How Can I Self Water My House Plants While on Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

Going on vacation is always exciting, but it can be a bit stressful when you have house plants that need regular watering. If you don’t have someone who can water your plants while you’re away, you can still keep them healthy with a few simple tricks. Here are some ways to self-water your house plants while on vacation:

1. Use Self-Watering Planters

Self-watering planters are a great option if you’re going away for a few days or even weeks. These planters have a reservoir at the bottom that holds water, which is then slowly released to the plant’s roots through a wick or other mechanism. You can find self-watering planters at many garden centers and online retailers.

2. Create Your Own Self-Watering System

If you don’t want to buy self-watering planters, you can create your own self-watering system using materials you may already have at home. One option is to use a wine bottle or plastic bottle with holes poked in the lid and placed upside down in the soil. The water will slowly seep out through the holes and into the soil.

3. Group Your Plants Together

Another way to help keep your plants hydrated while you’re away is to group them together in one spot. This creates a more humid environment, which will help prevent your plants from drying out as quickly.

4. Use A Moisture Meter

Investing in a moisture meter can be helpful for ensuring that your plants are getting enough water while you’re away. These meters measure the moisture level of the soil and indicate when it’s time to water again.

5. Take Precautions Before You Leave

Before leaving for vacation, make sure that your plants are well-hydrated by giving them a thorough watering session. You should also remove any dead leaves or flowers, as these can attract pests and disease.

  • Water your plants well before leaving for vacation
  • Remove any dead leaves or flowers
  • Group plants together to create a more humid environment
  • Use self-watering planters or create your own system with a bottle
  • Invest in a moisture meter to ensure your plants are getting enough water

Tips for Choosing the Right Self-Watering Planter

If you decide to go with self-watering planters, here are some tips for choosing the right ones:

1. Size Matters

Make sure that the planter is the appropriate size for your plant. If it’s too small, the reservoir won’t hold enough water to keep your plant hydrated while you’re away.

2. Choose The Right Material

Self-watering planters come in a variety of materials, including plastic, ceramic, and clay. Each material has its own pros and cons, so choose one based on your personal preferences and needs.

3. Consider The Reservoir Size And Shape

The size and shape of the reservoir will determine how much water it can hold and how quickly it will be released to the soil. Make sure that the reservoir is large enough for your plant’s needs and that it releases water slowly enough to prevent overwatering.

In conclusion, there are several ways to keep your house plants hydrated while you’re on vacation. Whether you use self-watering planters or create your own system with a bottle, taking precautions before you leave and investing in a moisture meter can help ensure that your plants stay healthy while you’re away.