We all know the feeling – you've been looking forward to your vacation for weeks, if not months. But there's one nagging thought at the back of your mind: what will happen to my plants while I'm gone?
Don't worry, we're here to help. With a few simple tips, you can make sure your plants stay healthy and happy while you're away from home.
Choose the right plants
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Not all plants are created equal when it comes to surviving a vacation. If you're going to be gone for more than a week, it's best to choose plants that are low-maintenance and can tolerate some neglect. Succulents, cacti, and air plants are all good options.
Additionally, choose plants that don't mind being in the dark. Many houseplants do just fine without much sunlight, so they won't suffer if you forget to open the blinds while you're away.
Water before you go
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Make sure your plants are well-watered before you leave on vacation. This will help them survive any potential drought while you're away.
There are a few things to consider when watering your plants before vacation:
- How often to water: This depends on the plant species and the size of the pot. A general rule of thumb is to water once a week for small pots, and twice a week for large pots.
- How much water to use: Again, this depends on the plant species and the size of the pot.
- Fertilizer: It's a good idea to fertilize your plants before you leave on vacation, as they will need the extra nutrients while you're away.
Group your plants together
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If possible, group your plants together before you go.
This may seem counterintuitive, but grouping your plants together actually helps them retain moisture better than if they were spread out. When plants are close together, they create a microclimate that traps humidity and prevents evaporation.
So, if you're going to be gone for more than a couple of days, consider grouping your plants together before you go.
Set up a self-watering system
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A self-watering system is one of the best ways to make sure your plants get the water they need while you're gone.
There are a variety of self-watering systems available on the market, but one of the most popular is the drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation systems work by slowly dripping water onto the roots of your plants. This method of watering is extremely efficient and can help to reduce water waste.
Another popular self-watering system is the wicking bed. Wicking beds are filled with a porous material that absorbs water like a sponge. The material then wicks the water up to the roots of the plants, keeping them hydrated.
If you're looking for a more low-maintenance option, consider a self-watering pot. These pots have a built-in reservoir that holds water and releases it as needed to keep your plant watered.
No matter which self-watering system you choose, it's important to remember to empty the reservoirs before you leave on vacation. Otherwise, you run the risk of overwatering your plants and causing them to drown.
Tweak your indoor temperature
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It can be a challenge to keep your plants alive when you're away on vacation, but there are a few things you can do to help them out. One of the most important things is to adjust your indoor temperature.
First, take a look at your plants and see if they're heat-loving or cold-loving. This will determine what temperature you need to set your thermostat at while you're gone. If you have a mix of both, try to find a happy medium.
Use a plant sitter
A plant sitter is someone who will come to your home while you're away and take care of your plants. They'll water them, fertilize them, and make sure they're getting the sunlight they need. In other words, they'll do everything necessary to keep your plants healthy and happy.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a plant sitter. First, you'll want to make sure they're reliable and trustworthy. After all, you're giving them the keys to your home and entrusting them with your plants.
Second, you'll want to choose someone who's knowledgeable about plants. A good plant sitter will know how often to water each type of plant and what kind of fertilizer it needs. They should also be familiar with common pests and diseases so they can address any problems that arise.
Finally, you'll want to select a plant sitter who's willing to work within your budget. Keep in mind that plant sitters typically charge by the hour or by the day, so be sure to discuss pricing upfront.
In Summary
Now that you know how to take care of your plants while you're away on vacation, it's time to get packing! And don't forget to enjoy yourself – you've earned it. Have any tips or tricks of your own? Let us know in the comments below and help out your fellow plant-lovers.