What substances in detergant will kill a plant?

Answer 1

The detergent itself. A detergent is a molecule with a polar head and a non-polar tail. In interferes with the cell membrane and makes the plant cell unable to control what crosses the membrane.

Answer 2

The active ingredients in some detergents that can harm plants are typically chemical surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate. These ingredients can disrupt the plant's cell membranes and cause damage to its outer protective layer, leading to dehydration and eventual death. It's important to avoid using detergents near plants and opt for plant-safe cleaning products instead.