How to Water Plants When Away

Keeping your plants healthy and alive can become a challenge when you need to leave home for a few days, whether it's for work or vacation. When you're away, you can't depend on someone else to water your plants. Luckily, there are a few methods you can use to keep your plants hydrated and healthy in your absence.

Choose the Right Plants

When you're going to be away from home, it's important to choose plants that are able to endure periods of drought. Some flowers and succulents, like cacti and jade plants, can go for weeks without water. Choose plants that don't need to be watered frequently and are naturally drought-tolerant.

Prepare Your Plants

Before you leave, make sure to give your plants a thorough watering. This will ensure your plants won't suffer from water deprivation while you're gone. Also, remove any dead or yellowing leaves and prune any wilting stems. This will help your plant conserve moisture until you return.

Use Self-Watering Devices

Self-watering devices are a great option to provide your plants with enough water while you're away. These devices consist of a water reservoir that slowly drips water into the soil, keeping it moist for several days. You can use self-watering devices like bottles, globes, or spikes. Depending on the device, they can last from a few days to several weeks.

Set Up a Watering System

If you're planning on being away for a longer period, you can use a watering system to keep your plants hydrated. You can create your own watering system using a timer, tubing, and drip emitters. Connect the tubing to a faucet and place the emitters near the roots of the plants. Set the timer to a schedule that replicates your natural watering routine.

Ask a Friend for Help

If you have a friend or a neighbor who is willing to take care of your plants, then this can be the easiest and most reliable option. Ask your friend to check your plants every few days, and give them specific instructions on how much and when to water the plants. To avoid overwatering, you can use a moisture meter to determine if the soil is too dry before watering.

Conclusion

Keeping your plants alive while you're away requires some preparation and effort. Choosing the right plants, preparing your plants, using self-watering devices, setting up a watering system, or asking a friend for help are all viable options. By following these tips, you can go on vacation or leave for work without worrying about the health of your plants.