Tyler Brooks
Candles are a popular addition to many homes, adding warmth, fragrance, and ambiance to any room. However, if you're a plant enthusiast, you may be concerned about the potential impact of candles on your greenery. The main worry is whether the smoke, soot, or chemicals released by candles could harm plants. The short answer is yes—some candles, particularly cheaper ones, can release harmful toxins such as benzene and toluene, which can interfere with photosynthesis, slow plant growth, and damage leaves. Synthetic fragrances in scented candles can also contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may disrupt a plant's ability to process nutrients and water. Therefore, it's essential to choose candles made with natural ingredients, scented with pure essential oils, and featuring lead-free wicks to minimize any potential harm to your plants.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Heat | Can damage or dry out leaves and flowers |
| Smoke | Can harm the respiratory system of plants |
| Scented candles | Can interfere with the plant's natural scent |
| Fire hazard | Leaving candles unattended or placing them too close to flammable items poses a fire hazard |
| Toxins | Candles can release toxins such as benzene and toluene, which are harmful to plants |
| Synthetic fragrances | Can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that disrupt the plant's ability to process nutrients and water |
| Lead-coated wicks | Can release toxic fumes |
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What You'll Learn
Toxic chemicals in candles
Candles can be made from a variety of materials, and some of these can release harmful chemicals. Paraffin wax, for example, is a common ingredient in traditional candles. It is derived from petroleum and releases toxins such as benzene and toluene when burned, which are harmful to both plants and humans. Benzene is a known carcinogen, and toluene can adversely affect the central nervous system. In addition, the soot from paraffin candles contains large amounts of microparticles, which are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.
Some scented candles may also contain synthetic fragrances, which can include volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs can cause headaches, eye and throat irritation, nausea, and damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys. These chemicals can also negatively impact plants, interfering with their ability to process nutrients and water, slowing growth, and causing leaf damage.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to opt for candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax. These burn more cleanly and produce far fewer microparticles. Natural fragrances derived from essential oils are also preferable to synthetic scents. It is also important to choose candles with wicks made from natural materials like cotton or wood, as some wicks may contain lead or other metals that can release toxic fumes.
Overall, while candles can add ambiance and fragrance to a room, it is important to be mindful of the potential toxins they may release. Choosing candles made from natural ingredients and burning them in moderation can help limit any negative impacts on both human and plant health.
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Heat damage to plants
Heat damage can have a significant impact on plants, affecting their growth, health, and even causing their death. While some plants can recover from heat stress, others may suffer permanent damage or even perish.
Heat damage can cause plants to wilt, a condition where low moisture in the plant results in a lack of water pressure. Wilting is typically observed in nonwoody annuals and perennials, and the chances of recovery decrease the longer the plant remains in this state. Some plants may also experience leaf rolling or cupping to reduce moisture loss, and the outer margins of leaves may dry up as a survival mechanism.
High temperatures can interfere with a plant's ability to photosynthesize, as the stomata (microscopic openings in leaves) close, reducing the plant's ability to take in carbon dioxide. This can stunt growth and decrease yield. Additionally, extreme heat can damage proteins and impair enzyme function, affecting metabolic processes.
Heat stress can also induce "bolting," or premature flowering, in plants like lettuce, broccoli, spinach, and cilantro. This process can be fatal for these crops. Heat damage can also cause sunscald, resulting in discolouration, watery spots, blisters, or firm, sunken patches on fruits like apples, tomatoes, and melons.
To prevent heat damage, it is crucial to provide shade and adequate water to plants. Temporary covers or shade cloths can be used to protect plants from direct sunlight during heatwaves. Potted plants should be moved to shaded areas, and reflective heat from hard surfaces like paving or metal fences should be minimised to avoid damaging low-growing plants. Proper irrigation practices, such as precision irrigation early in the morning or in the evening, can help alleviate heat stress by keeping the soil moist.
During periods of intense heat, it is advisable to postpone fertilisation and avoid inducing new growth, as stressed plants are more susceptible to damage from treatments and pests.
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Smoke and soot inhalation
The main concern with burning scented candles around plants is whether the smoke, soot, or chemicals released could negatively affect plant health. The answer is yes—some scented candles can release harmful chemicals into the air, which can have adverse effects on plants. For example, cheaper candles may contain benzene, a common solvent found in oils and paints that has been linked to cancer. Candles derived from paraffin wax, which is common, can release toxins such as benzene and toluene when burned, which are harmful to both plants and humans. These toxins can interfere with photosynthesis, slow plant growth, and even damage plant leaves.
However, it is important to note that not all candles are harmful to plants. To minimise the negative impact of candles on plants, it is recommended to choose candles scented with pure essential oils derived from natural plant materials. Candles with lead-free wicks, such as cotton or wood wicks, are also preferable as candles with lead wicks can release toxic fumes. Burning candles in moderation and ensuring the area is well-ventilated can further reduce the buildup of smoke and chemicals.
While smoke from candles can negatively impact plants, smoke from wildfires can have both positive and negative effects. The increase in carbon dioxide from wildfires can benefit plants by providing them with more carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, resulting in increased food production. However, smoke particles can also coat plants, inhibiting photosynthesis by clogging stomatal pores and reducing gas exchange. Therefore, it is recommended to clean both sides of the leaves of plants exposed to smoke to mitigate any potential harm.
Smoke inhalation can also have adverse effects on humans and other living beings. Smoke is composed of noxious gases, airborne solid particles, and airborne liquid particles, which can irritate and obstruct the airways, leading to severe lung injury. Particulate matter, such as soot, produced during combustion can mechanically obstruct and irritate the airways, causing reflex bronchoconstriction. Additionally, noxious gases released during combustion, such as carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen cyanide (CN), can be extremely harmful.
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Synthetic fragrances
The main concern with burning candles with synthetic fragrances around plants is whether the smoke, soot, or chemicals could negatively affect plant health. Many scented candles use synthetic fragrances, which can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs, when inhaled by plants, can disrupt their ability to process nutrients and water, negatively impacting their overall health.
Additionally, the EPA has linked VOCs in synthetic fragrances to cancer, headaches, skin or eye irritation, and exacerbation of asthma and other lung conditions. They can also trigger or intensify allergies, headaches, and cardiovascular diseases in sensitive organisms. In worse cases, fragrance chemicals can interfere with the neuroendocrine-immune axis, promoting cancer and developmental problems.
To avoid the potentially harmful effects of synthetic fragrances, choose candles scented with pure essential oils, which are derived from natural plant materials and offer therapeutic benefits. Opt for products that explicitly state they use essential oils or natural plant extracts, and choose trusted and smaller brands that prioritize transparency and natural ingredients.
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Fire hazards
Candles are a potential fire hazard if not carefully monitored. The National Fire Protection Association reports that half of all candle fires start when a flammable piece of décor, such as furniture, mattresses, bedding, curtains, home decorations, paper, or clothing, is placed too close to the lit candle. In 21% of home candle fires, candles were left unattended, misused, or discarded. A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests that 85% of candle fires could be avoided if consumers followed three basic safety rules: never leave a burning candle unattended, never burn a candle on or near anything that might catch fire, and keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
To ensure fire safety when burning candles, it is important to keep them away from flammable objects, such as furniture, drapes, bedding, carpets, books, paper, and decorations. Place burning candles at least 12 inches apart from one another and discontinue burning when 1/2 inch of wax remains in the container or 2 inches if using a pillar candle. Blow out candles when you leave a room or go to bed, and do not burn them in bedrooms, bathrooms, or sleeping areas.
It is also important to use candles safely during a power outage. Instead of using a candle, consider using a flashlight or battery-powered light. Never use a candle to look for things in a closet or when fueling equipment, such as a lantern or kerosene heater. Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle, as it is the safest way to prevent hot wax from splattering. Never use water to extinguish a candle, as it can cause the hot wax to splatter and possibly break a glass container. Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.
To reduce the risk of fire, consider using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look, smell, and feel like real candles. These candles are a safer alternative to lit candles and can provide the same ambiance and fragrance without the potential fire hazard.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, candles can affect plants in several ways. The heat from candles can dry out or damage leaves and flowers, especially those with delicate foliage. Smoke from candles can also harm plants' respiratory systems and cause further damage.
Candles made from paraffin wax, a by-product of the petroleum industry, release toxins such as benzene and toluene, which are harmful to plants and humans. In addition, scented candles with synthetic fragrances can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that interfere with plants' ability to process nutrients and water.
Yes, there are some candles that are safer to burn around plants. Opt for candles made from natural vegetable waxes like coconut wax or beeswax, scented with pure essential oils, and featuring cotton or wood wicks. Even with these natural candles, it's important to burn them in moderation and ensure the area is well-ventilated.
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