Brits told to dust their plants this month to keep them healthy

As winter approaches, Brits are being urged to give their houseplants a little extra care by dusting their leaves regularly. With sunlight already limited during the winter months, experts warn that dust accumulation on leaves can make it even harder for plants to absorb what little light is available, potentially impacting their health. Petar Ivanov, a gardening expert at Fantastic Gardeners , said: “In summer, when there’s plenty of light, a coating of dust on your houseplants’ leaves doesn’t pose much of an issue.

“However, in winter, when sunlight is weaker and less frequent, that same dust layer can prevent plants from getting the light they need to photosynthesize and grow.” During winter, the reduced light exposure can already stress houseplants, making it vital to maximise every bit of sunlight they receive. Dust on the leaves acts as a barrier, preventing plants from effectively capturing the weak winter sunlight.



By cleaning their leaves, plant owners can help their plants absorb as much light as possible, keeping them healthier through the darker months. To dust plant leaves, experts recommend using a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe each leaf, removing dirt and dust without damaging the plant. For plants with delicate or fuzzy leaves, a soft brush can be used instead.

Indoor plants rely heavily on natural light, especially during the colder months when outdoor conditions prevent opening windows for fresh air and sunlight. In addition to wiping down leaves, gardeners suggest placing plants near windows or light sources to give them the best chance of staying vibrant through the winter. "Regularly cleaning your plant’s leaves is an easy habit that can make a big difference,” says Ivanov.

“Keeping them dust-free ensures that even the reduced light can be fully utilized.” Along with dusting leaves, Ivanov suggests rotating plants every couple of weeks to ensure they receive light evenly on all sides. In rooms with particularly low natural light, using a grow light can also supplement light needs for plants that are more light-hungry.

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