Summer is a time of growth and abundance, but also a challenge for houseplants. With rising temperatures and longer hours of sunshine, they need special attention to stay healthy and lush. Here are some tips on how to take care of your green roommates during the summer months:
Water regularly
In summer, the water requirements of houseplants increase due to the increased evaporation rate through the leaves. The warm temperatures cause the soil to dry out faster.
Water your plants several times a week, but in small portions to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Ideally, you should water in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower. Check the moisture content of your plant's soil with your finger before watering to make sure it is not too dry.
If you are going away in the summer or occasionally forget to water your plants, a water dispenser could be the perfect solution for you. You simply fill the water dispenser with water and place it upside down in the soil of your houseplant. If you are away for a longer period of time, however, you should ask your family or friends to look after your plants so that you can still enjoy your green roommate when you return.
check lighting conditions
The longer hours of sunshine in summer can lead to intense light from solar radiation , which could cause your plants to get burned. You should protect your plants from direct sunlight, especially on hot afternoons, as too much sun can burn the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or get burn marks. So make sure your houseplants get enough daylight or artificial plant light, but avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest hours of the day. If you go on vacation, move your plants out of the sun as much as possible to avoid damage.
If you have your plants outdoors or near windows that receive direct sunlight, be sure to protect them from excessive heat. Use curtains or blinds to filter the light, or move the plants to a cooler location.
increase humidity
Humidity can drop significantly in the summer, causing dry air which can be problematic for many houseplants, especially those that require higher humidity. Increase the humidity around your plants by placing a humidifier or bowls of water near them.
Mist your plants regularly and place them close together to maintain humidity. Alternatively, for plants that need a lot of moisture, you can create a mini greenhouse out of a plastic bag to increase humidity.
Fertilize
Plant food is especially important in the summer, as your houseplants are in the middle of growth and need a lot of energy. Feed them about once a month. More than that is not necessary, even when it is warm. Overfeeding can harm the plant, especially on hot days. During a heatwave, some even recommend not feeding at all, as the plant already gets a lot of energy from the sun. So make sure you find the right balance to keep your plants healthy.
Watch for pests
The high temperatures in summer can encourage the appearance of pests such as spider mites, aphids and whiteflies. Check regularly for signs of pest infestation and act quickly if you spot them to prevent them from spreading.
Check plant pots
Check your houseplant pots regularly for any damage or cracks that may be caused by the heat. Replace damaged pots to avoid root damage.
With these simple tips, you can ensure that your houseplants stay healthy and happy throughout the summer and continue to enrich your home with their beauty.
