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Home DIY: How to keep the leaves of indoor plants looking lush and green

This solution is easy to make and use, and will keep your plants looking fresh and vibrant

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By Edwain Steenkamp  | September 10, 2023 | Diy

Ever notice your leafy green house plants losing their wow-factor? Over time, with dust and other fibres, leaves can look lacklustre and dull. Fear not! This easy to make cleaning solution is safe to use on most house plants, and will keep them looking fresh and vibrant all year round.

Image: Annie Spratt via Unplash

Clean leaves are not only about looks

While shiny clean leaves look good, it’s not only about aesthetics. Plants use their leaves to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis, and when dust and grime accumulate on them, it can hinder this process. Regular cleaning promotes healthy plant function and growth.

Easy cleaning solution

Water: Distilled or tap water

Mild liquid soap: Just a few drops of mild and gentle liquid soap (one or two drops should do the trick, as you don’t want the solution to be too harsh on the plants).

Spray bottle: A clean spray bottle. You’ll add the water in the bottle, a few drops of the liquid soap, and then mix thoroughly.

Soft cloth or sponge: A soft, lint-free cloth or sponge, which you will use to wipe up the cleaning solution, along with the dust and grime.

Remember!

Do a small patch test on your plant. The cleaning solution will be perfectly suitable for most leafy house plants, but you’ll want to make sure there are no averse reactions – so a patch test is essential! Additionally, always work slowly and gently so as not to put your plant in distress.