It's a relief to feel the breeze from the air conditioning when the heat is on, but how do our plants react?
Most indoor plants come from tropical countries, such as the Chinese money plant or dracaenas . They thrive in hot, humid climates, the complete opposite of the cold, dry air we experience when we have air conditioning. We can help our plants get through the summer without any problems, we just need to keep a few things in mind. Let’s get started!
How does air conditioning affect indoor plants?
In places where air conditioning is used heavily, indoor plants may start to suffer. The first signs are the appearance of yellow spots on the leaves and/or brown spots on the edges of the leaves. In more advanced stages, the leaves of the plants may start to fall off, flowering plants may stop flowering and growth may slow down (or even stop!). The good news is that you don’t have to suffer through the heat to have healthy indoor plants in air-conditioned environments.
How to protect plants in air-conditioned environments?
Choose a good location
To prevent plants from suffering from air conditioning, it is essential to keep them away from the air outlet and direction of the air outlet! Cold, dry air directly on the leaves causes them to dry out and stains to appear. The ideal is to choose a place away from the air conditioning or another room to place the plants during the warmer months.
Group the plants
Grouping plants together helps create a more humid microclimate around them, which can be incredibly beneficial in air-conditioned environments. By releasing water vapor, plants slightly increase the humidity in the air, which helps reduce the effects of dry air and keeps the leaves healthier. Grouping plants together is even better!
Spray the leaves frequently
A simple and effective way to help your plants cope with the dry air from your air conditioning is to mist their leaves with water. This helps to temporarily increase the humidity around the plant and cool the leaves. It’s best to mist them in the morning or at the end of the day to prevent the water from evaporating too quickly!
Nourish your plants
Having well-nourished plants is also essential for them to withstand temperature variations, among other stresses. Fertilizing them during spring and summer is the secret and it is never too late to start. specific fertilizers for indoor plants are the most recommended, however, one universal fertilizer It is great to apply to all the plants in the house .
Plants that are more resistant and tolerant to air conditioning
Adam's Rib | Monstera deliciosa
Once again, the first choice is the Adam's Rib. The hardiness of this plant and its ability to adapt to various conditions are the main factors that make it the best choice for those who want to have plants and air conditioning in the same room. The Monstera may go through an adaptation period and some spots may appear on the lower leaves. However, if we give it the natural light and water it needs, even with air conditioning, it will grow healthily.
Sansevieria laurentii |
In addition to being a very resistant plant, it is believed to be the plant of good energy! A great choice for those who enjoy fresh air and a pleasant environment.
