How to Look After Houseplants as Temperatures Soar
Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to give your houseplants the care they need to thrive. As sunlight intensifies and indoor environments become warmer, your usual plant-care routine might not cut it. To keep your greenery healthy, you’ll need to adapt how you look after houseplants during the hotter months.
According to Statista, around 66% of American households have at least one houseplant. Whether you’re a seasoned “plant parent” or someone trying to revive your pothos yet again, summer offers both opportunities and challenges when it comes to houseplant care.
Here are eight practical strategies to help your indoor plants stay vibrant and healthy.
1. Ensure Proper Drainage to Look After Houseplants
One of the quickest ways to damage a plant is poor drainage. Waterlogged roots can rot and suffocate, especially in the summer heat. Choose pots with holes at the bottom and use saucers to catch any overflow. Regularly empty these saucers to prevent standing water, which can attract pests and encourage mold.
2. Make Morning Plant Checks a Daily Habit
Checking your plants in the morning allows you to spot changes early—like drooping leaves, pest infestations, or soil that’s too dry. This proactive habit helps you look after houseplants without letting small issues become big problems. Plus, it’s a peaceful way to start your day.
3. Adjust Your Watering Schedule Thoughtfully
Overwatering is a common mistake, especially in summer. While plants may dry out faster, it’s still best to water based on soil moisture—not a fixed schedule. Poke your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If not, hold off another day.
4. Feed Your Plants with Care
During their growing season, most houseplants benefit from extra nutrients. Use a liquid fertilizer diluted in water every few weeks. Avoid overfeeding, which can cause salt buildup and harm the roots. A light feeding routine is a simple yet effective way to support healthy growth.
5. Monitor for Pests as You Look After Houseplants
Warm temperatures create ideal conditions for indoor pests. Common culprits include spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats. Look underneath leaves and near the stems for signs of bugs. If spotted early, natural treatments like neem oil or insecticidal soap can keep infestations under control.
6. Keep Plant Leaves Clean and Dust-Free
Dust buildup blocks light and reduces your plants’ ability to photosynthesize. Every week or so, wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth. This not only improves appearance but also enhances plant health—making it an easy step to include in your summer routine.
7. Repot When Necessary
Roots need room to grow, and summer is a good time to check for overcrowding. If roots are circling the pot or pushing out of the drainage holes, it may be time to repot. Move your plant to a slightly larger pot with fresh soil to support continued growth.
8. Prune Strategically to Encourage New Growth
Dead, yellowing, or wilted leaves should be removed promptly. Regular pruning helps houseplants conserve energy and redirect it to new, healthy growth. Use clean scissors and avoid cutting more than 20% of the plant at once to avoid stress.
Final Thoughts: Mastering How to Look After Houseplants in Summer
Successfully keeping houseplants healthy in summer doesn’t require a green thumb—it just takes awareness, consistency, and a few smart techniques. From adjusting your watering habits to checking for pests, every small step matters. The key is understanding what your plants need as conditions change.
Whether you’re new to indoor gardening or simply want to do better this season, knowing how to look after houseplants will make your home greener, cleaner, and more vibrant. And with a well-tuned care routine, your plants will thank you with lush foliage and thriving roots all summer long.
