Summers in India can be scorching, with many places across the city undergoing heatwave-like conditions, dry heat or high humidity. Plants can be sensitive to massive temperature fluctuations and can look
for additional help to stay alive and get through these dangerous temperatures from their humans.
If you are looking to grow or just keep your plants alive this winter, this is a handy guide of tips and tricks you can do to ensure your plants survive the Indian summers. Plants can get scorched due to intense heat, high evaporation, and erratic monsoons. If you have a proper care routine, this will prevent issues like wilting, leaf drying, overwatering or root rot. Focus on hydration balance, shade, and vigilance to keep your greens thriving without overwatering pitfalls.
Here are the 5 tips to keep in mind when taking care of plants in the summer:
Water Smart
In the summer, the upper layer of the soil dries up 2 to 3 times faster, but the roots drown in soggy conditions. Before watering your plants, do the finger test rule: Insert a finger 2 inches into soil, and if it is dry, water deeply till it drains out in the bottom. Do not forget to empty the saucers 30 minutes later. Water your plants early in the morning, from 6am to 8am, as less water will evaporate and one can avoid fungal growth caused by dampness. Use room-temp water and switch to terracotta pots, which breathe better than plastic.
Shade from Scorching Sun
Relocate your potted plants to the east or north sides of your home or where there is 50% shade nets. Direct sun rays, between 11am and 3pm, will burn leaves. Crispy or yellowed edges around the leaves is a signal of distress. Cluster plants together for micro-humidity. Refresh the plants weekly by wiping off the dust from the leaves with a damp microfiber cloth as this boosts photosynthesis by 20%.
Mulch Magic for Moisture
Layer the upper part of the soil with 1-2 inch layer of coco peat, dry neem leaves, or crushed pistachio shells. This will cut down the evaporation of water by 30% and regulate temperature swings. This can also help to keep the roots cool without waterlogging. Avoid piling the mulch against stems as it can lead to risk of the plant rotting.
Humidity Hacks Without Misting
Group pots on pebble trays with shallow water, as the passive evaporation of water can raise local humidity by 40%. Skip the daily misting of leaves, as it can invite fungal growth. These pebble trays work well for tropicals like money plants, and putting the plants in the bathrooms, where there is high humidity, also works for the plants and adds aesthetics to the shower routine.
Fertilize Light, Prune Smart
Skip heavy fertilisers during the summer. Pruning dead or yellowing leaves can help your plants grow better. Prune with sterilised shears to redirect energy. Remove any insects or bugs growing on the leaves.
