Summer is a time of sunshine, longer days, and booming growth for many indoor plants. But with the heat comes new challenges — from drying soil and intense sunlight to pest infestations and heat stress. While plants may thrive in the summer, they also need a bit of extra care to stay healthy, hydrated, and vibrant during this active season.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to adjust your plant care routine for summer, protect your green companions from heat-related issues, and make the most of the growing season.
Why Summer Can Be Tricky for Houseplants
Although summer means more light and warmth — which plants love — it also brings conditions that can stress indoor plants if not managed properly:
- Increased sunlight can scorch sensitive leaves
- Higher temperatures can dry out soil too quickly
- Air conditioning can cause dry air and cold drafts
- Pests and fungus are more common in warm, humid conditions
- More frequent watering is often necessary, but overwatering can still be a risk
The key is observation and adjustment — let your plant’s needs guide you.
1. Watch the Light: Adjust Positioning
With the sun higher and stronger in summer, rooms that were safe in spring may suddenly become too bright for some plants.
What to do:
- Move plants away from windows if they show signs of leaf burn (brown, crispy edges).
- Use sheer curtains to filter direct sunlight, especially on west- and south-facing windows.
- Rotate your plants once a week to ensure even light exposure.
- For sun-loving plants (like succulents or cacti), summer light is welcome — but still monitor for signs of stress.
Tip: Leaf color fading or spots can indicate too much direct light.
2. Water More Mindfully
Summer heat often means your plants will need more water, but that doesn’t mean you should stick to a strict schedule.
Watering tips:
- Check the soil daily — water when the top 1–2 inches are dry.
- Use the “soak and drain” method: water thoroughly, then let the excess drain out.
- Water early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation.
- Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking roots.
- For hanging baskets or smaller pots, you may need to water every other day.
Warning signs of dehydration:
- Droopy or wilting leaves
- Dry, crispy edges
- Soil pulling away from the pot edges
3. Boost Humidity (Without Overdoing It)
Summer can mean either high outdoor humidity or indoor dryness from AC. Plants like ferns, calatheas, and peace lilies thrive in humidity, while succulents and cacti prefer it dry.
How to increase humidity:
- Mist your plants in the morning (not at night — it can promote fungus).
- Place plants on pebble trays with water.
- Group plants together to create a mini microclimate.
- Use a humidifier in extra-dry rooms.
If you notice brown leaf tips, your plant may need more humidity.
4. Protect from Heat and Drafts
Indoor plants generally enjoy stable, moderate temperatures — summer extremes can be stressful.
Keep in mind:
- Avoid placing plants near heat sources, like ovens or sunny window ledges.
- Keep plants away from AC vents — cold drafts can shock them.
- Maintain indoor temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
If you move plants outdoors for the season, acclimate them slowly to sun and wind over several days.
5. Pest-Proof Your Plants
Summer warmth creates the perfect breeding ground for pests like spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and fungus gnats.
Preventive care:
- Inspect leaves (top and bottom) weekly for bugs.
- Use a gentle insecticidal soap or neem oil spray at the first sign of infestation.
- Keep foliage clean and remove dead leaves promptly.
- Avoid overwatering, which can attract fungus gnats and mold.
Pro Tip: Place yellow sticky traps in the soil to catch flying insects.
6. Feed Your Plants — Carefully
Most plants experience their active growth period in summer, so this is a great time to support them with nutrients.
Fertilizing guidelines:
- Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks.
- Avoid over-fertilizing — more isn’t always better!
- For flowering plants, use a bloom-boosting formula to encourage more flowers.
- Don’t fertilize newly repotted or stressed plants — let them settle first.
Signs of over-fertilization:
Brown leaf tips, salt buildup on the soil surface, leaf burn.
7. Repot Only If Needed
Summer is generally a good time for repotting since plants are actively growing, but only do it if necessary.
Repot if:
- Roots are growing out of the drainage holes
- Soil isn’t absorbing water
- The plant seems stunted or top-heavy
When repotting:
- Use a fresh, well-draining mix appropriate for your plant type
- Choose a pot one size larger with proper drainage
- Water after a few days to help the roots adjust
8. Give Your Plants a Summer Spa Day
Summer is the perfect time to show your plants a little extra love. Try this once a month:
- Rinse leaves in the shower or under a gentle faucet stream
- Wipe large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust
- Trim yellow or leggy growth
- Rotate the pot for even growth
- Add a layer of fresh topsoil or decorative stones for a clean look
Common Summer Plant Problems — And Fixes
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
| Wilting even after watering | Root rot or extreme heat | Check drainage; move out of direct sun |
| Brown, crispy leaves | Too much sun or low humidity | Move to filtered light; increase humidity |
| Yellowing leaves | Overwatering or poor drainage | Water less frequently; check soil quality |
| Pests | Heat and stagnant air | Increase air circulation; use neem oil |
Thrive All Summer Long
Summer is a season of growth — and your indoor plants are ready to shine! By adjusting your care routine to meet the needs of the season, you can help your plants flourish, stay hydrated, and look their best all summer long.
Keep your watering can nearby, monitor for subtle changes, and enjoy watching your plants soak up the sunshine (safely!). With a little extra attention, you’ll keep your green friends happy and thriving through the hottest months of the year.