Keep It Clean

How to minimize risks of pests and disease

April 01, 2025

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your plant journey, one thing remains crucial—cleanliness. Proper hygiene when handling plants isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a key defense against pests and diseases that can quickly spread and wreak havoc on your green space. By maintaining good habits, you can help your plants thrive and prevent the frustration of dealing with preventable problems.
Title

Why Cleanliness Matters

Plants, like people, can be vulnerable to infections and infestations. Many common plant diseases—such as powdery mildew, root rot, and bacterial leaf spots—are caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can be easily transferred from contaminated tools, soil, and even hands. Pests such as spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats can also hitch a ride on clothing, pots, and gardening tools. By keeping things clean, you reduce the risk of introducing these unwanted guests into your indoor or outdoor garden.
Title

Best Practices for Keeping Plants Safe

1. Wash Your Hands Before Handling Plants

Just as we wash our hands to avoid spreading germs, the same principle applies to plants. Before repotting, pruning, or touching plants, wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to remove any potential pathogens.

2. Sterilize Gardening Tools Regularly

Dirty shears, trowels, and pots can carry disease from one plant to another. Disinfect your tools by soaking them in a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) or using rubbing alcohol to wipe them down between uses, especially when working with different plants.

3. Keep Pots and Containers Clean

If you’re reusing plant pots, scrub them with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. For an extra layer of protection, soak them in a diluted bleach solution to kill any lingering bacteria or fungal spores before repotting.

4. Remove Dead Leaves and Debris Promptly

Decaying leaves and plant material can harbor pests and diseases. Regularly check your plants for yellowing or dead foliage and remove it to keep the environment healthy.

5. Quarantine New Plants

Before introducing a new plant to your collection, isolate it for a couple of weeks. This helps ensure that it’s not carrying pests or diseases that could spread to your other plants.

6. Avoid Overwatering and Keep Surfaces Dry

Moist environments encourage fungal growth and root rot. Ensure proper drainage in pots and wipe up any excess water from surfaces to prevent mold and mildew from developing.

7. Be Mindful of Your Clothing

If you’ve been working in the garden or handling plants with pest issues, change your clothes before tending to indoor plants to prevent cross-contamination.
Title

A Clean Routine for Happy Plants

Maintaining cleanliness in your plant care routine isn’t difficult, but it does require consistency. By washing your hands, sterilizing tools, and keeping your plant’s environment tidy, you can significantly reduce the chances of introducing pests and diseases. Your plants will thank you with lush growth and long-lasting health!


At Scott’s Nursery, we believe in not just growing plants but nurturing a healthy environment for them. If you need sterilizing supplies, clean pots, or expert advice, stop by and let us help you keep your plants in top shape!
 

Subscribe

To join our mailing list and never miss a baby update!
Thanks for contacting us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Articles for you

The Ultimate Guide to Houseplant Soil
Scott's Nursery Blog
Feb 27, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to Cacti
Scott's Nursery Blog
Feb 27, 2025

Organic Garden Practices
Scott's Nursery Blog
May 30, 2024

Related Products
Enzymes Komplete Natural Cleaner

Enzymes Komplete Natural Cleaner

$4.99
21 left in stock
OUT OF STOCK
Restock soon, PREORDER NOW!
HURRY! LET BUY NOW

21 left in stock

Scissors Chikamasa Shears T-550S

Scissors Chikamasa Shears T-550S

$29.99
4 left in stock
OUT OF STOCK
Restock soon, PREORDER NOW!
HURRY! LET BUY NOW

4 left in stock

Gloves Karma

Gloves Karma

$10.99
24 left in stock
OUT OF STOCK
Restock soon, PREORDER NOW!
HURRY! LET BUY NOW

24 left in stock