Do you know the best way to clean your houseplants?
Plants sustain themselves through photosynthesis, a process in which
the leaves absorb sunlight and carbon dioxide to make food. However,
plants have a difficult time doing so if their leaves are covered
with dust and other airborne particles, and they really benefit from
regular monthly cleanings. hiny-leaved plants are easily cleaned.
Simply moisten a soft cloth with lukewarm water and wipe both sides
of every leaf. SAs you work, support each leaf with your free hand.
You can also wash leaves by misting with a
pump sprayer or you can set them in the shower under a fine spray. As you
clean, check for pests, which can sometimes be removed with a healthy
spritz of water.
Cacti, with their sharp spikes, are a bit trickier to maintain. Many cacti
also have a waxy coating that helps the plant conserve moisture in desert
climates. If water gets on that coating, it can act as a magnifier, and
that magnifier can sun-scorch the leaf. To protect this natural waxy
defense, use long tweezers and carefully pick off any stray particles of
dust or dirt. Fuzzy-leaved succulents are also sensitive to being touched.
The fuzziness protects the plant in arid conditions and washing can be
hazardous to the leaves. Instead, use a soft paintbrush and very gently
dust off each leaf.
