Do you have many houseplants in your home? Adding plants to your living space can really elevate its atmosphere and create a more tranquil indoor environment. That’s why you adore them. But do you know how to tend to them adequately?
Adding appropriate fertilizers and exposing them to enough sunlight doesn’t suffice. You also need to remove the dust and dirt that can accumulate on their leaves. These impurities don’t only reduce the air quality in your house, but they also suffocate your plants, hindering photosynthesis.
If you’re unsure how to clean your indoor plants properly, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, professionals who provide maid services in San Francisco, CA, will share their 6-step houseplant cleaning guide. Read on!
How do you clean indoor plants?
Indoor plants can attract dust, dirt, and other contaminants, blocking sunlight and possibly causing fungal or pest infestations. To keep your indoor plants healthy and attractive, you need to clean them regularly. Here is how to do it in 6 simple steps:
Preparatory steps
1. Choose the right time.
The active growing season (spring and early summer) is the best moment to address your houseplants. You should not disturb them during the dormant phase or when you notice they’re stressed.
2. Get your supplies ready.
You’ll need:
- a few microfiber cloths,
- some lukewarm water in a bowl,
- gentle liquid dish soap,
- and a pair of pruning shears.
Cleaning procedure
1. Getting rid of dust
- Dust your plants with a soft microfiber cloth.
- If you have fuzzy-leaved indoor plants, you need to be very gentle so as not to damage them, so don’t press too hard. A soft paintbrush would be a magnificent tool to use. It can easily remove any built-up dust or dirt without harming your plants.
- When it comes to plants with sturdy leaves, a shower in a sink or bathtub would be appropriate.
2. Washing
- If you have to deal with some stubborn grime, add a few drops of your favorite mild liquid dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water.
- Grab a clean microfiber cloth and dip it into the concoction. Wring it and then wipe both sides of the leaves.
- Rinse the leaves with a damp microfiber cloth, ensuring you’ve removed all the soapy residue.
3. Drying your plants
- Let your plants air dry in a place with sufficient ventilation. Don’t expose them to direct sunlight while their leaves are damp, or they may get sunburned.
- Alternatively, pat the wet leaves with a dry, clean microfiber cloth to absorb the excess moisture and accelerate their drying process.
4. Pruning time
- Seize this opportunity to remove all the dead or yellow leaves with high-quality pruning shears. This procedure is vital, as withered or sick leaves can hinder plants’ growth.
Additional tips
- You can also use neem oil to tend to your plants. It’s a natural pesticide because it hinders numerous pests’ reproductive and feeding cycles, including spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, etc. It can also prevent fungal diseases (black spot and powdery mildew).
- Make sure to check and dust your plants regularly so that you can resolve any emerging health issues on time.
Where can I find top customized maid services in San Francisco, CA?
Throughout human history, people have always strived to create better homes for their families. Nowadays, with so many other obligations on the plate, this sometimes proves to be more challenging than ever. But everything isn’t as bleak as it seems. Experienced professionals can help you make your household in San Francisco spick and span. They’re called Adriana’s House Cleaning!
These pros will remove all the dirt, whether you have pets or not. They’ll make your walls shine, your kitchen stand out from the crowd, and much more. Enjoy hiking at Lands End while top cleaning experts make your living space spotless and healthy. Book now!