How to Clean Live Plants Then Make Them Shine

Tips on the Dos and Don'ts of How to Clean Live Plants

Barbara K
One of the ways to clean a live plant is to use a soft duster a few times a month. This will prevent dust and dirt build up. It will cut down on the washing of the plant. When cleaning it that is opportune time to fertilize and clip bad leaves.

These are things to use with the plant cleaning and shining. Using a bathtub or big sink for washing the plant is necessary. Use the shower spray or hand sprayer for the water. Other things to use are a soft sponge or cloth. Another is a mild detergent such as baby shampoo. In addition, some cotton balls, mayo, milk or banana skin (peeling). However, a leaf-shining product is at most garden supply stores to buy. Having mouthwash to use is good too.

First, these are tips to know before starting. Do not use cold or hot water. Using either one of these will stock the plant. Use water that is room temperature or just warm water. Do not use a lot of water pressure on the plant. Do not use just any soap to wash with. Some soap is too harsh to use on the plants. Use a mild soap like a baby shampoo or body bath. Something that is gentle enough for a baby's skin will be best for the plant. Remember that plants have pores to breathe. So make sure not to use too much of shining product. When using mayo, milk or a banana peeling use sparingly. These three items can cause botulism. Do not forget to wipe the plants lightly. The stems and leaves are breakable so treat them with love and care.

Place it at back of the sink or tub away from the water. Leave there until the water temperature is right. Then turn the shower on or use the hand sprayer to wet the plant. Be sure to which the water pressure. Next, with the soft sponge or cloth put the soap on it. Now apply it to the plant. Wipe slowly and softly to wash it. When finished use the sprayer to wash the soap off completely. It may take a little time to rinse off good. Leave the plant to let dry in tub or sink. The plant will need to be completely dry before applying any shining product or item.

If using mayo, milk or a banana peeling take a dry soft cloth to rub over the plant lightly. This is to remove the excess item off. Not to worry the plant will still shine. Cleaning helps keep the plant healthy. Nevertheless, keeping the pores open so the plant can breathe is just as important. Using mouthwash once, a mouth to clean the live plant is helpful.

Repeat these tips every couple of months to keep the live plants healthy, happy and beautiful.

Published by Barbara K

I am 56 and live in NC, I am married with 2 daugthers and a son, 1 granddaugther and 4 grandsons. I have a 6 month old greatgranddaughter. I enjoy spending time with the grands and writing poems. I enjoy rea...  View profile

  • One of the ways to clean a live plant is to use a soft duster a few times a month.
  • Use water that is room temperature or just warm water.
  • The stems and leaves are breakable so treat them with love and care.
If using mayo, milk or a banana peeling take a dry soft cloth to rub over the plant lightly. This is to remove the excess item off. Not to worry the plant will still shine. Cleaning helps keep the plant healthy.

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