17 Things to Do With Plants When It’s Too Hot to Do Anything Else

Plant Care
By Harris Cole

When the sun is blazing and temperatures soar, it might seem like the best option is to retreat indoors. However, plants offer unique opportunities to enjoy nature without melting in the heat. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a casual plant lover, there are plenty of creative ways to incorporate plants into your life while staying cool. From crafting herbal teas to exploring indoor plant care, these 17 ideas will keep you engaged without breaking a sweat. Discover innovative plant activities that provide both relaxation and a sense of accomplishment during those scorching days.

1. Create a Succulent Terrarium

© Gardening Know How

Terrariums offer a delightful escape into miniature landscapes. With a variety of succulents, you can craft a vibrant ecosystem indoors. Selecting a glass container and arranging these resilient plants can be a soothing experience. Each succulent, with its unique shape, adds character, making your terrarium a personalized masterpiece.

The beauty of succulents lies in their low maintenance, ideal for hot days when outdoor gardening feels daunting. Placed on a windowsill, it brings a touch of nature indoors.

Perfect for plant enthusiasts or beginners, creating a terrarium allows creativity to flourish without the heat.

2. Brew Herbal Iced Tea

© Getty Stewart

Crafting herbal iced tea becomes a refreshing ritual on sweltering days. Start by gathering fresh herbs like mint or lemon balm. Steep them in hot water, then cool down the infusion to create a revitalizing drink.

The aroma of herbs fills the air, offering a sensory retreat from the heat. Flavor combinations are endless, allowing you to experiment until finding the perfect blend.

Sipping your homemade brew on the porch, you enjoy a thirst-quenching, guilt-free indulgence. It’s a simple pleasure that turns an ordinary day into a refreshing experience.

3. Make Pressed Flower Art

© Studio DIY

Pressed flower art transforms blooms into everlasting beauty. By pressing flowers between book pages, you capture their elegance forever.

Arrange these delicate pieces on cards or in frames, crafting personalized gifts or home décor. The process is meditative, inviting tranquility on scorching days.

Each petal tells a story, its vibrant colors a testament to nature’s artistry. This timeless hobby not only preserves blooms but also offers a creative outlet. Embrace the calmness of creating something uniquely yours, a piece that will remind you of nature’s charm throughout the year.

4. Start an Indoor Herb Garden

© Epicurious

Indoor herb gardens bring fresh flavors within arm’s reach. Choose pots that complement your space, then plant herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme.

With little effort, watch these culinary companions thrive. Their lush greenery adds life to your interior, while their scents invigorate your senses. Cooking becomes an aromatic adventure when fresh herbs are at hand.

Perfect for culinary enthusiasts or anyone craving greenery, indoor gardening is a rewarding endeavor. Even on the hottest days, tending to your herbs provides a sense of purpose and a connection to nature.

5. Explore Botanical Illustrations

© Julia Bausenhardt

Botanical illustrations capture the essence of plants through art. Sketching intricate details challenges your observational skills, offering an engaging indoor activity.

Choose a plant that captivates you and start drawing its unique features. The process enhances your appreciation for nature, even when venturing outside seems unbearable.

With each stroke, immerse yourself in a world of creativity and discovery. This artistic pursuit not only refines your skills but also provides a soothing escape from the heat. It’s a perfect way to combine your love for plants and art.

6. Craft Natural Scented Candles

© Hungarican Journey

Creating scented candles with natural elements is both relaxing and rewarding. Begin by selecting plants like lavender or eucalyptus for their fragrances.

Infusing these soothing scents into candles transforms your space into a fragrant haven. Crafting candles offers a tactile pleasure, allowing creativity to blossom.

As the scented wax cools, anticipation builds. Lighting your handmade candle fills the room with an aroma that calms the mind. This project is perfect for those who love DIY crafts and appreciate the gentle ambiance only a candle can provide.

7. Design Plant-Based Jewelry

© Reddit

Plant-based jewelry offers a unique way to wear nature’s elegance. Using real leaves encased in resin, craft accessories that resonate with your style.

Each piece is a snapshot of the natural world, forever captured in wearable art. Designing these pieces allows personal expression, while celebrating the beauty of flora.

This creative process connects you to nature, even on days when the weather keeps you indoors. Wearing your handcrafted jewelry becomes a personal statement, a reminder of nature’s intricate beauty. It’s a perfect blend of art and the natural world.

8. Create a Plant Photo Album

© Visual Wilderness

A plant photo album is a charming way to document your botanical interests. Capture detailed shots of plants during nature walks or garden visits.

Compile these images into an album, creating a visual diary of your plant journey. Each photograph tells a story, capturing seasonal changes and unique characteristics.

It’s an engaging activity that sharpens your photography skills and deepens your appreciation for plants. This project encourages exploration and creativity, offering a meaningful way to spend time with family or friends while learning about the flora around you.

9. Try Plant-Based Cooking

© Love and Lemons

Plant-based cooking is a delicious way to explore new flavors. Start by selecting fresh vegetables and herbs that inspire you. Experiment with recipes that highlight their natural goodness.

Each dish is vibrant and nutritious, offering a healthy alternative to beat the heat. Cooking with plants expands your culinary horizons, inviting creativity into everyday meals.

This endeavor not only nourishes the body but also invigorates the mind. Invite friends or family to join you in this flavorful journey. Together, discover the joy of cooking with nature’s bounty.

10. Build a Vertical Garden

© YouTube

Vertical gardens maximize small spaces, bringing greenery to urban living. Constructing one involves creativity and innovation. Use materials like wooden pallets to design a garden that fits your space.

This project transforms balconies or walls into lush landscapes. Tending to your vertical garden becomes a relaxing routine, providing fresh air and a sense of accomplishment.

It’s perfect for those with limited space but a love for plants. Watching your garden flourish vertically offers a unique perspective on gardening. Even in the hottest weather, this project remains a refreshing venture indoors.

11. Paint Plant Pots

© twelveOeight

Painting plant pots adds a personal touch to your indoor garden. Choose colors and designs that brighten your space and reflect your personality.

This creative endeavor turns ordinary pots into unique art pieces. The process is therapeutic, allowing you to express yourself through color and design.

Your painted pots become lively additions to your home, enhancing the beauty of the plants they hold. It’s a delightful project for families or individuals looking to add a splash of creativity to their green spaces. Enjoy every brushstroke as you craft these personalized treasures.

12. Arrange a Plant Swap

© Sunset Magazine

Plant swaps are a social way to diversify your collection. Gather friends and family to exchange plants, sharing unique varieties and cultivation tips.

It’s a perfect event for those who want to expand their plant family without spending a fortune. The exchange fosters a sense of community among plant lovers.

Each swap introduces new possibilities and friendships, broadening your plant knowledge. Even during hot weather, this indoor activity provides a lively, interactive experience. Celebrate plant diversity and connect with fellow enthusiasts through this fun, collective endeavor.

13. Host a Plant-Themed Movie Night

© The official blog for Giggster | Filming locations and unique venues for film, TV & photo shoots, and events – Giggster

A plant-themed movie night offers relaxation with an educational twist. Select documentaries or films that explore the wonders of the plant world.

Transform your living space into a cozy, plant-filled theater. Arrange snacks that complement the theme, like veggie platters.

This event is perfect for unwinding with friends or family while gaining a deeper appreciation for nature. It’s an opportunity to learn and relax, watching the beauty and complexity of plants unfold on screen. Share the experience with others, and let the world of plants captivate your imagination.

14. Decorate with Dried Flowers

© House of Lilac

Dried flowers offer timeless beauty without the fuss. Incorporate them into your décor for a touch of elegance. Arranging these blooms in vases or wreaths provides an artistic outlet.

Their muted tones add sophistication to any room, celebrating nature’s enduring charm. This low-maintenance activity is perfect for hot days when fresh flowers might wither quickly.

Dried flowers are versatile, enhancing spaces with their unique textures and colors. Create arrangements that express your style, turning your home into a haven of natural beauty. It’s a subtle way to enjoy nature indoors.

15. Try Plant Propagation

© Stauffers of Kissel Hill

Plant propagation is a rewarding endeavor for green thumbs. Start by taking cuttings from your favorite plants. Place them in water or soil, encouraging roots to grow.

Watching new life emerge is an exciting process, offering satisfaction and joy. Even on the hottest days, this indoor activity keeps your plant collection thriving.

Propagation expands your garden without the need for new purchases, making it a budget-friendly hobby. It’s an educational experience that deepens your understanding of plant life cycles. Celebrate growth and renewal with this fulfilling project.

16. Create Plant-Based Skincare

© Lovely Greens

Plant-based skincare harnesses nature’s healing properties. Create your own products using ingredients like aloe vera and lavender.

Experiment with recipes that soothe and nourish the skin, providing a luxurious self-care experience. This DIY approach ensures products are natural and tailored to your needs.

Crafting skincare at home is empowering, allowing you to understand what goes into your regimen. It’s a satisfying indoor activity that blends wellness with creativity. Enjoy the benefits of plant-based skincare, and indulge in homemade pampering sessions that refresh the body and mind.

17. Create a Miniature Zen Garden

© The Home Depot

A miniature Zen garden offers a slice of calm in a bustling world. Imagine arranging tiny bonsai trees and smooth pebbles on a bed of white sand. It’s not just a visual delight; it’s a meditative practice.

Feel the texture of sand as you rake it into soothing patterns. The quiet, repetitive motion brings relaxation and focus.

Enhance your creation with miniature statues or scented candles for a personal touch. This garden is a perfect escape, offering tranquility when the heat outside is too much. Plus, it adds a soothing aesthetic to your living space.