How To Water Houseplants While Away

The Holiday Houseplant Care Guide

Going on holiday can be stressful for plant parents, but with the right preparation, your houseplants can stay healthy and hydrated while you're away.

Follow this blog to keep your plants thriving during your absence.

Contents

1. Preparing Your Houseplants Before You Leave

2. Watering Solutions for Short Trips

3. Watering Solutions for Longer Vacations

4. Plants That Can Go Longer Without Water

5. Post-Holiday Plant Care

1. Preparing Your Houseplants Before You Leave

Before you head off, there are a few steps you can take to ensure your plants are well-prepared for your time away:

Water Thoroughly:

Give your plants a good soak the day before you leave, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Remove Dead Leaves and Flowers:

Trimming dead leaves and blooms reduces the plant’s need for water and keeps it looking tidy.

Relocate Plants:

Move plants away from direct sunlight, which can dry them out faster. Consider placing them in a room with indirect light to reduce water evaporation.

2. Watering Solutions for Short Trips (Under a Week)

For shorter trips, a simple adjustment to your watering routine should suffice:

Self-Watering Pots:

These are designed to provide a slow, consistent supply of water to the plant's roots. Fill the reservoir before you leave, and the pot will do the rest.

Watering Globes or Spikes:

These tools release water slowly over time. Simply insert the spike into the soil and fill it with water, allowing your plant to drink as needed.

3. Watering Solutions for Longer Vacations (More than a Week)

If you're away for a longer period, you might need a more robust solution to ensure your plants don’t dry out: 

Capillary Matting:

Lay a capillary mat or towel underneath your plants. Soak the mat in water and place one end in a water source (like a tray or shallow dish), allowing it to wick moisture to the plants over time.

DIY Wick System:

Insert a cotton rope or strip of cloth into the soil and place the other end in a large container of water. The water will travel up the wick to keep the soil moist.

Grouping Plants Together:

Cluster your plants in one area, creating a micro-humid environment. Placing bowls of water nearby can help raise humidity, reducing the plants' water requirements.

4. Plants That Can Go Longer Without Water

Some houseplants are more drought-tolerant, meaning they can survive longer without water while you're away:

Succulents and Cacti:

These plants store water in their leaves and stems, making them ideal for longer absences.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria):

This low-maintenance plant can go several weeks without water and thrives in various light conditions.

Zanzibar Gem (ZZ Plant):

Known for its thick, waxy leaves, the ZZ plant is extremely drought-tolerant and can handle extended periods of neglect.

5. Post-Holiday Plant Care

Once you're back, give your plants some TLC to ensure they bounce back:

Check Soil Moisture:

Avoid overwatering as soon as you return. Instead, check the soil's moisture levels and water only if the soil is dry.

Gradual Light Adjustment:

If you moved your plants out of direct light before leaving, ease them back into their normal light conditions to prevent shock.

Monitor for Stress:

Look for signs of dehydration or overwatering, such as yellowing leaves, drooping, or wilting, and adjust care accordingly.

Conclusion

With proper planning and the right watering solutions, your houseplants can stay healthy while you enjoy your holiday.

Whether you're gone for a few days or several weeks, there's a strategy that will work for your plants, ensuring they greet you happily when you return.