Summer’s almost here, and just like you, plants can get extra thirsty in the heat and longer days. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your green friends looking their best all season long. Discover watering strategies to help your foliage stay perfectly quenched, even in the sweltering weather.
Why Your Plants Crave More Water Now
Summer brings warmth and longer days, and while people soak up the sun, some plants are not acclimated to the extreme heat and drier air. Proper watering is important to lower the risk of heat damage and support plants as they undergo a higher rate of photosynthesis due to more intense sunlight.
Signs Your Plant Needs Are Underwatered or Overwatered
Here are ways to tell if your plants need water:
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Soil feels dry when inserting your finger 2 inches into the pot
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Container is light when picked up
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Soil pulls away from the pot’s edges
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Leaves become droopy and dry
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Leaves fade
Overwatering can do more harm than good, even in extreme heat. Here are signs that your plants have soggy soil:
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Yellow and limp leaves
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Soggy and moldy soil
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Shedding of leaves
6 Watering Tips to Keep Your Plants Thriving
Give your plants the best summer ever. Here’s how to water them properly.
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Water the Soil of Houseplants
Water the soil to ensure it goes straight to the roots. Avoid splashing the leaves when watering, as they may get infected when wet, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Make sure to research the watering requirements of each plant in your collection. For instance, tropical varieties usually require more moisture than succulents.
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Check the Soil Before Watering
Stick your finger into the soil and see if it’s dry. If it feels moist, it’s best to wait longer to avoid overwatering. If it feels dry, then go ahead and water. You can also use a soil moisture meter to detect dampness without getting your fingers dirty.
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Use Mulch to Retain Moisture
Cover the soil with a thin layer of organic mulch like compost, shredded leaves or pine needles to help retain moisture.
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Make a Plastic Bottle Drip Irrigator
Craft a DIY slow-release water source for your outdoor plants. Use a small nail to puncture a small hole in the cap of a clean plastic bottle and put a cotton swab through it. Fill it with water, turn it upside down and place it in the soil.
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Keep the Air Humid
Keep your humidity-loving plants like ferns, alocasias and calatheas thriving. Mist them with room temperature water daily or use a humidifier. Another option is to place them in more humid rooms, like the kitchen and bathroom.
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Water Slowly
Start slowly and wait until you see water draining out of the bottom of the pot, which suggests the entire root zone has been moistened. Large pots or dry soil may require watering in batches. Apply water slowly, let it soak in and then add more to ensure absorption and moisture.
Other Ways to Care for Your Plants
Watering is key, but there are other fantastic ways to help your plants thrive this season.
Keep Plants Away From Direct Sunlight
Like humans, plants need a break from the intense heat. Keep an eye on ones near windows, in the garage, or in any other heat-intense room. The afternoon sun tends to be more severe than the rising sun’s rays, so move your plants where there’s bright, indirect light.
Take Low-Light Indoor Plants Outside
Low-light indoor plants need some sunshine, too. Bring them outside and place them in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
Beware of Little Critters
Little, uninvited guests can show up on your plants. Give them a quick checkup occasionally. If you see any bugs or weird spots, wipe the leaves with a moist sponge or paper towel. Catching pests early makes them much easier to handle.
Keep Your Plants Growing Strong
These tips will keep your plants hydrated and thriving throughout the summer heat. Put these ideas into action and enjoy the warmer months with lush greenery.
By: Evelyn Long
Evelyn Long is a seasoned gardening and landscaping expert specializing in sustainable and native plant design. Her expertise is featured in leading publications such as the National Association of Realtors and Jay Scotts. As Editor-in-Chief of Renovated Magazine, Evelyn provides homeowners with strategies for creating thriving and eco-conscious garden spaces.
