Going on vacation, taking a business trip, or having to leave your home for an extended period can cause a dilemma for plant owners: How do you take care of your indoor plants while you’re away? Without proper care, your plants could suffer from dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, or even pest infestations. But with a little preparation, your plants can thrive even in your absence.
In this article, we will explore various strategies to ensure your indoor plants are well-cared for while you’re away, helping you return to a healthy, vibrant garden.
Why Taking Care of Your Plants Is Important
Indoor plants require consistent care to remain healthy, but they are also quite resilient. However, if left without water or light for too long, they can become stressed or damaged. Watering, light, humidity, and temperature play significant roles in the health of your indoor plants, so addressing these factors before you leave is essential.
Additionally, plants that go too long without proper care may attract pests or start to rot, leading to a lot of work when you return. By preparing ahead of time, you can prevent such issues and keep your indoor garden looking great.
Step 1: Watering Techniques for When You’re Away
Watering is one of the most crucial aspects of plant care, and it’s even more critical when you’re leaving for an extended period. Fortunately, there are various methods to ensure your plants get enough water while you’re away.
1. Self-Watering Systems
Self-watering planters are a convenient option for busy plant owners. These planters have a built-in reservoir that automatically releases water into the soil as it dries out. Some self-watering pots also have an indicator to show when it’s time to refill the reservoir.
For plants that need frequent watering, investing in self-watering systems can help maintain consistent moisture levels and reduce the risk of overwatering.
2. Watering Globes or Spikes
Watering globes and spikes are simple tools that release water gradually into the soil. Fill the globe with water, insert it into the soil, and it will release moisture over time, keeping the soil hydrated for several days to weeks. These are a great option for short trips or if you have a small number of plants.
3. DIY Wick System
A DIY wick system is an affordable and effective method to water your plants. You can use a cotton rope or string and place one end in a container of water while the other end is buried in the plant’s soil. The water will slowly travel through the rope and into the soil, providing moisture over time.
This system works well for small to medium-sized plants. Ensure the water container is positioned above the plant, so gravity helps pull the water down.
4. Bottled Water Drip Method
For a low-tech solution, you can use a plastic bottle with small holes punctured in the cap. Fill the bottle with water and then turn it upside down, sticking the bottle into the soil. The water will slowly drip out, keeping the soil moist. This works best for plants with moderate water needs.
Step 2: Light Considerations When You’re Away
While many indoor plants can tolerate low light, they still need some light for healthy growth. Leaving them in the dark for long periods could stunt their growth or lead to poor health.
1. Use Grow Lights
If you’re going to be away for more than a few days, consider investing in grow lights. These lights mimic natural sunlight and can be set on timers to ensure your plants receive the light they need while you’re gone. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and come in various designs, such as hanging lights or tabletop lamps.
Position the grow lights so they shine directly on your plants, and set a timer to ensure they get 10–12 hours of light each day, depending on the plant’s needs.
2. Rearrange Plants Near Windows
If your plants are not already near a window, consider moving them to a spot where they can get as much natural light as possible while you’re away. Place them near south-facing windows for the most sunlight exposure. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, as this could cause the plants to overheat or become scorched.
However, be careful with moving your plants, as it can stress them out. If your plants have been accustomed to a specific light level, try to mimic their usual conditions as closely as possible.
Step 3: Temperature and Humidity Control
Temperature and humidity play an important role in the overall health of your indoor plants. Too high or too low of a temperature can stress your plants, and a lack of humidity can cause them to dry out, especially tropical plants.
1. Maintain Stable Temperatures
Most indoor plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). If your home tends to fluctuate in temperature when you’re away, consider adjusting your thermostat to a constant, moderate level.
Avoid setting your thermostat to extremely high or low temperatures. Extreme heat could cause plants to dry out, while extreme cold could harm plants, especially if there are drafts in your home.
2. Increase Humidity for Tropical Plants
Tropical plants like ferns, orchids, and palms require higher humidity to thrive. If you have plants that need more moisture in the air, here are a few methods to keep the humidity levels up:
- Group Plants Together: Place your plants close together to create a microenvironment with higher humidity. As plants transpire, they release moisture into the air, which can benefit others around them.
- Use Humidifiers: Set up a humidifier in the room where you have your plants. This is especially important if you live in a dry climate or during the winter months when indoor air can be particularly dry.
- Pebble Trays: Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water beneath your plants. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plants. Ensure the plant pots are elevated on the pebbles to prevent them from sitting in water.
Step 4: Reduce Stress by Pruning and Cleaning
Before leaving for your trip, take a few extra steps to ensure your plants are in the best condition possible.
1. Prune Dead or Damaged Leaves
Remove any dead or damaged leaves, flowers, or stems to reduce stress on the plant and prevent pests from taking over. This will also help the plant focus its energy on the healthy parts and prevent mold or rot.
2. Clean Your Plants
Dust and dirt can build up on your plant leaves, blocking sunlight and affecting photosynthesis. Wipe down leaves gently with a damp cloth or use a gentle spray of water to clean them. For plants with large leaves, you can use a soft brush to remove any dust or debris.
3. Check for Pests
Before you leave, do a thorough check for pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or spider mites. If you find any pests, treat the plant with an organic pesticide or a soap solution to prevent them from spreading while you’re gone.
Step 5: Ask for Help
If you’re going to be away for an extended period and your plants need frequent care, consider asking a friend or neighbor to help. Give them clear instructions on how often to water, where to place the plants for light, and any other specific care needs. You can also create a plant care checklist with watering schedules and any necessary actions.
Step 6: Set Up a Smart Plant Care System
For the ultimate convenience, you can set up a smart plant care system. Many smart watering devices allow you to monitor and control your plants’ watering needs from a distance. Some systems even connect to your smartphone, letting you check soil moisture levels and adjust settings remotely.
Additionally, some plant care apps can track the needs of your plants and send reminders for watering or feeding while you’re away.
Conclusion
Taking care of your indoor plants while you’re away doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right preparation and a few smart techniques, you can ensure your plants remain healthy and vibrant until you return. Whether you choose self-watering systems, ask for help, or implement simple watering tricks like wicking systems, your plants will thrive even in your absence. By ensuring your plants receive the right amount of water, light, humidity, and care, you’ll come back to a flourishing indoor garden.
Happy travels—and happy planting!