Houseplants require much more than just watering and sunlight to flourish, as experts have explained that they should also be dusted every few weeks – here’s how to do it
While many of us are clued-up on the right lighting and watering for our houseplants, we often overlook the task of cleaning their leaves. Yet giving your indoor greenery a good clean is crucial as dust accumulation can hinder their ability to photosynthesise.
Alex Rorrison-Leech, a cleaning guru from Marigold, shared with the Express: “While cleaning houseplants might not seem like a necessity, it is one of the most important jobs when taking care of indoor plants and giving them the best chance to flourish. Houseplants gather dust very easily and should be cleaned regularly to promote healthy growth. This will allow them to absorb more light to convert into energy, breathe better and look their best.”
He also warned: “Dust and grime on your plants can also attract and provide a haven for pests like spider mites and thrips, so keeping them clean is also key to preventing infestations.”
For those looking to spruce up their leafy companions without breaking the bank, there are plenty of budget-friendly microfibre cloths available, including Marigold’s own version at just £1 per cloth.
To get started, simply take a dry microfibre cloth and gently wipe off any dust that has settled on the foliage
Rorrison-Leech pointed out: “Using a dry cloth is effective for removing surface dust, as the static charge of the tiny microfibres will attract and trap dust.”
He added: “These cloths are super soft, so they are great for handling delicate leaves to avoid ripping or damaging them, and are low linting, meaning they won’t shed any fibres or lint particles on your plant’s leaves.”
Next, moisten your cloth with tepid water and meticulously go over the plant for a second time.
The water will ensnare any remaining dust particles and, according to the expert, will also prevent the dust from settling on your plant.
Alex added: “Avoid using any household cleaning products when cleaning your houseplants, as the harsh chemicals can clog the pores of the leaves, hindering respiration and potentially harming your plant.
“It’s also important to avoid using hot or cold water as both can potentially damage the leaves’ tissue, so opt for lukewarm water instead. Be mindful not to drench the leaves with too much water because many plants don’t tolerate excessive water. Just dampening your cloth slightly will be enough to pick up the dust.”