When summer temperatures soar, it’s not just people who feel the heat—your plants do too. Whether you’re caring for a collection of houseplants or tending to flowers and shrubs outdoors, extreme heat can quickly take a toll if you’re not prepared.
The good news? You don’t need expensive products or complicated gardening techniques. A few simple adjustments can help your plants stay healthy until cooler weather returns.
Caring for Indoor Plants During a Heat Wave
Don’t Water on a Schedule
One of the biggest mistakes plant owners make is watering based on the calendar instead of the soil.
During a heat wave, plants dry out at different speeds depending on their size, location, and type. Before reaching for the watering can, stick your finger about 1 to 2 inches into the soil. If it still feels moist, wait another day.
Protect Plants from Harsh Afternoon Sun
Bright sunlight is great—until it becomes too much.
If your houseplants sit in windows that receive intense afternoon sun, move them a few feet away from the glass during the hottest part of the day. Adding a thin layer of decorative pebbles or horticultural sand on top of the soil can also help slow moisture evaporation.
Wait to Repot
Repotting is stressful for plants under normal conditions. During extreme heat, it can make recovery even harder.
If possible, postpone repotting until temperatures become more comfortable.
Pause the Fertilizer
Fertilizer encourages new growth, but that’s the last thing plants need during a heat wave.
Instead, allow your plants to focus their energy on staying healthy until cooler temperatures return.
Keep Plants Away from Air Conditioning Vents
Air conditioning may keep your home comfortable, but the constant airflow can dry out both soil and leaves.
Move plants away from vents whenever possible to help them retain moisture longer.
Helping Outdoor Plants Beat the Heat
Give Container Plants Extra Care
Plants growing in pots dry out much faster than those planted in the ground because the soil heats up quickly.
Check container plants every morning and evening. During periods of extreme heat, they may need watering twice a day.
Provide Temporary Shade
Even plants that love full sun can become stressed during prolonged periods of high temperatures.
Shade cloth, patio umbrellas, or even lightweight fabric can provide welcome relief, especially for newly planted flowers, vegetables, and container gardens.
Water Deeply
Instead of giving plants frequent shallow drinks, water deeply so moisture reaches the entire root system.
Deep watering encourages stronger roots and helps plants better withstand hot weather.
Help New Trees and Shrubs
Recently planted trees and shrubs haven’t developed deep root systems yet, making them especially vulnerable to heat stress.
Check their soil regularly and apply a layer of mulch around the base to help keep roots cool and reduce water evaporation. Just be sure to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or stems.
Don’t Panic Over Afternoon Wilting
It’s common to see plants droop during the hottest part of the day, but that doesn’t automatically mean they’re thirsty.
Many plants temporarily wilt as a natural defense mechanism to conserve moisture. If they perk back up in the evening or overnight, they’re likely doing exactly what they’re should.
However, if they’re still wilted the following morning, it’s a good sign they need a thorough watering.
Keep Your Garden Thriving All Summer
Heat waves are tough on every garden, but with a little extra attention, your plants can make it through just fine. By watering wisely, providing temporary shade, and avoiding unnecessary stress like fertilizing or repotting, you’ll help your indoor and outdoor plants stay healthier throughout the hottest days of summer.
A little patience—and a little observation—goes a long way toward keeping your garden lush, beautiful, and budget-friendly.
