Dust, grime, and dead foliage can build up on houseplants over time. Beyond looking fresh, a good clean will make your greenery happier and healthier too. Here’s a simple guide for how (and why) to clean your plants.

Why cleaner plants are healthier plants?

One of the most important reasons to keep plants clean is to aid photosynthesis – the process where plants convert carbon dioxide and water from the soil into glucose and oxygen. This is how plants live and grow. If a plant’s leaves are covered in dirt they won’t be able to absorb as much sunlight – interfering with the process of photosynthesis.

Another good incentive for spring cleaning your indoor plants is to keep bugs and diseases at bay. Healthy plants can fight off pests and infections more easily, and checking for tell-tale signs of unwanted visitors is the best way to avoid plant pests. Plus, your greenery will look better too.

What you’ll need?

You don’t need much to get started. Scissors or a sharp knife are handy for removing sad-looking leaves or dead growth. A spray bottle and a compressed air can are useful if you have these. But lukewarm water and a soft cloth are the only essentials.

To begin with, prune drooping leaves and clear dead matter from the soil. If you spot any insects, be sure to keep infested plants away from your other pots.

How to clean your plants?

Depending on the size and variety of plants, there are different ways to clean their leaves. Here's a simple guide to cleaning the vast majority of them.

• Small and delicate plants. Spritz leaves with a mister or spray bottle to avoid damage from high water pressure.

• Medium to large plants. Spray foliage in the shower or dunk leaves in a sink full of water.

• Large, immovable planters. Wipe each leaf with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime.

• Dry-condition plants (Cacti and Succulents). Remove dirt using compressed air or a mister.

• Container cleaning. Use soapy water and a stiff brush to scrub mineral buildup from containers before repotting.