Summertime Houseplant Care

Summer Houseplant Care in the East Bay

Late summer in the East Bay brings bright sunshine, comfortable breezes off the bay, and plenty of opportunities to help your indoor garden thrive without feeling like a chore. Here are seven useful tips to keep your houseplants healthy and lush all season long.

1. Water Wisely, Not Frequently

Don’t fall into the habit of daily watering just because it’s hot outside. Instead, water only when the top inch of soil is dry. A deep soak every few days is better than frequent light sprinkles. Make sure excess water drains freely and doesn’t sit in saucers as standing water invites root rot. Keep in mind that plants in clay pots dry out faster than those in plastic or glazed ceramic.

2. Raise Humidity with Simple Tricks

East Bay summers often mean drier indoor air, especially if fans or AC units are running. Most houseplants, particularly tropical varieties, appreciate humidity in the 40–60% range.

You can boost moisture levels by:

• Grouping plants together to create a shared humid microclimate.

• Using a pebble tray with water underneath the pot to allow gentle evaporation.

• Lightly misting leaves in the morning—though it’s best to avoid misting plants with fuzzy leaves.

Adding a small humidifier to your space is another helpful option, especially if you have a larger indoor plant collection.

3. Keep It Cool and Avoid Hot Spots

While houseplants love light, summer sun through East Bay windows can be intense—especially in west- or south-facing spots. If your plants are looking scorched or faded, consider moving them a few feet back from the window or filtering sunlight with sheer curtains.

Equally important: keep plants away from direct air conditioning vents or constantly running fans. These can dry out foliage and soil faster than usual.

4. Let Plants Teach You

Summer is a good time to slow down and tune into your plants. Drooping, yellowing, or browning leaves can be signs of overwatering, underwatering, or dry air. Dusty leaves reduce photosynthesis, so gently wipe them with a damp cloth when needed.

Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests like spider mites or aphids, especially if you see tiny webs, speckled leaves, or curling tips. Catching issues early helps avoid infestations, especially during the warm months when pests can multiply quickly.

5. Groom and Rotate for Better Growth

Keep your houseplants looking fresh by removing any yellowed, dry, or damaged leaves. This not only improves appearance but encourages new growth. Summer is also a great time to rotate your pots every couple of weeks so each side gets even exposure to light—this helps plants grow more symmetrically.

6. Plants Help Cool and Purify

Plants naturally release moisture through their leaves, which can slightly cool the air in your home. Grouped together, they can have a small but noticeable impact on indoor comfort. Some houseplants, like ferns and peace lilies, are particularly good at this. And of course, green foliage always brings a calming, refreshing vibe to your space.

7. Down-to-Earth Care Reminders

A few small habits can make a big difference:

• Always use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

• Hold off on fertilizing during heat waves—plants need their energy to stay hydrated and stable.

• Avoid repotting in extreme heat unless absolutely necessary. Let your plants stay comfortable and focus on thriving rather than adjusting to a new home.

If you’re unsure how to care for a specific plant during summer, look for signs it’s giving you—plants often tell us what they need. Pay attention, be patient, and remember: it’s all part of the process. 

If you need help on your houseplant journey, visit our San Leandro nursery and garden center today. Our plant-loving team members are happy to answer your questions and help you choose the right plant for your space. Happy Growing!