The Complete Guide to Caring for Outdoor Ornamental Plants in Hot Climates Mid-summer can be a challenge for outdoor plant care due to the intense heat that increases daily watering needs and leads to loss of nutrients. With a few adjustments and the right knowledge, you can easily keep your plants healthy during this period.

In the Planty blog, we will explain the comprehensive guide to caring for outdoor ornamental plants in hot climates, in addition to the best outdoor plants provided by Planty Nursery.

Caring for outdoor plants in hot climates

1. Increase irrigation

As temperatures rise, plants' water needs increase due to rapid water loss from the leaves, leading to problems such as sunburn and wilting. It is best to increase the amount of supplemental watering before a heat wave arrives. Attention should be paid to the timing of watering, as watering in the middle of the day is ineffective, as the plants are busy adjusting to the heat rather than absorbing water. The best time to water is early in the morning when temperatures are lower, and avoid overwatering.

2. Fertilization

During high temperatures, plants use all their energy to survive, which reduces their ability to absorb fertilizer. Fertilizer stays in the soil, which can burn plants. So, it's best to skip fertilizing during heat waves and return to your regular schedule when the weather improves.

3. Pruning plants

Some people think that sunburned plants should be pruned immediately, but it is best to avoid this. The burned leaves act as a shield to protect the inner parts of the plant, providing shade and protection from the sun. It is best to wait until temperatures cool down before pruning the damaged growth.

4. Provide shade

Although plants cannot move into the shade, we can help them by providing cover such as shade cloth or burlap to protect them from direct sunlight. If plants are grown in containers, consider placing them on rollers to make them easier to move to shaded areas when needed.

5. Root protection

Roots are exposed to high temperatures that can affect their health. A layer of mulch can be added around plants such as ground covers, shrubs, and trees to keep the soil cool and prevent it from drying out. The mulch layer should be 3 inches thick, spread around the plants near the drip line, and kept 6 inches away from the tree trunks.

Top 5 Heat Tolerant Outdoor Plants

1. Indian jasmine

Indian jasmine is a heat tolerant plant. It is a flowering plant, characterized by its beautiful fragrant flowers and shiny leaves, and is often used to decorate gardens. It is also known by names such as frangipani and the tree of discord.

2. Hell Plant

The oleander is a stunning tropical plant that thrives in warm climates, and is ideal for growing in the hot regions of most Saudi Arabia. It needs sun and heat to grow well, and is drought tolerant provided moderate watering and well-drained soil are provided.

3. Cassia glauca

Cassia glauca is a drought and heat resistant tree, making it suitable for hot climates in most areas of Saudi Arabia. It needs direct sunlight and well-drained soil. In areas with extreme heat, it is preferable to provide some shade during the afternoon, especially in areas where the heat is very intense during the summer. It is also a good choice for landscaping and dry areas.

4. Chasteberry

This plant is heat tolerant. It grows well in both dry and humid climates, and needs well-drained soil and at least six hours of direct sun per day. Water it initially, but is drought tolerant once established. Fertilize in the spring about every other year.

5. Tecoma Stans

Also called yellow lupine, it is a heat and drought tolerant plant. It thrives in hot, dry climates, making it suitable for hot climates like those in Saudi Arabia, and is an ideal choice for outdoor gardens. It prefers direct sunlight and well-drained soil.

By following our guide to caring for outdoor ornamental plants in hot climates, you can maintain a beautiful garden all year round. You can also choose plants that can withstand high temperatures from Planty Nursery to make caring for them in this climate easier.