5 Tips For Keeping Your Houseplants Happy This Summer

Summer is a season of warm weather, barbecues, and flowers. It is also a season for houseplants they love summer too. Most houseplants are dormant in the winter, but during the summer, these plants grow exponentially in size.

Here are five tips for keeping your plants happy and healthy during the hottest part of the year:

Keep Those Plants Watered – During the summer, plants need more watering compared to the fall and winter because they are battling the heat. It is best to water your plants in the early morning or evening when the sun is not as strong to avoid plant burn and water evaporation. If you find your plant soil is drying out quickly consider adding rocks, moss, or mulch on top of the soil. Signs your plants need more water are wilt, leaf curl, or wrinkles. At this time of year people go on vacation so do not forget your plants if you are away for a while. Consider a hydration solution like a water crystal (test it before you go on vacation) or get a friend to water your plants.

Light Exposure – Summer means sunny and hot conditions. If you have plants that are in bright, direct light consider moving your plants further away from the window or putting a sheer curtain over the window to protect the plant. Rotate your plants every couple of weeks so each side of the plant gets equal exposure to the sun. This will help the plant grow straighter as opposed to leaning over. There are different varieties of succulents and cacti that will adapt to the direct sun, and you will not have to change your care for them.

Be Careful Of The Air Conditioner - Air conditioning is pleasurable to you in the summer, but it is not a friend to your houseplants. The air conditioner's cool air can cause plants to wilt, dry out or die depending on the type of plant. Houseplants prefer a regular, stable room temperature to create a healthy environment during the summer months. Most houseplants come from a tropical environment, so warm and humid are native to them. When you go out put the temperature on your air-conditioner up to keep them happy, plus you can save money. Keep the plants away from any vents so they do not get a draft of air. Air conditioners also dry the air, so you might want to use a humidifier if you have one or use a pebble tray underneath the pot.

Feed Your Plants – During the summer houseplants need extra nutrients to grow and thrive. As we previously mentioned, in another post, spring is the time to start fertilizing your houseplants and it is best to continue it through late summer. Choose a fertilizer with the elements that contain NPK. NPK stands for nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Check the fertilizer package to look for these elements.

Take Your Plants Outdoors – Some of your houseplants might benefit from time outdoors. If you decide to do this, the move should be gradual. First, make sure evening temperatures are consistently above 65 degrees. Next, place them in the shadiest location you can find, then you can gradually move them to a location with light. Never put them in direct sunlight. In the summer, sunlight in the shadiest location is stronger than the sunniest location in your home. Try to find a protected area so it does not get blown over by the wind and rain. Also, monitor your plants for pests. 

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