Summer heat can be tough on plants, but there are a few things you can do to help them survive. Here are five tips:
Increase waterings. High temperatures will cause plants to lose water more quickly, so it's important to water them more often. The best time to water is in the morning, when the temperatures are cooler. Avoid watering in the middle of the day, as this can actually stress plants out.
Avoid pruning. Sunburned leaves may look unsightly, but it's best to avoid pruning them. The sunburned leaves are actually protecting the healthy parts of the plant. Wait until the heat wave is over to prune.
Temporary shade is a must! If you have plants that are sensitive to the sun, you can provide them with shade. This can be done by using shade cloth, landscape burlap, or even just moving the plants to a shadier location.
Skip the fertilizer. Plants need all their energy to survive the heat, so it's best to skip fertilizing during a heat wave. Fertilizer can actually burn plants if they're not getting enough water.
Don’t skip the mulch. Mulch helps to keep the soil cool and moist, which can help plants survive the heat. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants that is about 3 inches thick.
Is it too late?
How to Tell if a Plant Is Dead or Alive
If your plant has been exposed to a heat wave, it may look dead. However, there are a few ways to tell if it's actually dead or just in shock.
Wilting - If the leaves of your plant are wilted, it doesn't necessarily mean that it's dead. Some plants will wilt when they're stressed, but they may recover if they're watered properly.
Sunburned leaves - If the leaves of your plant are sunburned, but the stems are still pliable and green, the plant is still alive. The sunburned leaves will eventually fall off, but the plant will eventually recover.
Lack of color - If there is no green left on your plant, it's probably dead. However, it's still worth checking the stems to see if they're still pliable. If they are, there's a chance that the plant may still be alive.
Replacing Plants
If you've determined that your plant is dead, it's best to remove it and replace it with a new one. This will save you from having to constantly worry about whether the plant will survive. By following these tips, you can help your plants survive summer heat and thrive.