When summer temperatures soar, your leafy indoor friends can suffer just as much as you do. Houseplants that normally thrive can quickly become stressed during intense heat, showing wilted leaves and dried soil.
Taking care of your green companions during these hot spells doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some special attention.
1. Create A Humidity Tray
Fill a shallow tray with pebbles and add water just below the top of the stones. Place your plant pots on this pebble island, making sure the pots aren’t sitting directly in water.
As the water evaporates, it creates a humid microclimate around your plants. This method works wonders for tropical varieties that crave moisture in the air rather than just wet soil.
2. Group Plants Together
Plants naturally release moisture through a process called transpiration. When you cluster your green friends together, they create their own little humid ecosystem.
The collective moisture released helps everyone stay hydrated. Just be sure not to overcrowd them – they still need good air circulation to prevent fungal problems during hot weather.
3. Move Away From Windows
During heatwaves, windows can act like magnifying glasses, intensifying the sun’s rays. Pull your plants back 2-3 feet from south and west-facing windows where afternoon heat builds up fastest.
Your plants will still get enough indirect light without the scorching effect. For extremely sensitive varieties, consider temporarily relocating them to cooler north-facing areas until the heatwave passes.
4. Morning Watering Schedule
Timing matters tremendously during hot spells. Water your plants early in the morning when temperatures are lowest. This gives roots time to absorb moisture before the day’s heat evaporates it away.
Morning watering also allows foliage to dry completely before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal issues. Use room-temperature water – cold shock can stress plants that are already dealing with heat.
5. Set Up A Temporary Bathroom Spa
Your bathroom can become a plant retreat during extreme heat. The naturally higher humidity from showers creates a perfect environment for struggling plants.
Place heat-stressed specimens on the counter or floor (away from direct contact with fixtures). After showering, keep the door closed to trap the beneficial steam. Even a few days in this humid environment can help revive wilting plants.
6. Apply Mulch To Potted Plants
Mulching isn’t just for outdoor gardens! Adding a thin layer of mulch (about half an inch) to the top of your potting soil works wonders during hot weather.
Small bark chips, pebbles, or even aquarium gravel help insulate the soil and slow evaporation. For a natural look, try sphagnum moss or coconut coir – both retain moisture while looking attractive in decorative pots.
7. Mist Selectively And Strategically
Contrary to popular belief, not all plants benefit from misting during heat. Fuzzy-leaved plants like African violets actually hate water on their foliage.
Focus misting on tropical plants with smooth leaves, using room-temperature water in the morning hours. Mist the air around the plant rather than soaking the leaves directly. For extra cooling, keep a spray bottle in the refrigerator for occasional refreshing plant showers.
8. Create Temporary Shade Structures
Fashion simple shade screens using sheer curtains or lightweight fabric stretched across wooden frames. These DIY structures filter harsh sunlight while still allowing plants to photosynthesize.
For a quick solution, reposition a decorative folding screen between plants and windows during peak heat hours. Even propping an open umbrella can provide temporary relief for plants that can’t be moved away from hot windows.
9. Use Ice Cube Watering Method
Some plants actually benefit from the slow-melting ice cube technique during heatwaves. Place 2-3 ice cubes on the soil surface of medium-sized pots, allowing them to melt gradually.
This works especially well for orchids and small ferns that hate soggy conditions but need consistent moisture. The slow release prevents overwatering while maintaining humidity around roots. Never place ice directly on leaves or stems – soil only!
10. Run A Fan On Low Setting
Gentle air circulation makes a surprising difference during hot spells. Position a small fan nearby (not blowing directly on plants) to create a light breeze that mimics natural conditions.
Moving air helps strengthen stems and reduces temperature pockets around leaves. It also discourages pests like spider mites that thrive in hot, stagnant conditions. Just keep the setting low – hurricane-force winds will stress plants further!