Regular cleaning of leaves returns plants not only to their aesthetic appeal, but also to their vital functions. Clean leaf blades provide unobstructed access to sunlight necessary for photosynthesis. The plant more actively absorbs carbon dioxide and produces oxygen, improving the microclimate in the entire room, writes the author of the Zen channel “Flower Jam” (16+).
For cleaning dense, glossy leaves such as ficus or monstera, a soft microfiber or flannel cloth is best. It should be slightly moistened with warm, clean water, after which, carefully supporting the sheet with one hand, wipe it with the other from base to tip.
This method effectively removes dust without damaging the waxy protective layer on the surface of the sheet.
Plants with hairy or velvety leaves, such as violets or gloxinias, should not be wiped with a cloth. For them, it is better to use a soft cosmetic brush or a small wide paint brush, which is used to carefully brush off the dust. Heavy dirt can be removed with a gentle stream of cool air from a hair dryer.
Once a month, it is useful to give the plants a warm, hygienic shower, after covering the soil in the pot with polyethylene. The flow of water washes away dust from hard-to-reach places and leaf axils, where pests often hide. After a shower, the plant is left in the bathroom to allow the water to completely drain and dry naturally.
Moisture-loving plants can be bathed more often – twice a month, others less often. It is useful to pre-spray the leaves for 10 minutes with a solution of laundry soap. Large leaves can be wiped with a soapy sponge.
