Clean leaves = a happier plant
I promise it isn’t just for pretty leaves. Remember photosynthesis? Plants need clean leaves to receive proper nutrients. If your plant is covered in dust, it complicates this process. Diagnosing a sad plant can be challenging, but beginning with the fundamentals, like dust-free leaves, can help promote its health.
Distilled/filtered over tap water.
For the same reasons hard water isn’t great for our skin, are the same reasons it isn’t great for plants. Film or droplet marks can indicate mineral and calcium buildup, which can create a barrier to light. It's not pretty to look at either.
Neem for the green!
Nothing beats a neem oil solution.
It's a non-toxic, all-natural bug deterrent and BONUS: it leaves a nice shine. I neem it up about every 3 months and use room temperature water and a soft cloth in between to keep dust at bay.
Here's how to make it: Emulsify by adding 1 teaspoon of liquid detergent and 1 tablespoon of neem oil into a small bowl. Once mixed and without bubbles, add it to a gallon of warm, distilled water. I like to pour the solution in a spray bottle so that it's ready to go for leaf cleaning. Have plant loving friends? Gift them a bottle of this stuff and they'll appreciate it and you!
Let’s incorporate healthy habits for our plants as we enter the new year! It may seem tedious, but it's worth it to make the most of your purchase or gift by ensuring a long and healthy life for your plants!
Feel free to leave any comments or questions below! 😊
Sending love and light to you and your plants.
-Taylor