How To

How to Shine Houseplant Leaves

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By Gardengates
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)
Shine Houseplant Leaves
Shine Houseplant Leaves

Houseplants not only look better, but grow healthier with clean, shiny leaves.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Giving the leaves of your plants a simple dusting not only makes them look shinier and prettier, but helps them process more light and grow better.

  2. Step 2

    You can help your plant leaves shine naturally by washing them with water and a mild soap -- not detergent. You might want to cover the surface of the soil so you don't get a lot of soap in the soil.

  3. Step 3

    There are commercial products for polishing leaves that will add a bright shine. Only use recognized water-based leaf polishes. Polishing your houseplant leaves with oils and other materials can clog pores so the plant can't breath.

  4. Step 4

    Misting your leaves lightly with water in a spray bottle is a good way to keep dust off the leaves while adding a little moisture to the air. Your houseplants will appreciate it.

Comments  

signalb99 said

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on 4/22/2009 You should also check out http://www.cleanplantshappyplants.com They carry a line of shampoos and soaps specifically for taking care of plants. There are also great videos explaining how it works and the science behind it.

QABumper said

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on 10/12/2008 Great tips.

RomiH said

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on 10/12/2008 I did not know that dusting the leaves helped them process light better but that makes perfect sense and inspires me to rinse off the leaves tonight! Thank you so much! five stars

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on 10/11/2008 By the way, great picture of the plant. I have the same one.

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on 10/11/2008 These are good tips to add to things I do to my plant leaves. Thanks

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