Whether it’s a shady terrace, a statement exterior installation, or a hotel lobby planting scheme, plants are dealing with some extreme conditions this Summer – thank goodness Leaflike are on hand to keep your display lush and leafy all year round!
Sunbathing
Plants flourish with the optimal balance of light, temperature, water, humidity and nutrition, but with recent hot temperatures and high winds, many exterior plantings and installations have been at the mercy of the elements. We know that plants require additional watering in hot weather, but did you know that wind can have a similarly drying effect, by increasing respiration? The more a plant respires, the more food and water it needs to grow.
Rest assured, the Leaflike team are busy feeding and watering at a pace to match the conditions and keep your display fresh, vibrant and full of life. It’s not just about turning on the hose – our horticultural specialists tailor care strategies to the plant types, substrate, and exposure to wind and sun. Certain species, particularly those with thinner leaves, can suffer heat stress more quickly. That’s why we choose drought-tolerant varieties where appropriate, and use mulching techniques to preserve moisture and reduce root zone temperature.
Watering down
While a shower is extremely welcome, torrential rain presents its own problems for exterior planting. Rapid rainfall collects quickly and can waterlog plantings that aren’t well drained. Not only that, key nutrients can be washed through the soil. We proactively assess root health, using growing mediums that promote proper aeration and drainage. Where excess water is an issue, we modify installations to allow run-off or incorporate species that thrive in wetter conditions. Every design is a balance of beauty and resilience – with contingency built in.
Our planting experts are always mindful of weather extremes, developing designs that are well suited to their environment and adaptable to the expected conditions – whether that’s for a living, breathing scheme or by recommending artificial alternatives.
Chilling out
Air-conditioning may be a lifesaver in summer—but for your interior planting scheme? Not so much.
Not only do air conditioning systems reduce humidity, pulling moisture from the air, and leaving your plants a little more parched than usual, cold draughts from direct airflow can shock delicate leaves and stunt growth. You may notice our team taking more care to mist leaves during the Summer months, and carefully checking the soil before watering. Air conditioning can dry out the top layer, and it’s important not to overwater your plants and drown the roots.
We understand the microclimates within built environments and curate plant mixes to flourish within them. Our use of natural humidity-boosting strategies – like grouping plants together to create shared moisture zones – gives your display a more organic feel while supporting plant health and longevity.
More Than Just Maintenance
Your installation has been designed with these factors in mind, and our team is on hand to keep it looking its best – but if you need additional support or would like to discuss changes, do please get in touch with us. With over 25 years of experience, our team thoughtfully considers every space to ensure the perfect blend of aesthetic impact and environmental conditions.
This isn’t just plant care—it’s biophilic design rooted in experience, science, and sensitivity to the world around us.
WE’RE HERE TO HELP!
Please get in touch today and let us transform your space with the perfect blend of nature, sustainability, and innovation.
08000 282 888
designteam@leaflike.co.uk