Summer Plant Care

Summer is a time of warmth and abundance in the Philippines. It is also when your plants need extra care to thrive. Here are some simple tips to keep your houseplants like Monstera, Ficus, Sansevieria, Philodendron, Alocasia, Caladium, and other plants healthy and thriving.

1. Water your plants regularly

Summer heat and increased evaporation mean your plants need more water than usual. To keep them hydrated, water your plants when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure to allow water to drain correctly from the pot to prevent root rot.

How do you know if you are giving your plants the right amount of water? Take the guesswork out with our recommended plant care tools: the Haws Watering Can and Sustee Aquameter.

The Haws Watering Can is classic and stylish. It is made of durable materials and features an easy-pour design making it a reliable tool for an efficient and fun plant care routine. Its long spout allows you to water hard-to-reach plants without risking damage to their leaves.

For those who prefer a straightforward and reliable solution, the Sustee Aquameter is a handy tool that measures soil moisture levels to take the guesswork out of watering. Insert the Sustee Aquameter into the soil and wait for the color indicator to change – blue means your plant is well-watered, while white indicates it's time to water.

These two tools are perfect for both beginner and seasoned plant parents alike. Plus, they make great gifts for the plant lovers in your life. Check out our selection of Haws Watering Cans and Sustee Aquameters in-store or online, and take your plant care game to the next level this summer.

2. Provide adequate light

Most indoor plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. However, some plants like Sansevierias and ZZ plants can tolerate lower light conditions. If you do not have enough natural light in your space, consider investing in a grow light. Our Sansi Grow Light is available in 10w, 15w, 24w, and 36w variants, compatible with standard E27 sockets. It is a great option to ensure your plants get enough light safely without scorching their leaves during the hot summer.

3. Use fertilizers to promote healthy growth

In addition to watering, fertilizing your plants is crucial in keeping them healthy and vibrant. At Shopleaf Plant Studio, we offer a variety of fertilizers to meet your plant's specific needs. Our Nutricote and Multicote fertilizers are slow-release options that provide your plants with the necessary nutrients over an extended period. Our Neem Dust is an excellent choice for those looking for an organic alternative. It is made from neem tree seeds and is an effective insecticide and fungicide.

Another product that we swear by and highly recommend is the Plant Vitalizer, HB-101. This organic plant growth enhancer is made from natural plant-based ingredients, including cedar, cypress, and pine oils. It promotes root growth, increases chlorophyll production, and improves nutrient absorption. Add a few drops to your watering can, and you'll be amazed to see the difference in your plants' growth and health.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced plant parent, our fertilizer products are easy to use and will give your plants the nutrients they need to thrive. Check out our selection of fertilizers, including the Plant Vitalizer, HB-101, in-store or online, and give your plants the boost they deserve.

4. Monitor humidity levels

Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for the health and growth of your houseplants. While the best option for increasing humidity is using a humidifier or allowing access to a natural breeze, saucers can also be helpful. Our Ecopots Display Platter 20 & 25 and Multipurpose Saucers are designed to increase the humidity around your plants, helping them to retain moisture and stay healthy. Additionally, our Venice 2 models feature a smart self-watering system that can help regulate humidity levels.

Saucers can increase humidity for plants by providing a reservoir of water at the bottom of the pot, which allows for slow evaporation and raised moisture in the air around the plant. When the plant transpires or releases water through its leaves, the moisture is trapped by the saucer and recycled back into the air around it. This creates a microclimate of increased humidity around the plant, which benefits many tropical and subtropical plants requiring higher humidity levels. While saucers can be helpful, it's important to remember that they should not be overfilled with water as this can lead to root rot. Instead, constantly monitor your plant's soil moisture levels and adjust accordingly.

Our Ecopots Multipurpose Saucers are designed specifically to work with Ecopots planters, creating a cohesive and stylish look while providing added benefits for plant health. They come in various sizes and colors to fit your plant's needs and match your theme or style.

Investing in products like our Ecopots Multipurpose Saucers is an easy and affordable way to create a better environment for your plants. Combine it with a humidifier or natural breeze, and your indoor plants will indeed thrive.

5. Prune and groom your plants

Regularly pruning and grooming your plants can keep them looking their best and prevent pests and diseases from spreading. First, remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and trim back any overgrown branches; use an organic leaf cleaner like Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner to keep your houseplants shiny and dust free. This 250ml all-natural solution is designed to clean your plant's leaves without masking the dirt with too much oil. Instead, it has just the right amount of oil, leaving a clean, glossy appearance. Plus, it comes with a ready-to-use microfiber towel. With the help of Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner, your plants will look vibrant and healthy all year round.

6. Watch out for pests

Summer is when pests like spider mites and mealybugs can infest your plants. Inspecting your plants regularly for any signs of problems is essential to prevent infestations. If you notice any, do not worry! Shopleaf has got you covered. Our Organic Neem Oil, available in 30ml and 50ml bottles, is an effective pest control solution that will not harm your plants or the environment. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that disrupts the life cycle of pests, preventing them from reproducing and ultimately eliminating them. You can also use our Organic Neem Oil preventatively to protect your plants from pests before they become a problem. With Shopleaf's Organic Neem Oil, you can ensure your plants stay healthy and pest-free all summer.

Neem oil is a natural, organic insecticide derived from the neem tree. It contains the active ingredient azadirachtin, which disrupts the life cycle of insects by inhibiting their feeding, mating, and reproduction. When neem oil is applied to plants, it coats the insects' bodies and blocks their feeding ability, causing them to starve. It also repels pests by interfering with their ability to detect and navigate toward the plants. As a result, neem oil is effective against a wide range of pests, including aphids, mites, whiteflies, and caterpillars, while being safe for beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs. It is biodegradable and does not leave harmful residues on the plants.

Caring for your plants during the summer can be simple. These tips can help your plants thrive and enjoy their lush greenery all season. Whether you are a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, you can always count on our curated products to help you achieve your plant care goals. From our Haws Watering Can and Sustee Aquameters for easy and precise watering to our Shopleaf 100% Organic Leaf Cleaner and Organic Neem Oil for effective pest control, we have everything you need to keep your plants healthy and happy. So confidently enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants this summer, knowing that Shopleaf has your back.