How to Slow Water Plants When Traveling

As a plant lover, going on vacation can be stressful when thinking about your beloved greenery at home. How can you ensure they are still healthy when you're away? With some proper planning, you can slow the water needs of your plants while traveling, and stop worrying about their welfare. Follow these tips to ensure your green friends are still healthy when you return home.

Choose Dehydrator Resistant Plants

When you are planning to go on a trip, think about your plant collection and choose the ones that are best suited to handle dehydration. Plants such as succulents or cactus are perfect options because they need less water and are adapted to store moisture for extended periods. Other options include plants like aloe vera, jade plant, or snake plant. Limit the number of plants you keep to prevent overuse of water and relaxation when travelling.

Water Plants Before Leaving

Hydrate your soil, so that it remains moist when you're gone. Before you travel, water all your plants well to ensure that they have sufficient moisture to sustain them. Ensure to use a watering system that is not too vigorously favoured, so that your soil does not dry up too quickly. It is advisable to do this a few days before your vacation so that the water has time to soak through the soil and be absorbed by the plants before you go. Consider adding fertilizer to the soil as well so that the plant will have what it needs to get them through your absence.

Use Self-Watering Planters

Self-watering planters are great to use when you are going to be away from home for an extended period. This watering option will alleviate the need for you to have someone come to water your plants. These planters are designed to provide a steady supply of water to your plant roots, through the use of wicking system or reservoirs. It is a good idea to test the self-watering system a couple of weeks before you leave and make any necessary adjustments. Remember to adjust the water as to your plant’s needs accordingly too.

Wrap Plants in Plastic

If you have a small number of plants that can not handle long periods without water, you can wrap them in plastic. Cover the soil and the entire plant with plastic, retaining moisture and humidity, which gives the plant enough time to survive. However, while covering, you should tightly seal the plastic, ensuring enough space for air circulation. It is advisable to do this for a short time though as excess moisture can result in root rot which may kill your plant upon your return.

Get a Plant Sitter

If you have a large collection of plants or are uncertain about leaving them alone for a lengthy period, you may want to consider getting a plant sitter. This will entail getting someone to come in regularly to water your plant collection; you can entrust someone you trust with the keys to your house. You can likewise opt to board your plants with a professional to ensure that your plants are given the necessary attention and care they require when you're away. Most plant sitters possess advanced plant care knowledge and are well-equipped to handle any issues that arise with your plant while you're away.

Conclusion

With proper planning, you can lower the water needs of your plants when traveling, and put your mind at ease while you enjoy your vacation. Remember to choose plants that can handle dehydration, water your plants well ahead of your trip, use self-watering planters, wrap plants in plastic, or hire someone to care for your plant while you're gone. These tips will ensure that you come home to a healthy collection of plants.