Clean start
When your life’s a whirl of work and social engagements, dusting your plants can easily slip down that never-ending to-do list. But don’t underestimate the transformative powers of a spring clean. Seeing those lush, green, glossy leaves come back to life will be like welcoming an old friend back into your home.
If you didn’t clean them as often as you should last year, start with a deep clean to get rid of the build up of last year’s grime. Fill a squirty bottle with a very mild soapy water and spritz your leaves then wipe with a damp cloth and then let them air-dry. Once your plants are sparkling, a quick once-over with a duster every week, plus the occasional clean, is all you’ll need to keep them looking fresh.
Give them a New Year ‘haircut’
Dusting an overgrown, neglected plant and expecting it to look attractive is a bit like trying to disguise hair that’s full of split ends and in dire need of a good cut by slapping on a deep conditioning treatment: it just isn’t going to work. Removing any dead leaves and trimming back straggly stems will leave your plant looking the botanical equivalent of fresh-from-the-salon!
New year healthy diet
Of course, the New Year isn’t just about looking good on the outside – it’s about cleaning up your habits and getting healthy on the inside. And that goes for your plants, too. Start by checking the roots. If the plant is rootbound (the roots have taken over because the plant has outgrown the pot) rehouse it in a new, bigger pot. Next, give your plant a healthy nutrient boost by adding some slow-release organic fertiliser to the soil. Finish off with a pretty and protective layer of mulch.
Show them off
Now your plants are looking lush, shiny and healthy, have a think about how you can optimise them in the home. Hanging planters will continue to be a big trend for 2017 – great for those cascading climbers – and ideal if your small space is looking over-cluttered. Ladder shelves are also useful for showing off your plant collection when you’re short on space. Check out our guide for more creative ways to display your plants in smaller spaces. If you fancy a change, why not swap last year’s minimalist planters for the hot new trend for chunky organic-looking earthenware pots – ideal for cactuses and palms.
Feeling inspired? We'd love for you to share snaps of your shiny new, de-cluttered collection with us on Twitter and Instagram.
