Going on vacation is always exciting, but it can be a bit of a hassle if you have plants to take care of at home. You don’t want to come back from your trip to find that your once-lush plants have withered away due to neglect.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure that your plants stay healthy and happy while you’re away. In this article, we’ll go over some tips on what to do with your plants when you go on vacation.
Watering
One of the most important things you’ll need to consider is how your plants will get watered while you’re gone. If you have a friend or neighbor who is willing to come by and water your plants, that’s great!
Make sure they know where all of the plants are located and how much water each one needs. You might also consider leaving a watering schedule or instructions for them.
If you don’t have anyone who can water your plants for you, there are still options. One is to invest in self-watering planters.
These containers have a built-in reservoir that slowly releases water into the soil as needed. Another option is to set up a DIY drip irrigation system using plastic tubing and drip emitters.
Light
Most indoor plants require some amount of light in order to thrive. If you’re going to be gone for more than a few days, it’s important to make sure that your plants will still get enough light while you’re away.
One option is to move them closer to windows or other sources of natural light before you leave. Be sure to check which direction the windows face so that you know how much light they’ll receive throughout the day.
You might also consider investing in grow lights if you don’t already have them. These special lights mimic natural sunlight and can help keep your plants healthy even if they aren’t getting enough natural light.
Temperature
Different plants have different temperature requirements, so it’s important to know what your plants need before you leave. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period of time, it might be a good idea to turn off your air conditioning or heating system to save energy. However, this could potentially harm your plants if they’re in a room that gets too hot or too cold.
If you’re leaving during the summer months, make sure that your plants aren’t in direct sunlight for extended periods of time, as this can cause them to overheat. Similarly, if you’re leaving during the winter months, make sure that your plants aren’t located near drafty windows or doors.
Pruning
Before you leave, take some time to prune any dead or dying leaves from your plants. This will help them conserve energy and stay healthy while you’re away. You might also consider trimming any particularly long stems or branches to prevent them from getting tangled or damaged.
Conclusion
Taking care of your plants while you’re on vacation doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy and happy while you’re away.
Remember: water them properly, give them enough light and the right temperature, and prune them before you go. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that your plants are in good hands.