With temperatures ranging as high as 42-45°C in some parts of the country, it’s important to prepare not just yourselves but your green friends as well.

Come first week of May, we will start getting news reports about how hot it has already gotten. As the scorching summer approaches in India, it's crucial to give your indoor green companions the extra care they need to flourish. With temperatures rising, your houseplants require special attention to combat heat stress and maintain their health. In this guide, we'll explore eight essential tips to ensure your houseplants thrive during the Indian summer.

1. Rearrange Pots for Sun Exposure:

With the changing angle of the sun, rearrange your pots accordingly to prevent leaves from getting scorched by direct sunlight. Move plants away from hot glass windows to avoid intense sunlight exposure which can even burn plants.

2. Check Soil Moisture Regularly:

Keep a close eye on the moisture levels of your plant's soil. Water requirements may vary during the summer months, so it's essential to ensure your plants receive adequate hydration without waterlogging. A good rule of thumb to follow here is to stick your finger in the soil around the plant and if it feels dry, it’s time to water the plants deeply. Keep an eye out for the water seeping through the container and coming out of the drainage holes, and that’s your cue to stop.

3. Clean Foliage Weekly:

Dust and debris can accumulate on your plant's leaves during the summer season, hindering their ability to photosynthesize effectively. This is mainly because we tend to keep our doors and windows open relatively more for fresh air. Hence, it’s advisable to clean your plant's foliage weekly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and promote healthy growth.

4. Water Plants Early in the Morning:

When is the best time to water plants during the peak summer season? This is a question that gets asked far too often in the DMs we receive. In simple words, to minimize water loss through evaporation and ensure optimal hydration for your plants, water them early in the morning. This allows the soil to absorb moisture efficiently before the heat of the day sets in. However, if your plants feel dry by evening, you can water them after sunset as well. Avoid watering in the afternoons since the water may evaporate before it has been absorbed by the plant.

5. Use Mulch Cover:

Mulching not only protects your plants during the cold season, they can also benefit from some light mulching during the peak summer season. Applying a layer of mulch to the soil surface helps retain moisture, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weed growth. Organic mulches like shredded bark, hay, shredded newspapers or cardboard boxes, and leaves are excellent and easy-to-find options for maintaining soil moisture during the summer.

6. Invest in Shade Covers:

The long green covers you use to shield your balconies from the harsh, direct sun can also help your plants. Since plants can not apply sunscreen, they need a thick shade cover during very high summer temperatures. Shield your plants from excessive sunlight by investing in shade covers or placing them in areas with indirect light. This helps prevent sunburn and heat stress, especially for delicate foliage.

7. Avoid Still Water:

Summer is also the season for nasty and stubborn mosquitos in India. Stagnant water in saucers or trays underneath your planters can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and promote fungal growth. Empty excess water from saucers promptly and ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. Keep a daily check on all containers to avoid this.

8. Repot Plants If Needed:

Monitor the growth of your plants regularly during the summer season since they tend to flourish relatively faster in warm months and re-pot them if they outgrow their containers. Repotting allows plants to access fresh nutrients and provides them with ample space for root development.

These are all things you need to know before you and your plants get ready for the great Indian summer season. Also, fill and empty trays of water daily for birds to drink from. Let’s all be mindful of all species in the coming heatwave and help each other.

Happy Gardening!