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15
Feb

How to Care For Your Indoor Plants in Summer

As the Aussie summer rolls around, our beloved indoor plants need a bit of extra care to cope with the scorching heat and bright sunlight. This guide is here to walk you through the essentials of summer indoor plant care. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a budding plant parent, you’ll find handy tips to keep your indoor greens lush and happy. So, let’s dive in and make sure your indoor plants enjoy the summer as much as you do!

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The Challenge of Direct Sunlight

Summer in Australia means intense sunlight that can be too harsh for many indoor plants.

Tips for Managing Sunlight:

  • Move plants away from windows that get direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.
    Use sheer curtains to filter the sunlight.
  • For plants that require bright light, like succulents, place them where they can receive indirect light.

Watering: More Important Than Ever

In the summer heat, your indoor plants will need more water than usual.

Watering Best Practices:

  • Check the soil moisture regularly; water the plant if the top inch of soil feels dry.
  • Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot. Ensure pots have proper drainage.
  • Water plants regularly early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.

Coping with Air Conditioning

Air conditioners can reduce indoor humidity significantly, which can affect plant growth.

Tips for Air Conditioning Management:

  • Keep plants away from direct airflow from air conditioners.
  • Use a humidifier or place water trays near your plants to maintain humidity levels.
  • Regular misting can help, but don’t rely on it solely for your plant’s water needs.

Humidity: A Key Factor in Plant Health

Most indoor plants prefer a humid environment, which can be a challenge in the dry summer air.

How to Increase Humidity:

  • Group plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
  • Place plants on trays of pebbles filled with water, ensuring the pot is not sitting in water.
  • Use a room humidifier to maintain a consistent level of humidity.

Nutrient Needs: Fertilising in Summer

Plants tend to grow more in the warmer months and need extra nutrients.

Fertilising Tips:

  • Use a balanced fertiliser that includes all necessary trace elements.
  • Follow the recommended feeding schedule, usually once a month.
  • Be cautious with fertilising during heatwaves; it can be stressful for plants.

Dealing with Pests

Pests are more active in summer and can quickly infest indoor plants.

Pest Control Strategies:

  • Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, like brown patches or webbing.
  • Use natural or organic pest control methods, such as neem oil.
  • Isolate infested plants to prevent spreading to other plants.

The Importance of the Right Potting Mix

A good potting mix is essential for healthy plant growth.

Choosing the Right Potting Mix:

  • Select a potting mix that drains well yet retains enough moisture.
  • Repot plants if the soil looks compacted or if the water drains too quickly.
  • Mixes designed for specific types of plants (like orchid mix or cacti mix) can provide optimal growing conditions.
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Special Care for Common Indoor Plants

Different plants have different needs, particularly during the summer. Here’s a more detailed look into how to care for some common indoor plants during the hot weather:

1. Devil’s Ivy

This indoor plant loves bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top layer of soil dries out. It thrives in humid conditions, so consider misting regularly.

2. Maidenhair Fern

Prefers moisture, especially in the air. Keep it out of strong light and maintain the air around it moist by misting. Place a saucer filled with pebbles beneath the potted plant and fill the saucer with water to create a humid microclimate.

3. Zanzibar Gem

Known for its drought resistance, it requires watering only when the soil completely dries out. It thrives in bright to light shaded areas but should be kept out of direct sunlight.

4. Fiddle Leaf Fig

Requires a rich, loam-based potting mix and benefits from added humidity. It prefers indirect light and needs to be watered only when the soil is dry.

5. Birds Nest Ferns

Adapt well to low light conditions and prefer warm, humid environments. Consistent watering and a moisture-rich potting mix are key to their care.

6. Golden Cane Palm

Thrives in sufficient daily sunlight and should be placed away from major drafts. It adds a coastal flare to your home.

7. Philodendrons

Adaptable to varied climatic conditions, including drought tolerance. They prefer indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil begins to dry.

8. Boston Fern

Performs well in well-lit shady spots and requires regular watering in free-draining soil.

9. Asplenium nidus (Birds Nest Ferns)

Thrives in bright indirect sunlight. Keep the soil slightly moist consistently for glossy leaves.

10. Aglaonema

Prefers to be kept moist but can almost dry out between waterings. It’s prone to fungus gnats, so careful watering is necessary.

Remember to rotate your plants regularly to ensure even growth and exposure to light. During intense summer heat, avoid overwatering and over-fertilising, as plants are more susceptible to root rot and other issues.

Summer Indoor Plant Care | Australia

As temperatures soar, keeping your indoor plants happy requires some special attention. Remember, overexposure to direct sunlight can lead to slow growth and brown patches, so ensure your plants are positioned to receive the right amount of light. Consistent watering is key, but avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot.

Be mindful of air conditioners as they can reduce humidity, affecting your plant’s health. Regularly check for pest infestations and use healthy nutrients to promote growth. A little extra attention can ensure your leafy companions not only survive but thrive in the warmer weather. Remember, happy plants make for a happy home!

If you’re looking for an effortless way to brighten up your space with plants, discover the ease and beauty of professional indoor plant hire with Tropical Plant Rentals. We offer a comprehensive indoor plant hire service across major Australian cities, providing a range of plants and maintenance plans. This is perfect for creating a vibrant, healthy environment in your home or office without the hassle of regular upkeep.

Looking to add more greenery without the hassle? Enhance your living or workspace by calling them at 1800 631 365 for a consultation. Let the experts bring life to your environment!

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