Keep your plants happy in the heat

Heat and humidity don’t just affect us. Plants are also affected by the environment and their surroundings. During the hotter months of the year, it is important to take extra special care of your plants in order to ensure their survival and help them flourish. Here are some essential tips to keep your plants happy in the heat.

Air circulation

It might be tempting to turn your air conditioner on during the hottest days of the year but it should not run unless absolutely necessary. This is not just about keeping your electric bills low, but also keeping your home comfortable. You can keep your plants happy in the heat without cooling your home by ten or more degrees. All you need to do is make sure that you allow fresh air in during the early hours of the morning and late at night. You can use fans to circulate the air but make sure that you don’t point them at your plants. They will appreciate the naturally cooler fresh air.

Sunlight

The sun is at its strongest during the summer months. Which is why you might need to move your pots from their winter home in order to keep your plants happy in the heat. If they receive too much direct sunlight, they can easily dry out and perish. Take note of the preferences of each plant before choosing its new home for these months.

Water

Water is essential but you don’t want to overdo it. It might be tempting to totally flood the roots of your plant but this is not always a good idea. Some plants enjoy a bit of a ‘flush’ now and then but this is usually the exception rather than the rule. Keep track of the moisture level of the soil and water accordingly. If you need to increase the humidity around the plant, you can place the pot on a tray of pebbles and add water to this tray. The pebbles prevent the water from being absorbed into the soil and possibly causing root rot. Instead, the water will evaporate and increase humidity around the plant.

With these tips, you will keep your plants happy in the heat and you will help them survive even the hottest days! Make sure that you always take your queues from the plant and take note of any changes in appearance.