We are still in the thick of summer! The skies are blue and the temperatures make you want to take a dip in the pool. The sun is out longer, and the days are hotter from dawn until dusk. The vibes are good, but what do longer days and hotter temperatures mean for your plants? Here are a few tips and tricks to help your plants thrive this season .
The right light
The summer sun is no joke. Just like we need sunscreen to protect ourselves from the sun’s intense rays, your plants also require sun protection, especially your tropicalplants. Sunlight intensity changes drastically with the seasons — in winter, the Earth’s Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun, making its rays less intense. In the summer, the Northern Hemisphere points toward the sun, making the sun’s rays more intense. Although this change may feel subtle to us, the light your plants receive significantly changes. It’s also why the amount of daylight changes throughout the year.
If you have plants near a window, it might be time to reconsider their location. Look out for signs of sun stress, such as faded discoloration or burn spots on the foliage. If your window glass gets hot , make sure your leaves aren’t directly touching the panes. You could also move your plants a few feet away to avoid burning their foliage. Sun stress is real but can be avoided with proper precautions.
More light, more water
With great light comes great responsibility! Staying hydrated in the summer heat is essential for both you and your plants.
In the spring and summer, plants grow at a rapid rate (growing season) compared to the slower months of fall and winter (dormant phase). This means they will need more frequent watering during the hotter months. For example, if you’re used to watering your heartleaf philodendron once a week in the winter, consider watering it every five days in the summer. Always use the finger test first to gauge how fast your soil is drying out.
The heat can also dry out your soil on a surface level. Imagine a house cat basking in the living room sunlight on a lazy summer afternoon. If the cat gets too hot, it can move. Your plants cannot. While sunlight is beneficial for growth, it also draws moisture from the soil. Don’t get me wrong, sunlight is crucial for the growing process, but be mindful to give your plants a little more attention in the summertime.
Faster, stronger
Since your plants are growing faster, now is a great time to fertilize. Feeding your plants will help their roots grow strong and healthy, make their foliage more vibrant and generally help them grow at a faster rate.
There are so many types of fertilizers out there, which can be overwhelming. I prefer organic fertilizers over synthetic ones because it’s much harder to overfertilize using organic blends. Most fertilizers consist of various ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and come in various forms like liquid or slow-release tablets. I’ve had great success using Flourish fertilizer, a high-concentrated, water-soluble organic fertilizer. I add a few drops to my watering can, giving my plants their treat, and I’m good to go.
You can also easily brew your own fertilizer using scraps from your kitchen. Whether it’s bananas, coffee grounds or eggshells, a lot of our food scraps carry the nutrients your houseplants crave. Just make sure to look up how much to use — your plant can’t chug a venti Americano like I can.
Fertilizing is a simple addition to your plant care routine that can make a significant difference. It’s like taking vitamin supplements: While we don’t need them to survive, they help us feel like our best selves. So remember to take your vitamins — and to fertilize your plants!
Kick them out
There comes a time when everyone needs to leave the nest ...or the sunroom. Now that your plants are fertilized and growing strong, you can start the move-out process. But don’t just place your houseplants in full sun immediately, just as you wouldn’t kick your 25-year-old out of the basement overnight.
Plants need time to adjust to a new environment. If you’re moving your plants outside for the summer, do it in increments. Start by placing them on a shaded porch or patio before moving them to a sunnier location.
Placing your houseplants outside for the summer mimics their natural habitat, making them grow like crazy! But be sure to place them with intention, based on what each plant needs. For example, a Monstera deliciosa won’t be happy in full sun like an olive tree would. I place my Monstera on my shaded front porch for gentle morning light, and once my olive tree acclimates, I move it to my back deck to enjoy the afternoon sun. Ensure your plants are in suitable spots for their individual needs.
Summer brings unique challenges and opportunities for plant lovers. By providing the right amount of light, water, nutrition boosts and protection, you can ensure your plants flourish during this vibrant season. Embrace the summer sun and enjoy watching your plants grow and thrive.
Hilton Carter is a plant and interior stylist, artist and author from Baltimore.
