The fatty plants are famous for their resistance, but during a prolonged heat wave they can still suffer. Knowing how to protect them in these conditions becomes essential for anyone who cultivates them.
When temperatures exceed 35 ° C for several consecutive days, even the most leathery succulents begin to suffer. We tend to think that it is enough to leave them in the sun, so much “they are desert plants”. But it is a misleading place: in deserts, the nights are often cold and the temperatures drop sharply, creating a thermal break that does not exist in the city. In balconies and terraces the heat is continuous, often amplified by walls and floors that retain heat.
What can be done immediately, without too many tools? Check the soil with a simple tactile test. If the pot is hot to the touch, it is better to move the plant to the shade for a few hours. A perforated curtain, a jute sheet or even a strategically positioned chair can offer that minimum shading that makes the difference. It is also important to avoid the greenhouse effect: transparent plastic covers, for example, must be completely removed.
Irrigation of fatty plants during heat waves: when and how to do it really well
One of the most common traps is frequent irrigation. It is thought that the more hot, the more you have to wet. In reality the succulent plants They prefer a different routine: little water, but at the right time. Watering late late or at dawn allows the roots to absorb humidity without “cooking” in the sun. Better still if irrigation from the bottom is practiced: place the vase in a saucer full of water for about twenty minutes. So the plant takes only what you need.
What if the soil remains humid for days? The vase probably does not drain well or is too big. In summer, plants in small containers are easier to manage because they dry faster.
Shadow, ventilation and position: the winning triad
Not all fatty plants love the direct sun. Some, such as the Hawortia or the Gastaria, prefer brighter but shielded environments. During a heat wave, it is essential to create a partial shadow area.
Any practical tricks?
- Use outdoor curtains or umbrellas to create filtered shadow.
- Avoid direct contact with hot surfaces such as cement or tiles.
- Raise the pots from the ground with wooden or metal supports.
- Always guarantee a little ventilation to avoid the stagnation of heat.
Even the simple movement of a vase behind a railing or under a window sill can change everything. Natural ventilation is often underestimated, but it is one of the most effective factors against overheating.
How to feed fatty plants during heat waves and make small anti-stress controls
During hot periods, it is better to avoid even too nitrogen -rich fertilizers: they stimulate fast growth and make the fabrics weaker. Better to opt for balanced fertilizers, perhaps liquid, to be administered every 20 days at most.
In addition, inspecting the plant regularly is a good habit. Slot or translucent leaves can indicate burns or rot. If, on the other hand, whitish spots or insects are noticeable, it is better to intervene with natural remedies such as soft soap or Neem oil.
The cleaning of the leaves also helps. Remove dust and residues allows the plant to breathe better and adjust the temperature more efficiently.
With small constant gestures, even during a hot summer, it is possible to maintain your fatty and decorative fatty plants. Just observe them carefully, adapt to the signals they send and intervene without haste, but with common sense.
Curious to find out which varieties do they find better in the heat? Or maybe to experiment with alternative substrates to improve drainage?
There are many possibilities, just let yourself be guided by passion and a pinch of experience.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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