How to clean your houseplants

Happy houseplants are clean houseplants. Just like us, plants need to breathe. Photosynthesis, gaseous exchange and other day-to-day functions are optimal when leaves are clean, not to mention that they look a whole lot better, too.

Learning how to clean and maintain houseplants is simple and can be done with items you probably have lying around.

Also see: Best houseplants for beginners: easy, low-maintenance picks

Reasons for cleaning houseplants

1. New houseplants are dusty: after purchasing a new plant from the nursery or flower shop, the leaves usually have a layer of dust or grime due to pesticide spraying, foliage cleaners, condensation from dripping irrigation systems, and contact with hard water.
2. Plants need to respire to thrive: A heavy build-up of dust or grime will impede the plant’s ability to breathe, and block sunlight and the ability to absorb water.
3. Clear and prevent pest infestations: Sucking insects like mealybugs, scale, aphids and whiteflies secrete sticky substances that stain leaves. It is important to wipe these residues off and clean any possible eggs or pests.

How to clean houseplants

 What you’ll need:

• Spray bottle, large bowl or large bucket filled with warm water
• Soft cloth or soft-bristle brush
• DIY cleaner: 3 drops dish detergent + 1/4 cup white vinegar + 8 cups warm water

1. Misting and wiping

This method is best used for various houseplants that are in need of a regular, quick clean. For larger plants, consider moving them outside and spraying them down with a hosepipe.

1. Place small to medium houseplants in the sink, or work outside. Mist the leaves with lukewarm water.
2. Dip the cloth or soft-bristle brush (great for hardy plants like cacti) into the DIY cleaner and gently wipe or brush the leaves.
3. Spray heavily with clean, warm water to rinse off the DIY cleaner and any remaining dust, pests or grime.
4. Dry off the pot and place the houseplant back in its usual spot.

2. Dunking and wiping

The dunking method is best suited for plants that are very dusty or grimy, or heavily infested with pests.

1. Gently submerge small to medium plants in a bucket filled with warm water. Ensuring the leaves and stems are submerged, leave the plant submerged for a few minutes.
2. Slowly remove the plant from the bucket and place it to one side. Dip the cloth or soft-bristle brush into the DIY cleaner and gently wipe or brush the leaves and any other infested areas. Repeat where necessary.
3. Use the spray bottle to finally rinse the plant of the cleaner, misting it heavily and leaving it to dry before placing it back in its spot.

Also see: A beginner’s guide to hanging your plants with ease

Tips for success

• Do not place your plants in the sun after cleaning them – they could burn
• Refrain from using commercial cleaners, like leaf shining products. These may contain additives that can clog the pores of leaves, preventing them from respiring.
•  Don’t use cleaners on plants with hairy leaves, like African Violets and Gloxinias – dusting with a feather duster or soft cloth is best
• Clean your plants during the day, not at night – this is their time for rest and repair

Compiled by Annemieke van Nieuwkerk 

First published on Food and Home