As Plant Moms, we often find ourselves torn between our love for our indoor plants and the desire to take a break from the daily routine. While it’s understandable that we want to ensure our plant babies receive the care they need while we’re away, it’s also essential to prioritize our own well-being and take time off when needed. Before embarking on your vacation, consider implementing a system that ensures the health and vitality of your plants during your absence. This might seem daunting at first, but with some preparation and planning, you can confidently leave your potted plants in the care of others or automated systems. It’s not about abandoning your plants, but rather finding a balance between nurturing them and taking time for yourself. With the right approach, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about your beloved houseplants.
Days Leading Up To Your Departure
When embarking on a trip, it’s easy to overlook the finer details, such as making arrangements for pets and tending to your houseplants. As a diligent plant parent, you’ve grown accustomed to caring for your green friends daily, and the thought of leaving them unattended can be daunting. Fear not, as these travel tips for houseplants will provide the peace of mind you need to hit the road guilt-free.
Get an idea of how each plant is going to react with not having 24/7 care
While some desert-dwelling plants can survive with minimal watering, others may not thrive without their regular hydration schedule. As you know your plants best, consider how they fit into the typical categories. For instance, those that are slightly more finicky might require a little extra attention before being left unwatered for an extended period. By acknowledging each plant’s unique needs, you can better ensure their well-being and health.
Separate each plant by their lifestyles
As you prepare to leave your plants unattended, it’s crucial to prioritize their well-being by identifying those that will thrive without constant care and relocating them to a suitable environment. Those in dire need of extra attention should be moved to a location with conditions tailored to their specific requirements. This might involve transferring them to a room with controlled humidity, such as your bedroom, or one with consistent indirect sunlight. Others may benefit from the dry, sunny conditions found in your kitchen. Consider each plant’s individual needs regarding light exposure – do they prefer partial shade, full sun, or no natural light at all? Since you likely didn’t acquire these plants with the intention of abandoning them, take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with their specific sunlight requirements and develop a suitable plan for their care while you’re away. Additionally, consider investing in self-watering bulbs or globes for plants that demand daily watering. These innovative tools allow roots to regulate water intake, preventing overwatering while still providing the necessary moisture. Alternatively, repurpose plastic bottles as makeshift self-watering devices, ensuring your plants receive the right amount of hydration without compromising drainage – a fundamental principle every plant parent should uphold.
Dry them out a little
Before departing, it’s essential to prepare your succulents’ soil and roots by gradually reducing watering over a few days. This allows you to give them a hearty soaking on the day you leave, which will last for at least a few days without needing additional water. Be cautious not to overwater! If your pot features drainage holes, place a tray underneath to prevent water from accumulating. Additionally, consider using drip trays to protect both the plant’s surface and surrounding areas. For succulents that require bottom watering, a simple way to achieve this is by submerging the pot in a few inches of water. This low-maintenance approach makes it easier to keep your succulents thriving even when you’re away for an extended period. In fact, succulents’ natural ability to tolerate drying out makes them an excellent choice for busy individuals who like to take long weekend getaways or longer vacations, as they can be easily cared for by a trusted friend or family member. Similar plants, such as ZZ plants and snake plants, also share this characteristic, making them suitable options for those who frequently travel.
As You Are Leaving to go Away
As you bid farewell to your lush indoor foliage and make a hasty exit with your partner, it’s essential to take care of a few final details to ensure the well-being of your green companions. With the thought of leaving your plant babies behind, it’s natural to want to guarantee their survival during your vacation. Here, consider addressing any lingering tasks or preparations that will keep your indoor plants thriving in your absence.
Move all plants away from intense sunny spots or heat vents
When planning your departure, consider taking the extra step to ensure the well-being of your potted plants. Two weeks can be a long time for them, and neglecting their needs might result in wilted or worse, deceased plants upon your return. To avoid this, make sure they’re placed away from heat vents and protect them from extreme temperature fluctuations caused by hot weather or cold snaps. This is especially crucial if you have plants that are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and light. Even if some plants thrive in the absence of direct sunlight, others may require it to stay healthy. Take the time to rearrange your home’s layout to provide optimal lighting for all your plants, keeping in mind that some succulents can be quite forgiving when it comes to their specific needs.
Get creative
In arid environments, maintaining optimal humidity for certain plants can be a challenge. However, with a little creativity, you can create a miniaturized greenhouse effect to provide the necessary moisture. One effective method is to recreate a humid microclimate around your plant. Start by watering its roots and soil, then place it in the center of a clear plastic bag or trash bag. Cut a hole at the top for ventilation and secure it with tape or string to prevent it from falling off. Voila! You’ve created a DIY mini-greenhouse that can help plants thrive in dry conditions. For added guidance, numerous YouTube tutorials are available, providing step-by-step instructions on how to construct this simple yet effective solution.
Wicking isn’t tricky
When it comes to keeping your potted plants thriving while you’re away on vacation, there are a few clever tricks up your sleeve. One such technique is water wicking, which requires a large vase or bucket, some cotton rope or clothesline, and a bit of patience. Begin by cutting a length of the wicking material that will fit comfortably between the bottom of your container and the soil of your plant. Then, push one end of the rope several inches below the surface of the soil, taking care not to disturb any roots. Next, place the other end of the rope in the water container, making sure it touches the bottom, and fill with water. As you leave for your trip, rest assured that the wicking rope will slowly draw moisture from the container into the pot, keeping your plants’ soil consistently moist.Of course, not everyone may be as fortunate as those with a green thumb in their lives. In these cases, consider recruiting a plant sitter to tend to your foliage while you’re away. A trusted friend or family member who’s enthusiastic about plant care can stop by a few times a week to water, prune, and offer the attention your plants crave. This way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your indoor plants are receiving the TLC they need, even when you’re not around.
