Summers in Pakistan can be exceptionally harsh, especially for indoor plants that are native to humid, tropical environments. With temperatures soaring above 40°C in cities like Faisalabad, your indoor green companions require special attention. Here is an expert guide from Fazal Nursery to keep them healthy:
1. Adjust Your Watering Schedule
During summer, plants transpire water rapidly. Check the soil moisture daily. Insert your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Always water deeply until it drains out of the bottom hole, and avoid letting plants sit in standing water.
2. Monitor Sunlight and Heat Exposure
Even though they are indoors, placing plants directly next to windows can scorch their leaves due to intensified heat. Move sensitive plants like Monsteras, Calatheas, and Peace Lilies a few feet away from south- or west-facing windows. Filtered light through a sheer curtain is ideal.
3. Maintain Adequate Humidity
Air conditioners dry out indoor air. Increase humidity by misting your plants daily, grouping them together, or placing them on a tray filled with pebbles and water. This creates a humid microclimate around the foliage.
4. Hold Off on Heavy Fertilizing
While summer is a growing season, feeding stressed plants in extreme heat can burn their roots. Use diluted, organic liquid fertilizer only once a month, and never apply it to dry soil.
