Artificial plants are a fantastic addition to any home décor. They offer the beauty and greenery of real plants without the hassle of watering, pruning, or dealing with seasonal changes.
Whether you have a few potted plants around the house or are considering adding tall faux plants to your outdoor space, it's important to know how to care for them properly.
This guide provides all the tips and tricks to keep your artificial plants looking fresh and vibrant year after year.
Why Choose Artificial Plants for Your Home?
Artificial plants are popular because they’re easy to care for and look good all year. Unlike real plants, they don’t wilt or lose their colour. This makes them a great choice for anyone who wants to have greenery in their home without the hassle.
From small potted plants to 130cm tall artificial Ficus trees, there is a wide range of options to suit any style or space. And if you're wondering about their trend status, don't worry—fake plants are far from tacky.
In fact, they are becoming more stylish and acceptable in 2024, as discussed in our blog on are fake plants tacky in 2024. However, to ensure they continue to look their best, it's essential to care for them properly.
Choosing the Right Artificial Plants for Your Space
Choosing the right artificial plants is the first step to making your home look better. It’s important to think about where you plan to put them and if they’re okay for indoor or outdoor use.
Look for the ‘Outdoor-Safe’ Label:
- When putting artificial plants outside, pick ones marked as UV-protected or "outdoor-safe." These are made to resist sun damage and keep looking good even after long periods in the sun.
- Outdoor-safe fake plants work well on patios, balconies, and in gardens. They can handle different weather conditions and remain durable and fresh.
- For indoor artificial plants, especially those near windows, it’s smart to rotate them at least once a month. Why? This prevents one side from getting too much sunlight and fading unevenly.
- Moving your artificial plants around your home throughout the year also keeps your decor fresh and exciting.
To find the perfect artificial plants for your home, explore our collection, which includes options for both indoor and outdoor use.
Key Takeaway:
💡 Choose UV-protected, outdoor-safe artificial plants for external use, and regularly adjust the placement of indoor plants to prevent uneven fading and refresh your décor.
Regular Cleaning Tips for Artificial Plants
Keeping your artificial plants looking bright and fresh means cleaning them regularly. Dust and dirt build-up can dull their appearance. Here are some easy cleaning tips.
Set a Cleaning Schedule:
- Dust your artificial plants weekly or every two weeks to stop dirt from building up. How often you clean depends on your location and environment.
- If you live in a dustier area or have high foot traffic, you might need to clean more often to keep them fresh.
Use the Right Tools:
- To get rid of dust, use a soft paintbrush. Start at the top and brush down gently. This stops dust from spreading in your home.
- For pre-lit plants or topiaries, don’t pull on or mess with the light strings while you clean. Clean the base of the planter too, as dust can gather there.
Gently Wipe Off Stains:
- For stains or spots, use a wet rag to wipe them off gently. Just use water - don’t use harsh cleaners, as they can damage or discolour the plants.
Key Takeaway:
💡 Regular cleaning with the right tools prevents dust buildup and keeps your artificial plants looking vibrant and lifelike.
Proper Storage Techniques for Artificial Plants
When not in use, proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and appearance of your artificial plants. Storing them correctly will prevent damage and ensure they are ready to display when needed.
Choose a Safe and Dry Storage Area:
- Store your artificial plants in a cool, dry place, away from heat or direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can damage or discolour the plants over time. Good spots include closets, spare rooms, or storage areas that aren’t too hot or humid.
Clean Before Storing:
- Before putting them away, make sure your artificial plants are clean and dry. Follow the cleaning tips above to remove dust and dirt. If you’ve wiped them with a damp cloth, let them dry completely before storing them to prevent mould.
Use a Sturdy Container:
- Store your artificial plants in clear plastic bins or strong storage bags with padding inside. These containers keep the plants safe and prevent them from being crushed.
- For smaller plants, group them in larger boxes, and use crumpled paper or packing peanuts to fill gaps and cushion them. Label the containers so you know which side should stay up.
Investing in high-quality storage bags can help protect your artificial plants during the off-season and preserve their form and beauty.
Key Takeaway:
💡 Proper storage in a safe, dry location with sturdy containers helps preserve the form and longevity of your artificial plants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Artificial Plants
Caring for artificial plants involves more than just cleaning and storage. Here are some common questions and answers to help you maintain your plants' appearance and durability.
How Do You Keep Artificial Plants From Fading in the Sun?
- Choose artificial plants that are specifically crafted with UV protection for outdoor use. These plants are designed to resist sun damage for up to three months per year. For added protection, place them under a canopy, archway, or pergola to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
How To Secure Artificial Plants in Pots?
- To secure artificial plants in their pots and create a lifelike effect, add a layer of dirt, moss, and pebbles to the base. This not only helps keep the plants in place but also enhances their realistic appearance.
How To Make Artificial Plants Look Real?
- Pair high-quality artificial plants with real ones to create a more natural look. Using realistic accents like dirt, moss, and rocks can help artificial plants blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Placing indoor plants near windows or glass doors can also give the illusion that they need sunlight to thrive.
How Do I Prevent Artificial Plants From Looking Dusty?
- Regular cleaning is key to preventing dust buildup. Use a feather duster, soft cloth, or a hairdryer on a cool setting to remove loose dust from the leaves and stems.
How Long Do Artificial Plants Last?
- With proper care, high-quality artificial plants can last for many years. However, exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures may cause fading and damage over time, so it's important to follow care guidelines to extend their lifespan.
Key Takeaway:
💡 Regular cleaning, proper placement, and UV protection are essential for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your artificial plants.
Keeping Your Artificial Plants Looking Their Best
Artificial plants add beauty to your home without the effort real plants need. By picking the right plants and caring for them properly, you can keep them fresh and bright for years. Suitable for both indoors and outdoors, artificial plants are a flexible decor choice that needs little effort.
Check out our range of tall faux plants and artificial plants options to find what fits your decor. With proper care, they remain lovely season after season, bringing natural beauty to your home without the work.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the beauty of artificial plants all year round, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment in your home.