Although there has been previous in-depth discussions on the message board about leaf cleaners, I wanted to bring to light a product I discovered last year at TPIE that I haven’t heard mentioned here at all. First, let me express that I am in no way endorsing a particular vendor, but perhaps there is a place for this product in this industry. I would also like to take a moment to outline what I perceive as three main "types" of leaf cleaners so that I can put Magic Kleen into perspective.

1. There are certain products that I recommend specifically in regard to removing chemical residue and water spots.
2. There are oil based "cleaners" and shines that mask dirt and residue.
3. There are soap based products for greasy accounts and honeydew to name only two uses for that group.

Magic Kleen fits into the first category and is pretty darn good to the extent that chemical residue can be removed (I hate to cite a gross example, but chemical residue can be like a tough soap scum buildup- sometimes it ain’t coming off without a little elbow grease.) Its good for cleaning plants before installation (all of the cleaners I put into category number one can be a problem for some interior surfaces,) or to request your grower to use if you prefer a non-oiled plant if you go the route of receiving plants clean from the point of delivery. Also, the manufacturer does recommend testing a plant type before using as it is an acid, but I haven’t heard of any problems with phyto during general use. Its manufactured by Flo-Tec. Their number is 800-335-6832, and they will have a booth at TPIE.

To be fair, I also recommend the original Leaf Tek for removing residue although I found it often required repeat application.

Why is Tropicare so poular? I thought it left a spotty and rather noticeable residue. Maybe my results were a fluke.

Happy cleaning!
Yours in benevolence, Lynnae Dehoff.

Tropicare’s directions for use stress that the spray cannot be allowed to dry on the plant...it must be thoroughly rinsed with water while it is still wet, or it will leave a sticky, spotty residue that is visible after it dries.

Tropicare is great for tough stains on foliage, such as pesticide residues or water spots left by overhead watering with "salty" water. It’s a weak acid, though, and you need to be careful not to apply a more concentrated solution than is recommended on the label.

I’ve even used it to remove grime and caked-on dust from old, neglected artificial foliage...it doesn’t seem to remove the sheen from the surface of the fabric if you rinse it thoroughly and before it can dry. An oldie but goodie.

Clem