Like people, houseplants must be regularly cared for to ensure their health. Dusting their leaves is a surprisingly overlooked aspect of plant care.
While regular dusting in our homes is a given, many don’t realize the effects of not cleaning houseplant leaves. Let’s uncover why dust-free houseplants are key to keeping your green friends healthy and content.
Dust Particles Impact Indoor Air Quality
Accumulating dust does more than just annoy; it can be harmful. Dust can harm both your health and the vitality of your houseplants. Research has demonstrated that dust is comprised of harmful particles that can cause allergies, asthma, and other health disorders.
Dust accumulation on leaves can block the essential light plants need for photosynthesis, depriving them of the ability to produce oxygen. This situation may lead to compromised air quality in your home, which endangers your health. If you haven’t been able to regularly dust your houseplants, that’s understandable, yet it remains critical for keeping both you and your plants healthy.
Prevent More Significant Issues
Just as you clean your furniture, keeping your plants dust-free holds equal importance. A clean home isn’t just about tidiness; it’s also about spotting potential problems like mold or disease sooner.
By regularly dusting your plants, you not only keep them clean but also get to closely inspect them. Engaging in this care helps keep your plants in robust health and flourishing condition. Detecting problems early enables you to promptly address them, preserving the well-being and happiness of your plants.
Keep Pests Away from Plants
Occasionally, if not adequately maintained, these small green companions may attract bugs and pests. But rest easy; a few basic precautions can keep the pests away. A gentle wipe down of the leaves with a soft cloth can remove dust and debris, for instance. Also, be alert for signs of infestation such as yellowing leaves or sticky residue.
By meeting your plants’ basic requirements for sunlight and nutrition, you can stave off significant pest issues. So, don’t hold back in giving your plants the love and attention they need!
How to Dust and Clean Houseplants
Realizing that your houseplants need a thorough dusting makes the cleaning process straightforward. Start with a dusting wand or microfiber cloth to gently clear the dust from each leaf for most plants. A small paintbrush is ideal for carefully removing dust from plants with delicate or small leaves.
Wipe your houseplant’s stems and leaves with a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water. Ensure the water isn’t too hot or cold to prevent damaging your houseplant. Ensure your plant is fully air-dried after cleaning each leaf and the pot before placing it back.
While not complex, houseplant care should be regular to maintain their health and verdant appearance. Want to learn more about this or other Brookfield home maintenance topics? Real Property Management Greater Milwaukee can help! Contact us today online or call us at 262-309-6961.
Originally Published on February 26, 2021
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