Cleaning Soot from Greenhouse Plants After Heater Malfunction

Gentle Soot Removal Without Chemicals

Kerosene heater soot coats leaves and blocks photosynthesis. The safest cleaner? Pure soap—not detergent.

Soap Solution Recipe

• Grate Ivory bar soap or castile soap into a bucket of warm water.
• Stir until dissolved.
• Put cotton socks on both hands.
• Gently wipe each leaf—top and bottom.

Why Socks?

They're soft, absorbent, and let you feel leaf texture. Rinse socks frequently in clean water.

What to Expect

• Sensitive plants may drop some leaves.
• Healthy plants will push new growth within weeks.
• Avoid detergents—they strip protective leaf waxes.