As summer unfolds, ensuring your indoor and outdoor gardens thrive under the warm sun is essential. With insights from the experts at Botanica Lane Nursery, we'll explore how to maintain the health and beauty of your plants during the hotter months. From preventing common indoor issues to effective outdoor watering techniques, we've got you covered for a lush, vibrant summer garden.

Indoor Garden Care

Common Issues and Prevention

Indoor plants can face several challenges during summer, mainly due to air conditioning, which dries out the air and your plants. To combat this, ensure your plants are placed away from direct drafts and frequently check the soil moisture. Another issue arises from the intensity of summer sunlight magnified through glass windows, which can scorch your plants. If your indoor space heats up, consider rearranging your plants to protect them from direct sun exposure.

Watering Practices

Rather than following a strict watering schedule, focus on understanding your plants' needs. Overwatering is a common mistake. If your plant is in a shady area, it may require less frequent watering. As a general rule, check the soil's dryness before watering.

Boosting Humidity

Tropical plants thrive in humidity, which can be challenging to maintain in summer. One effective method is to group your plants together, creating a mini-ecosystem that boosts humidity levels. The lush greenery can enhance the overall moisture in the air, benefiting all your plants. You can never have too many plants!

Managing Indoor Pests

Common pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs tend to become more prominent during the summer. The key to managing these pests is vigilance—treating a few bugs promptly is easier than addressing a full-blown infestation. Use safer pest control methods such as hand removal or horticultural oils before resorting to harsher chemicals.

Fertilising During Summer

Fertilisation is crucial when your indoor plants are actively growing. Opt for liquid fertilisers that provide immediate results, and choose those with higher nitrogen content to promote healthy foliage. Always tailor your fertilising approach based on each plant's specific needs.

Outdoor Garden Care

Effective Watering Techniques

Watering effectively in the summer can significantly reduce waste and ensure your plants remain hydrated. The foundation of good watering lies in your soil. Ensure it is well-aerated and rich in organic matter to enhance water retention. Avoid watering the foliage; instead, focus on saturating the soil to allow slow penetration. Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is less intense.

Fertilising Outdoor Plants

As with indoor plants, outdoor fertilisation should align with the growth phase of your plants. Use a combination of liquid fertilisers, which can be applied every two weeks, and slow-release pellets that last three to six months. And lastly… Seasol is NOT fertiliser! We love seaweed-based products for soil health, but they do not have the needed nutrients to support plants. Different plants have varying nutrient requirements; for example, native plants prefer low phosphorus, while gardenias and hydrangeas thrive on acidic fertilisers.

Preventing Pests and Diseases

Regularly monitoring your garden can help prevent pest infestations and diseases. Understanding your plants' normal appearance allows you to identify issues early. Healthy, well-hydrated plants are less susceptible to pests and can better resist diseases. When you notice a potential pest problem, like a caterpillar, act quickly before it becomes an infestation.

Recommended Plants for Summer Gardens

For those gardening in Australia, consider native plants that are well-adapted to the local climate. Coastal heath shrubs like correa, westringia, and banksia are excellent choices. Don't hesitate to combine these natives with exotic succulents and Mediterranean shrubs for a diverse and vibrant garden.