joy with Plants podcast, shares, “When I was struggling with depression, it was helpful for me to keep plants indoors that helped me get out of my head and drop into the present. I'd see how many senses I could engage while taking 3 mindful breaths alongside my plants. Scented plants like herbs and geraniums are amazing for this. I love the rose-scented geranium for its romantic scent and the fuzzy leaves I could rub, pinch and take deep inhales with.”

Speed Up The Healing Process

A number of indoor houseplants, such as snake plants, orchids, and spider plants, have natural air purification qualities. Others improve a room’s humidity level or deliver a soothing fragrance. Microgreens also provide essential nutrients, making them ideal for patients in recovery.

Even seeing an indoor houseplant can improve a recovering patient’s mental and emotional state. One study concluded that installing indoor gardens in hospital rooms and public areas positively impacted overall recovery times and patient satisfaction.

Improve Mood During Isolation

The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent household quarantines created a spike in indoor plant sales as many consumers discovered the natural air purification benefits of succulents and other plant species. Indoor gardening also provided isolated households with an activity that could be performed safely while under quarantine.

A study conducted in Bulgaria concluded that participants who maintained a home garden or raised houseplants had fewer incidents of anxiety or depression during enforced lockdowns than others who did not invest in plants or other greenery.

Cassidy Tuttle, gardening expert and owner of Succulents and Sunshine, observes, “Succulents are great plants for people who have depression. They don't require as much work as other plants, so they can tolerate the ups and downs that frequently come with depression. They stay looking healthy even if they're not watered regularly. Haworthiopsis fasciata, Zebra Plant, is an especially good option for indoor plants because it doesn't require a lot of light or water.”

Best Entry-Level Houseplants For Starting Indoor Gardens

Annie Schreck, Research Director at Mountain Crest Gardens, offers some insights and recommendations for beginners. “At Mountain Crest Gardens, we hear back from customers all the time that filling their homes and offices with succulents brightens their mood every day. The studies I have seen in this realm indicate that having plants around can correlate with improved student performance in classrooms and reductions in stress and sick days in workplaces. I certainly hope more researchers investigate these complex human-plant interactions.

Schreck adds, “There’s something about having other living creatures in a room that makes it feel cozy and inviting. Caring for them and seeing them respond is just so rewarding. And the great thing is, everyone gets to explore which varieties lift their mood the most! If you’re not sure where to start, I’d recommend indoor succulents like Haworthia, Jade plants, and Gasteria.”

Snake Plants

Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata)—also known as mother-in-law’s tongue— are thick-leaved succulents prized for their resilience and tolerance for drought. They grow well under low-light conditions, which makes them ideal for indoor gardens and room decor.

One major health benefit of snake plants is natural air purification. This goes beyond the standard absorption of carbon dioxide, however. Snake plants also remove and filter toxic gases such as benzene, xylene, and formaldehyde. They are also said to reduce headaches, improve respiration, and reduce eye irritations.

Microgreens

Microgreens such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale offer a wide range of health benefits, and their compact size makes them ideal for indoor gardens, especially hydroponics. Microgreens and fresh herbs provide home gardeners with flavorful aromatics and salad ingredients.

Among the many health benefits associated with microgreens are blood sugar regulation, vision protection, body weight reduction, and protection from anemia. Growing microgreens is also a highly recommended activity for those recovering from substance abuse since the plants provide the nutrition many addicts lack.

Orchids

While some orchid varieties have earned a reputation for being a challenge to grow, there are many varieties that require only minimal to moderate care. Besides their exceptional qualities as flowering plants, orchids are also natural air purifiers and oxygen generators. As part of a floral arrangement or as individual blooms, orchids have been shown in studies to reduce stress and improve mood.

Orchids are also recommended for people with sleep issues since the plant’s significant oxygen generation and aesthetic qualities both help create more soothing conditions at bedtime and during overnight hours.

Spider Plants

Spider plants have become popular houseplants for first-time home gardeners because of their child and pet-friendliness, ease of propagation, and exceptional air-purifying qualities. Beginning gardeners only need a small cutting from an existing spider plant to start their own projects.

The trailing leaves of a spider plant make it ideal for hanging baskets, a popular growing technique for limited spaces. The plant also raises the room’s humidity level, which helps address respiratory issues triggered by dry air conditions.

Peperomia Plants

 Because of their ability to thrive in drafty, dark, and humid locations in the home, peperomia plants are often referred to as “radiator plants”.  Peperomia plants are succulents, which means they are naturally resilient to abuse and require minimal maintenance.

Tinctures and other products derived from peperomia plants are used to address a range of medical ailments, including headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney issues. The plant also has antifungal and antioxidant properties.

Jade Plants

Another popular succulent for indoor gardens is the ornamental and medicinal jade plant. The jade plant’s distinctive round leaves have become associated symbolically with the acquisition of money and wealth. The jade plant’s appeal goes beyond the ornamental, however.

Products derived from the juice of the jade plant have been used in many cultures for the treatment of ailments including diabetes, skin wounds, digestive issues, and warts. In traditional Chinese culture, the presence of a jade plant also improves the flow of chi, or life force.

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.