Maintaining thriving houseplants involves more than just providing water and sunlight. They also require a bit of TLC – tender loving cleaning. By eliminating dust and dirt from their leaves, you’re creating a conducive environment for the optimal health of your indoor greenery.
Reasons to Clean Houseplants
Plants rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, the vital metabolic process that sustains their life. Layers of dust and grime on leaves obstruct the amount of light they receive. A soiled leaf surface not only serves as a convenient foothold for diseases but can also provide hiding spots for insects.
Cleaning leaves goes beyond mere aesthetics; it directly contributes to the well-being of your plants and serves as a preventive measure against pests and diseases.
How to Clean Houseplants
For smooth leaves:
Gently dust the plants with a disposable electrostatic or reusable microfiber cloth. Subsequently, wipe both sides of the leaves with a soft cloth dampened in lukewarm water.
To tackle stubborn dirt, prepare a solution of approximately ¼ teaspoon of dish detergent in 1 quart of lukewarm water. Spray the plant and then rinse it off. It is advisable to do this outdoors in the shade or on a cloudy day. For larger indoor plants, position them in the shower, elevated on a stool for easy rotation to clean all sides.
Invert small plants and swish them in a bucket of lukewarm water (adding soap if necessary). Prevent soil spillage by covering the soil with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
For a glossy finish on leaves, consider using a professional leaf shine product.
For hairy leaves:
Refrain from using water on hairy leaves, as it may cause spotting.
Utilize a soft brush or canned compressed air to remove dirt.
Cacti can be cleaned using compressed air to blow away dirt.
When to Clean Houseplants
The frequency of cleaning your plants depends on the dust levels in your home. A quick glance or a swipe of your finger can help you determine when your houseplants need cleaning. If you can visibly see or feel the dust, it’s likely time for a cleaning session.
In colder regions where outdoor rinsing isn’t feasible year-round, consider giving your plants an annual outdoor shower during warm weather, particularly if they’ve spent the summer outdoors.
Inspecting Houseplants
While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect your plants for potential issues. Follow this routine for a comprehensive inspection:
Examine the leaves.
Turn leaves over to check for insects that might be hiding beneath. Look closely for any signs of bugs. Keep an eye out for discolored areas, as many diseases manifest as spots on leaves.
Check where the leaves attach to stems.
This cozy spot is a favorite hiding place for insects. Additionally, inspect for webbing, a common sign of Spider Mites.
Scrutinize the stems.
Ensure that the stems are sturdy and display the correct color. For woody plants, verify that the bark is intact on the stems.
Inspect the soil.
Since many insects spend part of their lifecycle in the soil, examine the soil surface. Fuzzy white substance may indicate mold, while crystalline deposits could suggest soluble salt buildup. Gently remove either, adjust watering accordingly, and reduce watering frequency if mold is present. Leach the soil if salts are detected.