Plants are a source of peace and pleasure for many nature enthusiasts around the world. This passion for greenery inspires people everywhere to nurture plants, sometimes even within the confines of urban living. In the UAE, many residents have created small apartment gardens that bring nature into their homes. However, as summer approaches, these gardens require special attention. The UAE’s hot weather can put stress on plants, making it important to prepare well in advance. From selecting the right plant types to adjusting watering routines and providing shade, several practical steps can help maintain a healthy apartment garden for summer in the UAE.
Ways to Prepare an Apartment Garden For Summer in the UAE
With the right preparations, an apartment garden can continue to thrive even during the peak of summer in the UAE. A few timely changes can protect plants and support healthy growth. Below are some practical tips for summer apartment gardening in the UAE.
Evaluate the Space Before Planting
The first step in preparing an apartment garden is to evaluate the available space. Observe which parts of the balcony receive direct sunlight and which remain shaded throughout the day. This allows for better planning based on plant needs. For instance, sun-tolerant plants can be placed in brighter spots, while shade-loving ones are better suited to cooler areas. It also reduces the risk of plant damage caused by excessive sunlight during the UAE’s hot summer.
If space is limited, consider setting up a vertical garden on the balcony. This method uses wall-mounted planters or shelves to grow multiple plants in a compact area. A vertical setup can maximise greenery while keeping the floor space free for movement or furniture.
Select Summer-Friendly and Native Plants
Another way to prepare an apartment garden for summer is to select plants that are native to the region. These plants are already adapted to the UAE’s hot climate and can handle high temperatures with the right care. These heat-tolerant plants have thick roots and sturdy leaves that can store water, making them more resilient in high temperatures. Some plants also have natural defences against heat and sunlight, such as waxy coatings or smaller leaf surfaces that help reduce water loss. Examples of such plants include Bougainvillaea, Desert Rose, Frangipani, Aloe Vera, Crown of Thorns and Jade Plant, among others.
Plan the Right Time for Gardening Tasks
It is important to set the right time for essential gardening tasks. To maintain a garden in the UAE heat, avoid watering and feeding plants at random times. For example, watering plants during peak sunlight hours can lead to quick evaporation and may even scorch the leaves.
Schedule these tasks during early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are lower. This helps the soil retain moisture and prevents heat stress on plants.
Protect the Garden from Direct Sunlight
When preparing an apartment balcony garden in the UAE during summer, install a shade of cloth or a canopy before placing the plants to shield them from direct sunlight. Additionally, wrapping terracotta and clay pots with wet cloth helps keep the pot surfaces cooler, preventing excess heat from reaching the soil. Adding pebbles to the top layer of soil can also reduce evaporation and retain moisture.
Explore these listings to purchase garden accessories in the UAE. Find items such as pots, shade covers and other useful supplies suitable for your garden’s needs.
Use Organic Mulch to Lock In Moisture
During summer, the soil in balcony gardens can dry out quickly. One of the useful apartment gardening tips is to apply a layer of organic mulch around plants and pots. It acts as a barrier against the heat, helping the soil stay moist for longer. Organic mulch, such as wood chips, compost or straw, also blocks weed growth and shields plant roots from harsh sunlight. Over time, it can improve soil quality and reduce the need for frequent watering.
FAQs
Which plants survive best in the UAE summer?
Plants that grow well in the UAE summer include Bougainvillaea, Desert Rose, Snake Plant and Lantana, among others.
How can I keep my soil moist during hot weather?
Use mulch to keep the plant’s soil moist during hot weather. Furthermore, water early in the morning or late in the evening to prevent rapid drying.
What are the signs of heat stress in plants?
Signs of heat stress in plants include wilting, dry leaf edges, leaf rolling and fruit or leaf drop, among others.
These are some effective ways to prepare an apartment garden for summer in the UAE. By adopting these strategies, plants can remain healthy and vibrant, even when temperatures soar.
If you’re planning to buy or rent an apartment in the UAE and dream of having a small garden at home, follow the methods discussed above. These tips will help you create a healthy and flourishing green space.
When buying new or used plants in the UAE for an apartment garden, make sure to inspect them carefully before purchase.
Thoughtful preparation will not only protect the garden from the intense heat but also ensure it continues to be a refreshing green retreat all season long.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog for useful tips on home maintenance.
