How Can I Water House Plants When I'm Away

House plants require regular watering to thrive, but what happens when you're away from home for an extended period? How can you ensure that your plants remain hydrated and healthy while you're away? In this article, we'll explore several easy and effective methods that you can use to water your house plants even when you're not around.

1. Employ a Plant Sitter

One option for keeping your house plants watered when you're away is to hire a plant sitter. This could be a friend, family member, or professional plant caretaker who is experienced in tending to plants. You can provide detailed care instructions and even set up a watering schedule to ensure that your plants are properly cared for while you're away. This option is ideal if you have a large collection of plants that require specialized care.

2. Use a Self-Watering Device

A self-watering device is a simple and efficient way to keep your house plants hydrated when you're away. These devices come in various forms, including watering globes, spikes, and wicks, and work by gradually releasing water into the soil over time. They are easy to use and can keep your plants watered for several days to a week, depending on the size and type of plant. Simply fill the device with water, insert it into the soil, and let it do its job.

3. Create a DIY Watering System

If you're handy with tools and have a bit of creativity, you can create your own DIY watering system for your house plants. There are several methods for making a homemade watering system, including using a drip irrigation system, creating a reservoir system, or using a wick system. These systems can be tailored to your specific plants and can be set up to water your plants automatically for several days.

4. Bathtub Soak Method

If you're going away for an extended period and have larger plants that require frequent watering, you can try the bathtub soak method. Simply fill your bathtub with an inch or two of water and place your potted plants in the tub. The plants will soak up the water through the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot, ensuring that the soil remains moist for several days. Just be sure to remove the plants from the tub once you return home to prevent root rot.

5. Ask a Neighbor to Help

If you have a trustworthy neighbor, you can ask them to water your plants while you're away. Provide them with detailed instructions, including the types of plants you have, how often they need to be watered, and any specific care instructions. It's also a good idea to leave a spare key with your neighbor in case they need to access your home to water the plants.

Conclusion

There are several methods you can use to keep your house plants watered when you're away. From simple self-watering devices to elaborate watering systems, there's a solution for every type of plant and situation. Just remember to provide detailed care instructions, test your chosen method before your trip, and always have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. With the right care and attention, your plants can thrive even when you're not around to tend to them.