Why dirty houseplants lead a tough life

July 8, 2004

Plants growing outdoors are washed regularly by rain and feather

dusted by the wind. But it's up to us to clean indoor plants,

especially the hard-working ones--houseplants that clean air. Dust,

grease, oil, and other airborne particles settle on leaves, making

them unattractive and dull-looking. Leaves that are dirty can't

absorb as much sunlight as clean ones.

This affects overall plant health because plants sustain themselves

through photosynthesis, a process in which the leaves absorb sunlight

and carbon dioxide to make their food. When plants are coated with

residues, their stomata (stoh-MAH-tuh), the openings through which

they exhale oxygen and inhale carbon dioxide, become blocked and they

have a difficult time with this critical process.

Imagine trying to eat a sandwich through a strainer. . .

" Like people, plants respond to extra attention. "

--H. Peter Loewer, author

Peridically cleaning your houseplants improve their appearance (we

all like to look our best, right?), stimulates growth, and helps to

control insects and other pests. One more thing. No plant likes to be

left in the corner and fogotten. They thrive when you putz around and

and pay more attention to them. Try it! (To learn more about caring

for houseplants, check out my articles, Houseplants That Clean the

Air and Aquarium Water and Coffee Grounds: Unusual and Healthy

Houseplant Foods That Are Right Under Your Nose.)

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