SUMMER INDOOR PLANTS
Summer is an important time for gardens and indoor plants, especially in Melbourne where the weather can be unpredictable and extreme. In this edition of our blog, we’ll talk about some of the most important things to think about in summer for indoor plants. We also have a section on outdoor gardens in summer here.
When it comes to indoor plants, it depends on the conditions inside. Air flow, temperature and direct sunlight will be big deciding factors that influence how your indoor plants will survive over summer.
SUMMER WATERING
There is no blanket rule for knowing how often to water indoor plants, as every environment and plant is different. The best answer is to monitor the plant throughout summer and check for signs on the leaves and the soil. You might notice things like wilting, black spots or yellowing. Firstly, we suggest asking the salesperson when you buy a new plant what types of conditions it will survive in and generally how much water it requires. Then if you notice any signs that the plant is suffering, take a photo and bring it in to show us.
Generally, plants will require more water in summer compared to winter because of the warmer temperatures. This might not always be true though if you have air-conditioning or plants near south-facing windows. To know how much and when to water stick your finger in the soil. If the soil doesn’t stick to your finger and is dry and dusty, it’s a good indicator that it’s probably time to water the plant.
POSITIONING
Many indoor plants will not like direct sun, especially in the hot afternoon. I once had a Monstera whose leaves turned to charcoal after just a few hours up against a window in the hot afternoon sun. So now, I prefer not to risk even my most resilient indoor plants from being too close to north or west-facing windows during summer.
Find out how much sunlight your plant can tolerate and position it away from the window to reduce the risk of burning the leaves.
Also be aware of any plants that may be impacted by air-conditioning flow. Air-conditioning (and heating) can cause the plant to dry out more rapidly so the soil and leaves should be monitored for signs of drying out and wilting.
FERTILISING
During summer it is good to give your indoor plants a more frequent dose of liquid fertiliser such as powerfeed and Seasol. Consider giving all your indoor plants a feed once every 2-3 weeks during summer as you would during spring. Powerfeed and Seasol used together will encourage more vigorous leaf and root growth and improve the plants ability to cope with stress such as heat and attacks from pests. Be careful not to over fertilise and avoid doing it on extreme temperature days.
PUTTING PLANTS OUTSIDE
Giving your indoor plants sunlight during summer might seem like a great idea, however you need to be careful not to put into direct and intense sunlight. The intensity of light outdoors is very different from the indoors so it’s important to acclimatise them slowly. If you want to give your indoor plants some fresh air and natural sunlight, try putting them in a spot that is shaded and protected but still has access to light
OUR top 5 suggestions for INDOOR PLANTS IN SUMMER
SANSEVIERIA
Philodendron xanadu
Ficus Lyrata
Spathiphyllum (Peach lILY)
Calathea sp.
What I've lOVE MOST ABOUT: INDOOR PLANTS IN SUMMER
Michael has personally answered these questions about his first few years as a Nursery Man in the inner city suburb of Brunswick East
Question:
What can I do if I go away over summer and no one can look after my indoor plants? How can I water them?
Answer:
Before you go, give the plants a good soaking. Try half burying a plastic bottle into the soil with small holes in the bottom to allow water to slowly drip through. Alternatively, you could try using a chux sponge or string with a reservoir of water such as a jug or watering can sitting next to the plant. Cut a long strip of chux and bury one end in the pot all the way to the bottom. Make sure it is sitting underneath or next to the root ball of the plant. Put the other end of the chux into the watering can so it also sits at the bottom. Place something to keep it in place if needed. See some other good suggestions here.
Question:
Can you take cuttings of indoor plants over summer?
Answer:
There are some good examples of plants that will be perfect for taking cuttings over summer. In the past we have taken 15cm cuttings of Philodendrons and Devils Ivy and placed them in a glass of water to allow them to grow roots. It makes sense to do this during summer, as they will always have access to water. This is especially important if you’re going away for a few days or weeks. You’ll just need to change the water every few weeks. Once the roots are established, you can either leave it in the water or plant into a pot with soil.
Question:
How do I know if my indoor plant is under stress during summer?
Answer:
Sometimes this is difficult to determine. Look for signs such wilting and droopy leaves, faded colour to the leaves , leaf drop or black and brown spots to the leaves. It’s hard for us to determine the cause of the problem without seeing pictures or being able to ask you questions about your maintenance regime. So, take photos and bring it in to the nursery and we will try to help you solve the problem by asking you a few questions.
