We’d love a world where leaves are always green and work doesn’t consume the majority of our days.
While we may not be able to escape the demands of our schedules, we can still create spaces that offer a sense of perpetual vitality. And that’s what we get with fake plants - decor elements that are always vibrant and always thriving, even when our attention is elsewhere.
But even though artificial plants are as low-maintenance as greenery can get, they still need some love.
So, if you want to find out how to care for fake plants in the best way possible, keep reading.
What Kind of Care Do Artificial Plants Need?
Not as much as real plants - let’s get that out of the way. While we do use the term “care”, the most you’ll be doing to your plants is simple maintenance.
Fake plants may need a little TLC from time to time. For example, dust can settle on the leaves and dull their vibrant colors. This isn’t much different than dusty natural plants, but the method of cleaning might be.
Plus, your fake plants need to sit in an appropriate location. Indoor plants should stay inside where they’re protected from the elements, while outdoor fake plants can live outdoors because they’re already armed with UV resistance.
And even though artificial plants are resilient and do very well outdoors, if you’re in for particularly severe weather, shield them. If you don’t, regular exposure to such harsh conditions may damage them over time.
Where to Put Artificial Plants?
One of the best aspects of having artificial plants is that they can infuse beauty into any space. They’re a versatile option that can fit anywhere.
On the one hand, that’s a great thing - you’ve got so many options to choose from. On the other, you’ve got so many locations that may benefit - how could you possibly choose?
While we can’t solve this dilemma for you, here are some ideas to get your gears turning:
Indoors
If you want a familiar decor element that doesn’t ask for much, artificial plants can be the saving grace. And they lend well to creative use, too. For example, you can just pick an empty wall in your home and hang a lush faux green wall disc to decorate it. You can also use an empty wall to install an artificial vertical garden by yourself.
If you have artificial hanging plants, the bathroom can be a great spot for them because they don’t mind the humidity and create a spa-like atmosphere. You can even use faux plants in nurseries and bedrooms because they don’t contain any toxic materials.
Outdoors
If you’re looking for outdoor decor, faux plants can help you there, too. The most important thing here is to ensure the faux plants you buy are suitable for outdoor use and won’t fade under the sun. In the garden, you can use fake plants to add color and texture to flower beds and mix them with real greenery.
Or, you can place fauxliege on the balcony, the patio, or the poolside to soften hard surfaces and create a more inviting space. Plus, having products like artificial green walls can increase your privacy and shield you from the outside world. And we all need that sometimes.
Commercial Spaces
Of course, artificial plants aren’t bound to residential properties. They lend well to commercial use, too. For example, in commercial spaces, fake plants can enhance the storefront and make a great first impression.
Of, if you’re operating a bar/restaurant, you can encircle the bar with artificial plants like our clients did and create an unconventional atmosphere for enjoying a drink. Finally, you can even place fauxliege along the halls to lead your guests to help them navigate.
How to Clean Artificial Plants?
Cleaning artificial plants is not as arduous of a task as cleaning real ones. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t neglect this step if you want your fauxliege to stay realistic and vibrant.
To clean fake plants, you’ll need the following supplies:
- A feather duster
- A washcloth
- Spray cleaner
- A small bowl
- Warm water
Plastic faux plants can withstand more vigorous cleaning, but you shouldn’t treat them as if they’ve stabbed you in the back.
First, remove any loose debris with your feather duster or a soft-bristled brush, take your spray cleaner, spray the leaves, and wipe away all the grime and dirt that has accumulated on the surface.
Then, you can hose the fauxliege down or dip the washcloth into some warm water and gently remove the cleaning product from the leaves. If you’re working with a small faux plant, the latter would work well, but if you’re cleaning a vertical garden, go with a hose or a showerhead.
Finally, wipe the leaves with a dry cloth and arm the fauxliege with UV protectant, especially if it’s outside.
While this was a more condensed version of our cleaning guide, you can still find all the necessary information for a job well done.
How to Dispose of Artificial Plants?
Our artificial plants can last up to 15 years with good care, but when it’s time to part ways, don’t throw them away.
Designer Plants and other responsible suppliers offer designated recycling programs that do the job for you without harming the planet.
Our recycling program is simple: you need to bring your fauxliege to our warehouse in Miami or mail it to us. Then, it’s up to us - we’ll separate the materials, recycle them, and create a new product.
The process is a bit more complicated than the scope of this blog allows, but you can read about our recycling efforts here.
Or, if your plants are still in good condition, you can donate them to a small business or someone who would benefit from them. Many businesses or individuals would appreciate the opportunity to reuse them.
Finishing Thoughts
Knowing how to care for artificial plants will help you enjoy their beauty for years to come. By following the simple maintenance tips outlined above and showing your fauxliege love, you can keep it looking fresh and happy for a long, long time.