How to Water House Plants on Vacation

Going on vacation is always exciting, but it can be worrying when it comes to taking care of your house plants. Indoor plants need regular watering and care, and leaving them on their own while you're away can lead to irreversible damage. But don't worry, there are several ways to ensure your plants stay hydrated and healthy even while you're away from home.

1. Set up a DIY irrigation system

A DIY irrigation system is an easy and cost-effective solution to keep your plants hydrated. You can create one using materials you probably already have at home: a plastic bottle, a piece of cord, and a pair of scissors. Simply poke a few small holes in the plastic bottle, fill it with water, and thread the cord through the bottle's mouth. Plant the other end of the cord into the soil of your plant, making sure it reaches the roots. The water will slowly drip from the bottle and keep the soil moist.

2. Use a plant nanny

A plant nanny is a ceramic cone that slowly releases water into the soil, keeping plants hydrated for weeks. Simply fill the cone with water, insert it into the soil, and let it do its job. This method is particularly useful if you have several plants as you can spread plant nannies around your home to keep your plants hydrated.

3. Find a plant-sitter

If you have a trusted friend, neighbor or family member who's willing to check on your plants while you're away, you can ask them to come over and water your plants. Explain the watering schedule and show them how to do it properly to ensure your plants get the right amount of water.

4. Create a humidity tray

Indoor plants thrive in humid environments, and creating a humidity tray can help your plants retain moisture in your absence. Fill a shallow tray with pebbles and water, and place your plants on top of the pebbles, making sure the water level is below the top of the pebbles. The evaporation of the water below will create humidity around the plants, and they will absorb the moisture they need.

5. Move your plants to a cooler spot

If you're going away during summer or another hot season, consider moving your plants to a cooler spot in your home, away from direct sunlight. Heat and sunlight can dry out the soil more quickly, so placing your plants in a cooler spot can help them retain moisture for a longer time.

Leaving your house plants unattended during a holiday can be stressful, but with these tips, you can ensure they stay healthy and hydrated while you're away. Whether you set up a DIY irrigation system, use a plant nanny, find a plant-sitter, create a humidity tray, or move your plants to a cooler spot, you can have peace of mind knowing your indoor oasis is in good hands.