Prepare your plants for summer

When spring comes to an end and we prepare for summer, there are a number of changes that take place. The days get longer, the temperatures are warmer, and it’s time to make sure that your plants are ready for these conditions. Here are some important tips to ensure that your plants look great and thrive throughout the summer.

Potted plants can use a delicious and nutritious boost in the form of plant food during the first couple of weeks of June. This is to provide them with the energy they need to look their best in the warmer weather. That said, it’s best to use water soluble plant food and to make sure that you mix it to half-strength. Apply with every other watering for best results.

Remember not to over-water your plants. Even those that are particularly thirsty should not be watered excessively. You will need to water more frequently during the summer but you cannot simply escape this regular responsibility by drenching the roots one day and leaving them to dry out for a week. Set a watering schedule and stick to it.

Most plants enjoy a fair amount of sun but they do not all like full midday sun. Make sure that your plants are all placed in the right areas of your home in order to allow them to flourish. Usually, morning sun and late afternoon sun is just fine but you should avoid the harsh rays of early afternoon sun.

Air conditioners can cause plants to experience a form of shock due to the cold air. Just like you should avoid direct sunlight, you should also avoid placing them near an air conditioner. If you keep a specific room particularly cold, you might want to display silk flowers in this room rather than fresh plants.

Air conditioners can also affect the humidity in your home by drying the air out. While this is great for keeping us comfortable, you may need to step up your watering schedule as a result. The best approach is simple monitoring. Check the soil every day and, when it appears to be drying out, you can water your plants. When the water starts dripping out the bottom, stop watering and you may want to empty the drip tray too so that it doesn’t cause the lower soil in the pot to remain saturated. Soggy soil will cause root rot and your plants will perish as a result.