How Much Oxygen Does Monstera Deliciosa Plant Produce?

Introduction

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular houseplant that not only adds aesthetic appeal to your indoor space but also offers several health benefits. One of the key benefits associated with this plant is its ability to produce oxygen. In this article, we will explore how much oxygen Monstera deliciosa plants produce and why it can be beneficial to have them in your home.

The Oxygen Production Process

Like all plants, Monstera deliciosa undergoes a process called photosynthesis to produce oxygen. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, while also releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

During photosynthesis, Monstera deliciosa absorbs carbon dioxide from the air through tiny openings on its leaves called stomata. These stomata allow carbon dioxide to enter the plant while also enabling water vapor and oxygen to exit. Inside the plant’s cells, chlorophyll captures sunlight and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Factors Affecting Oxygen Production

While Monstera deliciosa plants are capable of producing oxygen, the rate at which they do so can vary depending on several factors. Here are some factors that affect oxygen production in Monstera deliciosa plants:

Light Intensity

Light intensity plays a crucial role in photosynthesis and consequently affects the amount of oxygen produced by Monstera deliciosa plants. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light. When exposed to optimal light conditions, their photosynthetic rate increases, leading to higher oxygen production.

Temperature

Temperature also plays a significant role in the photosynthetic process. Monstera deliciosa plants prefer temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). When exposed to temperatures outside this range, the plant’s metabolic rate may slow down, affecting oxygen production. Extreme temperatures can even cause damage to the plant’s cells and reduce its ability to photosynthesize.

Carbon Dioxide Levels

Carbon dioxide is an essential component in the photosynthetic process. Higher levels of carbon dioxide can increase the rate of photosynthesis, leading to increased oxygen production. However, Monstera deliciosa plants can still carry out photosynthesis even at lower carbon dioxide concentrations found indoors.

Humidity

Monstera deliciosa plants prefer higher humidity levels, similar to their natural tropical environment. When exposed to low humidity, the plant may experience stress and reduced photosynthetic activity, ultimately affecting oxygen production. Maintaining adequate humidity levels in your home can help optimize oxygen production by these plants.

Oxygen Production Rate

While it is challenging to provide an exact measurement of how much oxygen a Monstera deliciosa plant produces, studies have shown that indoor plants, including Monstera deliciosa, contribute to increasing oxygen levels in enclosed spaces.

According to a study conducted by NASA in collaboration with the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), indoor plants can remove toxins from the air and increase oxygen levels. Although the study did not specifically focus on Monstera deliciosa, it highlighted that all plants contribute to improving air quality and increasing oxygen production.

The rate of oxygen production by Monstera deliciosa and other indoor plants depends on several factors, including the size of the plant, its age, and environmental conditions. However, it is important to note that the amount of oxygen produced by indoor plants is relatively small compared to the total oxygen concentration in a room.

Benefits of Having Monstera Deliciosa Plants

While Monstera deliciosa may not single-handedly significantly increase the overall oxygen levels in a room, having these plants in your home can still offer several benefits:

Air Purification

Monstera deliciosa plants, like other indoor plants, help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. These harmful substances can be found in common household products and can negatively impact air quality. By absorbing these toxins, Monstera deliciosa plants contribute to creating a healthier indoor environment.

Aesthetics and Stress Reduction

The lush foliage of Monstera deliciosa plants adds beauty and greenery to any space. Studies have shown that being surrounded by nature, even indoors, can reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calmness and relaxation. Having Monstera deliciosa plants in your home can contribute to creating a soothing atmosphere.

Increased Humidity

As mentioned earlier, Monstera deliciosa plants prefer higher humidity levels. By transpiring water through their leaves, these plants can increase the humidity in the surrounding air. This can be particularly beneficial in dry indoor environments or during winter months when heating systems tend to dry out the air.

Conclusion

While it may be difficult to quantify the exact amount of oxygen produced by Monstera deliciosa plants, their presence in your home can still contribute to improving air quality and providing several health benefits. These plants not only add visual appeal but also help purify the air, increase humidity, and create a calming atmosphere. So, consider adding a Monstera deliciosa plant to your indoor space and enjoy the benefits it brings.