Rethink Your Watering Schedule
The biggest mistake plant parents make during the monsoon is overwatering. With high humidity in the air, the soil in your pots stays moist for much longer because water evaporates slowly. Continuing with your summer watering routine is a fast track to
problems. The most serious risk is root rot, a condition where roots suffocate and begin to decay in waterlogged soil. Instead of watering on a fixed schedule, check the soil first. Insert your finger about an inch or two into the pot; if it feels damp, wait another day or two before watering. For most plants, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out is crucial for preventing the fungal diseases that thrive in constantly wet conditions.
Prioritise Drainage and Aeration
Good drainage is your best defence against the dampness of the monsoon. Ensure every pot has drainage holes at the bottom to allow excess water to escape. If your pots are sitting on trays or saucers, be sure to empty any collected water promptly. Stagnant water not only contributes to root rot but can also become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Consider elevating your pots on stands or bricks to improve airflow underneath and ensure the drainage holes are not blocked. The type of soil also matters. A light, airy potting mix that includes materials like sand, cocopeat, or perlite will prevent water from stagnating around the roots. If your plants are in heavy clay soil that retains a lot of water, this is a good time to consider repotting them into a better-draining medium.
Watch for Pests and Fungal Diseases
High humidity creates the perfect breeding ground for a variety of pests and fungal infections. Snails, slugs, aphids, mealybugs, and fungus gnats all thrive in damp conditions. Fungal issues like powdery mildew, which appears as white dusty patches on leaves, are also common. Inspect your plants regularly, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and the surface of the soil. Improving air circulation by not crowding plants together can help significantly. Pruning overgrown or yellowing leaves also promotes better airflow and removes potential homes for pests. For prevention and treatment, a simple spray of neem oil solution can be very effective against many common pests and fungi.
Adjust Sunlight and Location
The monsoon often means days of grey, overcast skies, which significantly reduces the amount of light your plants receive. While you should protect delicate plants from being battered by heavy rains, they still need adequate light for photosynthesis. To compensate for the weaker sunlight, you may need to move your indoor plants closer to windows or to brighter spots on a covered balcony. Rotating your pots every few days can also help ensure all sides of the plant get some light, preventing them from stretching or becoming 'leggy' as they reach for a light source. For plants kept outdoors, ensure they are not in a position where they will be waterlogged by constant, direct rainfall.
Hold Back on Fertiliser
Plants generally grow more slowly during the cloudy, humid days of the monsoon due to reduced sunlight and limited photosynthesis. Because they are not in an active growth phase, they require fewer nutrients. It’s best to reduce the frequency of fertilising during this season. Adding fertiliser to already wet soil can risk burning the roots. Heavy rains can also wash away nutrients from the soil, a process known as leaching. If you feel the need to feed your plants, opt for a light, organic option like vermicompost or a very diluted liquid fertiliser. Apply it sparingly, perhaps once every three to four weeks, and only when there is a dry spell.
