When summer is in full swing, it’s important to give your house plants some extra TLC during an extreme heat wave. A few simple tips and tricks can help your house plants beat the heat and flourish adding greenery to your living space all summer long!
Neglecting the special needs of houseplants during very hot weather is not a good idea as it can result in leaf scorching, wilting, and even loss of your beautiful energising greenery.
Keep the soil moist, but not soggy
Water Plants Early in the Morning: Watering your plants early in the morning will help to keep the soil moist and cool during hot weather. This will also give your plants time to absorb the water they need before the day heats up.
Make sure you don’t overwater them, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
You can use the finger test taught by Patch Plants. It’s a time-tested method, I’ve used for a very long time ago. I’ve included the diagram for the ‘how-to’ details.
If you notice the soil is drying out, increase how often you water them. Then again, if the soil is still wet when you check it, hold off on watering for a few days until it dries out a bit.
Place Plants in a Cooler Area
Position in a cool spot: Place your plants in a cooler area of your home, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or air conditioning units.
Placing your plants in a cooler area of your home, away from direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators or air conditioning units, can help them survive during a heat wave. Direct sunlight and heat can cause the soil to dry out too quickly and can damage the leaves of your plants. To prevent this, move your plants to a cooler spot in your home, such as a shaded corner or a room that doesn’t get much direct sunlight.
Use Sheer Curtains to Filter Sunlight
Avoid harsh sunrays: If your plants are near a window, consider using a sheer curtain to block some of the sun’s rays while still allowing light to filter through.
This will help protect your plants from too much direct sunlight and heat while still allowing them to get the light they need to grow.
Mist Plants with Water
Hydrate and cool: Mist your plants with a spray bottle once or twice a day to help keep them hydrated.
This is especially important if the air in your home is dry, as it can help your plants retain moisture. However, be careful not to over-mist your plants, as this can lead to mould and other problems.
Group Plants Together to Increase Humidity
Group your plants: Put them together to create a more humid environment, as this can help them retain moisture.
This is especially helpful during a heat wave when the air in your home may be dry. By grouping your plants together, you can create a microclimate that is more conducive to plant growth.
Use Pebble Trays to Increase Humidity
Pebble tray: Consider using a pebble tray underneath your plants to increase humidity levels around them.
To do this, fill a tray with small pebbles or rocks and add water until it reaches just below the surface of the stones. Then, place your plant on top of the pebbles. As the water evaporates, it will create a more humid environment around your plant.
Avoid Fertilizing During a Heat Wave
Avoid fertilising: Don’t feed your plants during a heat wave, as this can stress them out even more.
Fertiliser can cause your plants to grow more quickly, which can put additional stress on them during a heat wave. Instead, focus on keeping your plants hydrated and healthy with regular watering and misting.
Trim Wilting or Browning Leaves
Tend to damage: If you notice any leaves starting to wilt or turn brown, trim them off to help your plant conserve energy.
During a heat wave, your plants may be struggling to survive, and any energy they can save will be helpful. By trimming off dead leaves, you can help your plant focus on staying healthy and growing new leaves.
Be Prepared to Adjust Care Routine
Oversee: Keep a close eye on your plants. Make it a part of your daily routine to connect with the natural greenery in your home.
Be prepared to adjust the care as needed, such as increasing the frequency of watering or moving your plants to a cooler spot in your home. By regularly monitoring your plants, you can help them survive and thrive even during the hottest days of the year.
mulch the top layer of soil
Adding a layer of mulch to the top of your plant’s soil insulates the potted plant from extreme weather. It can help to keep the soil moist and cool during hot weather as well as protect the plant during a cold snap.
This will prevent the soil from drying out too quickly and help to protect your plants’ roots from extreme temperatures.
For indoor plants, suggestions for mulch include bark, pebbles, recycled glass or coconut fibre (coir), for a decorative look.
Research Care Instructions for Each Plant Individually
Seek local advice: Remember, every plant is different! If you’re not sure how to care for a particular plant during a heat wave, do some research or ask a local nursery for advice.
Different types of plants have different needs, and it’s important to understand what your specific plants require to stay healthy and happy. By taking the time to learn about your plants and their unique needs, you can help them thrive no matter the weather.
