Over the next few days, the weather in the UK will get very warm. Highs of 34C are expected, which is great news if you’re going to the beach, but not so great for houseplant owners.
These hot conditions can wreak havoc on our beloved plants. Even though there are many that need sunlight in order to thrive, too much sunlight and heat can actually have the opposite effect. And there’s one thing all plant owners should be doing as a priority this weekend, to stop their leaves from turning crispy and brown.
Plant expert Connor Towning from Beards and Daisies has stepped in to offer advice to all houseplant owners in the UK this weekend as temperatures are set to soar.
He’s warned that the hot weather can end up shocking plants if they’re not used to it. When this happens, it can lead to rapid soil drying, causing roots to struggle. The foliage can also be scorched from the intense sun, and when fans are used, the humidity levels inside can fluctuate.
However, to balance out the humidity and keep your plants thriving, misting them can really help.
Spraying a little water on your plant’s leaves first thing in the morning will help to hydrate them, even if it’s not time to water them yet. This step is key in making sure your plant doesn’t go crispy, brown or shrivel up, which is a difficult problem to solve once it’s happened.
However, you’ll know it’s time to give them a proper watering when you check the top 5cm of soil, which you should do every day in summer. Water deeply when dry, which is better than a frequent shallow sprinkling.
“If the compost feels dry an inch down, give it a good soak until water drains from the pot base,” Connor recommended.
You should also think about how much sunlight your plants are getting. Connor recommends moving plants off direct afternoon sun, especially near south or west-facing windows, and use light blinds or sheer curtains for protection.
The expert added: “Treat plants like people — you wouldn’t sit in full sun midday, so shift them into indirect light or shade zones to prevent scorching.”
Although warm weather does boost growth, feeding in the hottest part of the day can burn the roots. Connor said, “Feed in the early morning or evening with a diluted houseplant fertiliser, let plants absorb nutrients before heat kicks in.”