Going on vacation can be exciting, but it can also cause stress when you’re worried about the wellbeing of your houseplants while you’re away. With some planning and preparation though, you can help ensure your plants are happy and healthy when you return. Here are 5 expert tips to keep your plants alive while you’re on vacation:
Set Them Up With Adequate Light
Light is critical for plants to photosynthesize and thrive. Before leaving, assess the light needs of each plant and make adjustments so they’ll have sufficient brightness while you’re gone. For low light plants, draw blinds or curtains to filter light. Move high light plants right up to bright sunny windows. Consider supplementing with grow lights on timers too.
Provide A Deep Watering
The number one thing plants need to stay alive is adequate water. Prior to departing, give each plant a deep, saturating watering. This will hydrate the roots and help the soil retain moisture while you’re away. For potted plants, water until it drains freely from the bottom to ensure the whole root zone is watered.
Increase Humidity
Many common houseplants come from tropical environments and appreciate high humidity. Low humidity can cause leaves to dry out and brown edges. Boost moisture by misting plants, placing them on pebble trays with water, or grouping plants together. A humidifier on a timer also works great.
Set Up Self-Watering Mechanisms
Depending on how long you’ll be gone, you may need to arrange self-watering systems for your plants. Wicking systems that draw water up from a reservoir are low-tech and effective. Drip irrigation on a timer provides consistent watering. Smart planters can also automatically dispense water as needed.
Choose Durable, Low Maintenance Plants
When preparing for vacation, pick hardy plants that can handle inconsistent watering and lower light. Succulents, pothos, zz plant, sansevieria, and philodendron are some good options. Avoid finicky plants like ferns, orchids, and calatheas which need more specialized care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caring for Plants While on Vacation
How often should I water plants before vacation?
- Give your plants a thorough watering 1-2 days before leaving. This will saturate the soil and help retain moisture while you’re gone. Check that excess water drains out the bottom.
Should I mist plants before vacation?
- Misting isn’t necessary but can boost humidity right before leaving. Make sure to water properly at soil level as misting only temporarily hydrates leaves.
What’s the best way to water plants while away?
- Self-watering systems like wicking ropes, drip irrigation, or automatic waterers are great for watering while away. Ask a plant-sitter to water at soil-level every 7-10 days.
How much light do plants need when I’m not home?
- Assess each plant’s light needs before leaving. Place low light plants farther from windows, keep high light plants right at bright windowsills. Use grow lights to supplement.
Can I just turn off AC/heat when I’m away?
- Keeping the temperature and humidity stable is better than shutting off AC/heat. Use timers or smart thermostats to maintain ideal conditions.
Should I mist and water plants right when I get home?
- When you return, give plants a thorough, deep watering at soil level before misting. Misting first can shock leaves if the plant is very dry.
Conclusion
Caring for your plants while you’re on vacation takes some preparation but it is very doable. Assess each plant’s needs, provide deep watering, increase humidity, set up self-watering systems, and choose durable plants. With these tips, you can relax and enjoy your vacation knowing your plants are happy back home! Proper planning will keep your plants alive so you can come home to a lush, thriving indoor garden.