Peace lilies are stunning plants that are relatively straightforward to maintain, but houseplant enthusiasts must recognise that dust can rapidly overwhelm the plant during summer. Dust is something numerous people disregard, but it frequently becomes a more significant problem during this period as windows are open more regularly, permitting additional air particles to accumulate on houseplants. If the foliage is not cleaned routinely, then dust can capture moisture, creating an ideal environment for fungal problems, mould, and pests such as mites to thrive.
It can also interfere with a peace lily’s capacity to bloom as it will block up the plant’s leaves so it cannot photosynthesise, resulting in a drooping and lacklustre plant. Nevertheless, the specialists at Grow Hub have shared a straightforward method to maintain your peace lily and stop dust from settling on it: a small amount of milk.
They said: “A diluted milk and water solution (one part milk to 10 parts water) works as a natural leaf cleaner. It not only removes dust that accumulates during dry weather but also prevents fungal spores from spreading.”
While using milk may sound peculiar, it actually possesses antifungal qualities and is frequently used by gardeners as a natural treatment for black spot disease in roses.
Milk will protect a peace lily during summer, when it remains extremely susceptible to disease and pests.
Consequently, the plant is more likely to remain healthy and produce flowers. Applying a natural polish, such as milk, can also enhance the shine of your peace lily leaves, making them appear glossier and more vibrant after dust removal.
How to use milk for maintaining a healthy peace lily
All you need to do is mix a tiny bit of whole milk with water. You need one part milk to 10 parts water, so 100ml of milk if using a litre of water.
Avoid pouring milk directly into the soil or using it undiluted. A small amount of milk can benefit a peace lily, but an excess can lead to bacterial growth, promoting mould.
Next, immerse a soft cloth in the mixture and gently clean both the top and bottom surfaces of each leaf.
Allow a minute or two to pass, then wipe the leaves once more with a dry, soft cloth to eliminate any leftover milk. This prevents any accumulation on the plant and ensures it does not emit a sour odour.
By wiping the leaves weekly to remove dust and boost photosynthesis, you’ll have a beautiful, flourishing houseplant that is likely to grow even more this summer.