How to Water Indoor Plants When Away

Having indoor plants adds a touch of natural beauty to your space. They give your home a fresher and more relaxing ambiance. However, what do you do when you have to be away and cannot provide them with the necessary care and attention? Plants require watering, and it can be challenging to ensure they are adequately hydrated while you're away. Here are some tips to help you water your indoor plants when you're away:

1. Water Your Plants Well Before You Leave

Before leaving, ensure that you have watered your plants adequately. A well-watered plant can stay for some time without water, so this helps to prepare them for your time away. Additionally, do not overwater your plants, or they will likely suffer from root rot or fungal diseases. Overwatering leads to the plant roots suffocating and dying, which can affect the overall health of your plants.

2. Group Your Plants Together

Grouping your plants together helps to create a microclimate within your space. Plants transpire moisture, which allows for increased humidity levels in the air. With more plants together, the process happens much faster, and you can maintain significant humidity levels for a longer time. Additionally, grouping plants together creates an area of shade that helps to regulate sunlight and temperatures, thus keeping your plants cool.

3. Use Self-watering Pots

Self-watering pots can help to keep your plants hydrated for several days, if not weeks. These pots have a reservoir of water that allows the plant to take up the water it needs through capillary action. The water moves up into the soil and provides the moisture the plants require. Some self-watering pots come with a gauge that shows you when the water levels are running low, and some even have an option for nutrient release. These pots are a great investment, especially if you are often away from home.

4. Employ a Plant-sitter

You can also ask a friend or neighbor to water your plants while you are away. This ensures that your plants get the attention they deserve, and you have some peace of mind while you're away. However, try to find someone who has a green thumb and knows how to care for indoor plants properly. Additionally, consider showing them how you usually water your plants, so they do it correctly.

5. Use a Watering Globe

A watering globe is a useful tool that slowly releases water into the soil as it gets dry over time. These globes are made of glass or plastic and have an elongated neck that you insert into the soil. They come in various sizes and can last for several days or even weeks, depending on the size of the globe and plant needs. They are a great choice for busy homeowners who may not have someone to look after their plants while they're away.

6. Invest in a Drip Irrigation System

A drip irrigation system is an automated system that can keep your plants well hydrated while you are away. This system connects to a water source, and water drips into the soil through a series of tubes and pipes. Some systems come with a timer that you can set based on the plant's water needs. This is a great option for those who travel frequently or have several plants that require constant watering.

Conclusion

While leaving your plants behind while you're away can be worrying, these tips can help you ensure that they remain healthy and hydrated. Remember to water them thoroughly before leaving, group them together, use self-watering pots, employ a plant-sitter, use a watering globe or invest in a drip irrigation system. With proper preparation and care, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants, whether you're at home or away.