The Lazy Gardener’s Guide to Summer Plant Care
Want a lush garden with less work? This summer, skip the daily watering and back-breaking maintenance. Whether you're growing veggies in raised garden beds or houseplants indoors, these smart strategies will help your plants thrive—without draining your time or energy.
1. Use Ollas: The Ancient Trick for Smart Watering
Our favorite lazy gardener secret? Olla watering pots. These terracotta vessels are buried in your soil and filled with water. They slowly release moisture at the root level—automatically, based on soil dryness. Even the University of Arizona have applauded Ollas as a great way to keep your soil nice and moist in their studies!
Benefits of using Ollas:
- Reduce water use by up to 70%
- Help prevent root rot and overwatering
- Cut back on weeds—surface soil stays dry
- Ideal for container gardens, raised garden beds, and indoor planters
Shop now: Pepin Eco-Friendly Self-Watering Ollas
Shop now: Cedar Planters Self-Watering Clay Olla Pot
2. Choose the Right Plants for Summer Heat
Not all plants struggle in high temps—some actually thrive in it. Whether you're growing indoors or outdoors, choosing heat-tolerant, low-maintenance plants can dramatically reduce how often you need to water or fuss over them.
🌿 Best Indoor Plants for Hot Summer Conditions:
- ZZ Plant – Virtually indestructible, handles heat and dry air like a pro.
- Snake Plant – Thrives on neglect and poor humidity—perfect for summer.
- Hoya – Thick, waxy leaves need little watering even in warm conditions.
- Rubber Plant – Loves summer warmth and bright indirect light.
- Jade Plant – Compact and drought-tolerant, ideal for sunny windows.
🌻 Outdoor Heat-Lovers (Perfect for Beds and Containers):
- Lantana – Blooms all summer with little water, attracts pollinators.
- Lavender – Heat-loving and fragrant, great for low-maintenance borders.
- Portulaca – Succulent-like plant with bold blooms that thrive in sun.
- Rosemary – Edible, aromatic, and thrives in dry soil.
- Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) – Wildflower favorite for hot, dry gardens.
💡 Lazy Gardener Pro Tip: Use Natural Shade
Even the toughest sun-loving plants appreciate a break from intense afternoon rays. If you're gardening in containers, hanging baskets, or raised beds, consider placing them near a tree, trellis, or taller heat-tolerant plant to offer dappled or partial shade. This simple shift can reduce heat stress, lower watering frequency, and help roots stay cooler—no extra effort needed.
Pairing this strategy with a self-watering Olla system adds even more peace of mind. And planting in a raised cedar bed improves drainage, keeps roots warmer overnight, and adds a tidy look to your garden or patio.
Need more ideas? Browse our collection of heat-tolerant plants to build your perfect low-effort summer garden. For even more plant picks, check out this comprehensive guide to heat-tolerant plants recommended by the Missouri Botanical Gardens.
3. Mulch to Lock in Moisture and Reduce Weeds
Add a 1–2 inch layer of mulch around your plants to retain moisture and block sunlight from reaching weed seeds. Use shredded bark, straw, or compost for an eco-friendly option. The USDA encourages homeowners to use the highest-quality mulch and avoid cheaper decorative options.
4. Water Less Often—But More Effectively
Skip shallow watering. Give your plants a deep drink every few days to encourage stronger roots. And for the lowest effort? Use Ollas to provide steady hydration without guesswork.
5. Know the Signs of Overwatering
Most plants don’t need daily watering. Common signs of too much water include:
- Leaves turning yellow
- Mushy stems or consistently wet soil
- Fungal spots or leaf spot on foliage
Let the soil feel dry before watering again and consider using an Olla system to regulate moisture naturally.
6. Bonus Tip: Water When It’s Cool
Water early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation and make the most of every drop. Hot midday sun = wasted water.
Want More Summer Plant Hacks?
Explore our curated collection of plant care essentials, including cedar raised beds, drought-tolerant plants, and eco-friendly watering tools. Follow @edsplantshop on Instagram for weekly tips!
Happy growing, and stay cool out there 🌿
