What methods are there for heat protection and cooling of flowers in summer?

A balcony facing west or southwest is unfavorable for flower growth at noon and in the afternoon during summer. Sometimes when the midday temperature rises and there is too much water in the pot, root rot occurs very easily. Heat protection measures include building a shade shed with bamboo blinds, or planting some vines around the balcony, such as morning glory, hyacinth bean, and honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), to provide shade. Individual potted flowers can also be temporarily moved indoors to avoid direct sunlight. You can also place some tree bark, eggshells, or small stones on the potting soil. But do not use oil felt or plastic to cover the potting soil.

Besides shading, you should also spray water on the leaf surfaces at noon and in the afternoon, because once liquid water evaporates into gas, it takes the surrounding heat away. Therefore, placing a water basin or water vat beside the potted flowers can also help lower the temperature.

In summer, flower pots can also be placed on tiered stands at different heights. If there is no wooden stand, empty pots can be turned upside down to prop up the potted flowers at different heights, forming a small shady microclimate, which also has a certain cooling effect.