How Do I Put Water on My Plants While on Vacation?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re a plant lover, going on vacation can be a bit of a conundrum. Who will take care of your beloved plants while you’re away?

You may have considered asking a friend or neighbor to water them, but what if they forget or overwater? Luckily, there are several methods you can use to keep your plants hydrated while you’re on vacation. In this article, we’ll go over some tips and tricks for putting water on your plants while you’re away.

1. Self-Watering Containers

One of the easiest ways to keep your plants hydrated while you’re on vacation is by using self-watering containers.

These containers have a reservoir at the bottom that holds water and slowly releases it into the soil as needed. You can purchase self-watering containers at most garden centers or online retailers. Make sure to choose a container that’s appropriate for the size of your plant.

How to use self-watering containers:

  1. Fill the bottom reservoir with water.
  2. Add soil and plant as usual.
  3. Check the water level in the reservoir before leaving for vacation.

2. Water Wick

Another option for keeping your plants hydrated while you’re away is by using a water wick.

A water wick is made up of two parts – a cotton wick and a water source (such as a jar or bowl). The wick is placed in the jar/bowl of water and then inserted into the soil of the plant. The cotton wick will draw up moisture from the water source and distribute it throughout the soil.

How to use a water wick:

  1. Cut a piece of cotton string or fabric about 6-8 inches long.
  2. Place one end of the string/fabric in a jar/bowl of water and let it soak for a few minutes.
  3. Insert the other end of the string/fabric into the soil of the plant.

3. Plastic Bag Method

This method is ideal for smaller plants.

It involves creating a miniature greenhouse by covering the plant with a plastic bag. The moisture from the soil will evaporate and then condense on the inside of the bag, creating a self-watering system.

How to use the plastic bag method:

  1. Water your plant well before leaving for vacation.
  2. Cover the entire plant with a clear plastic bag, making sure not to let the leaves touch the plastic.
  3. Seal off the bottom of the bag with tape or a rubber band to create a mini greenhouse.

4. Watering Spikes

Watering spikes are another option for keeping your plants hydrated while you’re away.

These spikes are designed to slowly release water into the soil over time. You can purchase watering spikes at most garden centers or online retailers.

How to use watering spikes:

  1. Fully water your plant before leaving for vacation.
  2. Insert one end of the spike into a water-filled bottle, and then insert the other end into your plant’s soil.

In Conclusion

Going on vacation doesn’t have to mean neglecting your plants. With these simple methods, you can keep your plants hydrated and healthy while you’re away. Whether you choose self-watering containers, water wicks, plastic bags, or watering spikes, your plants will thank you for it.