Sunshine, warmth, and longer days—summer is in full swing, and while we’re soaking it up, our plants are doing the same! But just like us, they need extra hydration and care to stay healthy in the heat. Whether you're a plant parent to leafy tropicals, juicy succulents, or cascading vines, knowing how to water your plants correctly during summer can make all the difference.
Let’s dig into summer watering 101 to keep your plants thriving, not just surviving.
☀️ Why Watering Changes in Summer
Warmer temps and increased sunlight mean:
- Plants grow faster and need more moisture.
- Soil dries out more quickly, especially in terracotta pots.
- Air conditioners and fans can cause indoor air to be drier.
But here's the catch: Too much water can be just as damaging as too little. Overwatering in the heat can lead to root rot and fungus.
🌿 Summer Watering Tips
1. Check Before You Water
Don’t just water on a schedule, listen to your plant.
- Stick your finger 1–2 inches into the soil.
- If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water.
- For succulents and cacti, let the soil dry out completely.
Tip: Use a moisture meter for more precise readings.
2. Water Early in the Day
The best time to water is early morning when temps are cooler. This gives plants time to absorb moisture before the heat causes evaporation.
- Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day.
- Evening watering can work too, but make sure leaves dry before nightfall to prevent mildew.
3. Water Deeply, Not Lightly
Give your plant a good soak until water drains from the bottom. Shallow watering only wets the surface and encourages weak root growth.
- Empty the saucer after a few minutes to prevent standing water.
- Bottom watering is great for thirsty plants like calatheas or ferns.
4. Adjust for Plant Type
Some plants are thirstier than others:
- Tropicals like Monstera, Calathea, and Philodendron enjoy consistently moist soil (not soggy!).
- Succulents and Cacti like Snake Plant and String of Pearls prefer infrequent but thorough watering.
- Ferns and Air Plants may need misting or increased humidity.
5. Mind the Pot and Placement
- Terracotta pots dry out quickly, great for succulents.
- Plastic or glazed pots retain more moisture, ideal for tropicals.
- Plants in bright, sunny windows or outdoor spaces may need water more frequently than shaded ones.
💡 Bonus Tips
- Group plants together to create a humidity-boosting microclimate.
- Use mulch or moss to reduce water evaporation from soil.
- Rotate your plants so they grow evenly and avoid sun stress.
🛍️ Summer Plant Care Starts Here
Need tools to help you hydrate like a pro? At String of Pearls Plant Gallery, we’ve got you covered with:
- Self-watering planters
- Moisture meters
- Mister bottles
- And of course, summer-loving plants!
Don’t let the heat wilt your plant collection.
With just a little attention and these watering tips, your indoor jungle will flourish all summer long.
👉 Visit us at stringofpearlsplantgallery.com and keep your plants glowing, green, and happy.