What Do I Do With My Plants When I Go on Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

Going on vacation can be an exciting and much-needed break from the daily routine. However, if you’re a plant parent, leaving your green babies behind can be a source of worry. It’s important to plan ahead and take the necessary steps to ensure your plants stay healthy and happy while you’re away.

1. Watering

Before leaving for your trip, make sure to water your plants thoroughly. This will help them survive for a longer period without water while you’re away. If you have plants that require frequent watering, consider setting up an automatic watering system or asking a friend or neighbor to come over and water them.

Pro tip: If you have potted plants, place them in a tray filled with water so that they can soak up the moisture as needed.

2. Light

Plants require light for their growth and survival. If you’re going on vacation during the summer months, it’s best to move your plants away from direct sunlight as it may scorch their leaves. Instead, place them in a well-lit spot where they can receive indirect sunlight.

If you’re going on vacation during the winter months, make sure to place your plants near a window that receives maximum sunlight throughout the day.

3. Temperature

Most indoor plants prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Before leaving for your trip, make sure to adjust your thermostat accordingly so that the temperature remains within this range.

Pro tip: If you have sensitive plants such as succulents or cacti, it’s best to move them away from any source of heat or cold drafts.

4. Pruning

Before leaving for your trip, prune any dead or yellow leaves from your plants. This will not only make them look more attractive but also help them conserve energy.

Pro tip: If you have plants that tend to grow quickly, consider giving them a trim before leaving so that they don’t become too unwieldy while you’re away.

5. Humidity

Plants thrive in a humid environment. If you live in a dry climate, consider investing in a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plants. This will help maintain the humidity levels and keep your plants healthy.

Pro tip: If you have ferns or other moisture-loving plants, mist them with water before leaving so that they can stay hydrated.

  • Conclusion

Leaving your plants behind while you go on vacation can be stressful, but with proper planning and care, you can ensure their well-being. Watering your plants before leaving, adjusting the light and temperature settings, pruning any dead leaves, and maintaining the humidity levels are all important steps to take. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about the health of your green babies!