Why is this happening?
Dusty leaves can detract from the beauty of your plant's foliage. Dust from your home can easily settle on your plants as any other surface. If not cleared off, it can coat the leaves in a thick layer that could block the light from reaching the leaf's surface.
Symptoms
Reduced Photosynthesis, dusty leaves can hinder the process of photosynthesis by blocking sunlight
Slowed growth
What to do now
If the buildup is extensive, place your plant in the shower or sink and wash any debris off with room temp or lukewarm water. Check to make sure that the water pressure isn’t too harsh
You can also cover the pot by placing it in a plastic bag before showering the plant. This protects the soil and prevents overwatering
If the plant is too large or heavy to move, you can use a damp cloth or duster to gently clean the leaves individually. Note that some plants can be more sensitive to handling than others, so be careful not to stress them out
Regularly mist your plant to prevent dust buildup, follow Planta’s misting schedule
Common questions
How to prevent this in the future?
Planta will tell you when to check if your plant needs cleaning. Not all plants require this, so if you never receive a reminder for this, then don’t worry - it’s just because it’s not needed for that particular plant. This may be because they have delicate leaves or aren't prone to catching dust.
Why is dust a problem for my plant?
Some homes are dustier than others so just keep an eye on your plant's leaves. Some will catch it more easily that others— particularly sturdy or large-leaved plants.