Getting your houseplants through the summer heat

With the current heatwave hitting the UK, there will be many more hot days to come until the autumn/ winter months bring the temperature back down again. There is a few things to know and do for your houseplants to get them through the heat. 

1. Reshuffling your plants

If you have a south facing window and have covered it in plants, it would be worth assessing the plants you have. If any of these plants aren't cacti, succulents, or Hoya and you have more tropical plants such as philodendrons, anthuriums or other softer epiphytes - it'll be worth shuffling them around to move them away from the direct sun. Doing this will ensure your plants wont burn in the tough sun.

2. Hydration

As well as keeping yourself hydrated, your plants may become a little more thirsty too. The heat will dry out your plants faster then the winter months, especially the smaller plants. What was maybe a once every two weeks water, may become once or twice a week depending on the plant.

3. Pests

Because of the heat rising the temperature in your home, you may be opening the doors and windows to cool your home down. It's good to be aware that pests like aphids or thrips can fly into your home. The warmer weather also brings pest breeding season, where there will be a rise in pest incidents. Being vigilant with your plants and keeping a beady eye for pests will assist you in your battle with these pesky bugs! Spraying your plants with SB, giving them a regular hose down will help to prevent and control any pest outbreaks. 

4. Feed

Feeding isn't an essential part of keeping houseplants however, if you are wondering when to feed you plants, now is the time. The warmer weather brings on your houseplants prime growing season. Giving them a feed of a nitrogen based food, gives them a boost in growth - think of it as a weak steroid to make them reach their max potential.

5. Repotting

Repotting your plants is now a good time, the warm weather allows your plants to recover from the fuss a lot quicker than winter. Also, if it's too hot to be outside, repotting your plants is a nice activity to do inside.