ADVERTISEMENT
nt sitter knows how to spot signs of overwatering or underwatering.
5. Set Up a Humidity Tray
If you have plants that love humidity, such as ferns or orchids, you can create a humidity tray to mimic the effects of a humid environment. Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water underneath your plants. As the water evaporates, it will create moisture around the plant, helping to keep the air around it more humid.
- Tip: Make sure the plants’ pots are elevated on the pebbles so they don’t sit directly in the water, which could lead to root rot.
6. Adjust the Lighting
Indoor plants need sunlight, but you don’t want them to dry out while you’re away. Move plants away from direct sunlight if you’re going to be gone for a while, and place them in areas where they’ll receive indirect light. This will help reduce water loss through evaporation.
- Tip: If you have plants that thrive on low light (like snake plants or pothos), move them into a slightly dimmer spot to further conserve moisture.
7. Mulch Your Plants
Adding a layer of mulch on top of the soil helps retain moisture and keeps the soil temperature stable. You can use organic mulch such as shredded leaves, grass clippings, or even small pebbles. Mulching helps reduce evaporation and ensures your plants stay hydrated for a longer period.
- Tip: Make sure not to over-mulch—just a thin layer (about an inch) is sufficient for moisture retention without suffocating the roots.
8. Trim Back Excess Growth
Before you head out on vacation, trim back any excessive growth on your plants. Removing dead or overgrown leaves can help conserve energy and reduce the demand for water while you’re away. This is especially important for plants that tend to sprawl or have long vines, as they can sometimes take up more water than necessary.
- Tip: For plants like succulents or cacti, trimming off dead leaves can improve air circulation around the plant, helping it stay healthier during your absence.
🌱 Final Thoughts: Leave for Vacation with Confidence
By taking these simple, yet effective steps, you can ensure that your indoor plants thrive while you’re away on vacation. Whether you set up an automatic watering system, hire a plant sitter, or use DIY methods like wicking systems or humidity trays, your plants will be well cared for, and you can enjoy your time away with peace of mind.
Do you have any favorite plant care tricks for vacations? Share them with us in the comments below, and happy traveling!
Would you like a printable checklist for preparing your plants for vacation? Let me know!
