| 01 May 2004
With the temperatures soaring, our houseplants have some adjusting to do. Here are a few tips…Plants dry out more quickly in the beginning summer months, especially if located near a window. Check the soil frequently. You may notice wilting or yellow leaves, as a result of dry soil. Yellow leaves can also simply be a result of acclimating to the heat. Once you’ve had the air conditioning running consistently, the soil tends to stay moist longer.
Another thing to watch for, are insect infestations. Gnat infestation is very common. These are merely a pest and will not harm your plant, but are a nuisance. They lay their eggs in the soil, so that will be your target area when spraying a pesticide or home remedy. Spidermites multiply more quickly in the hotter months. Indicators are tiny spots on the leaves, failing plant health, and small webs. Spray and wipe the leaves thoroughly, particularly underneath, to eliminate this problem. Mealy bugs, which are small white insects that leave a cotton-like substance, are more prominent in the summer as well. Again, spray and wipe the leaves thoroughly.