Are Plant Leaf Wipes Worth It?

[c123anderson]

Hi all. Quick question: any opinions on using wipes for leaves? If so, effective?

Why I’m asking: I haven’t seen any mealybugs (so far) after treatments, but I still see debris on leaves. I routinely check leaves, but I read they’re a good way to keep disease and pests down.

I’m wondering if anyone has experience or uses plant wipes and are willing to share their opinion.

[Dimples]

I wipe my plants with a soft cloth and water. Microfiber cloths help pick up mineral spots and other stuck on stuff.

---------- Post added at 10:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:44 PM ----------

Never used store bought wipes.

[c123anderson]

Originally Posted by Dimples

I wipe my plants with a soft cloth and water. Microfiber cloths help pick up mineral spots and other stuck on stuff.

I read about wiping with a water/neem oil solution to keep the critters away. Have you tried that.

Originally Posted by Dimples

Never used store bought wipes.

I found a pack of store-bought disposable wipes. I was going to use that to avoid potential pest spread in the short term.

[orchidman77]

Not sure I'd find plant leaf wipes worth it for myself. I did see a video on youtube of an older orchid grower who used heavy cream (!) and a cotton swab to remove significant fertilizer buildup from leaves and it was pretty impressive! Dip, rub, and the plant's leaves were sparkling clean.

I think leaf wipes mostly find a market for the indoor plant enthusiasts who want that perfectly instagrammable fiddle leaf fig or monstera deliciosa. No shade, just my opinion.

David

[estación seca]

Bugs are usually in the crevices where wipes won't reach. I can't see how wipes would make any difference

[c123anderson]

Originally Posted by orchidman77

Not sure I'd find plant leaf wipes worth it for myself. I did see a video on youtube of an older orchid grower who used heavy cream (!) and a cotton swab to remove significant fertilizer buildup from leaves and it was pretty impressive! Dip, rub, and the plant's leaves were sparkling clean.

That sounds intriguing. I may have to search for that one!

Originally Posted by orchidman77

I think leaf wipes mostly find a market for the indoor plant enthusiasts who want that perfectly instagrammable fiddle leaf fig or monstera deliciosa.

Perhaps. I’m just trying to be a lot more thorough in caring for my plants — watching for bugs and problems.

I think the things you’ve both said make sense. It seems gimmicky. Meh.

[Dimples]

If I’m going to use neem I spray it and use it at the indicated dilution rate for pest management. The plants do end up looking nice and shiny at the end. If you’re trying to remove dust and water spots, water and a microfiber cloth, or another soft cloth, works really well and the plants look great. If you want to treat for pests, treat for pests.

[c123anderson]

Fair ‘nuff. Loads of so-so advice out there. Thanks for your thoughts.