How to Water Plants When You Go on Vacation
First of all, potted plants should be taken care of so that they are not exposed to strong sunlight and do not dry out. All plants in pots, boxes and other containers placed on terraces and other places in summer require more attention. If left in a sunny place for a long period without watering, they will certainly dry out and die.
Please note! Each plant is individual and requires a special approach to care during our absence. Protecting a potted plant means knowing exactly what it needs for water and sunlight. It is important to make the appropriate preparations before leaving so that the plants can survive this time safely and healthily.
One of the most important aspects of caring for plants while we are away is to provide them with the right amount of water. Proper watering of potted plants is the most important thing. Before leaving, it is worth checking whether there is enough water in the pot of each houseplant. Water indoor flowers immediately before leaving so that they have the right amount of water.
This rule applies to plants that can withstand partial drying out or a period of not being regularly watered for a short period. For example, cacti or succulents are simply watered before and after returning from vacation. If plants require frequent watering and we are going to be away for a long time, it is necessary to solve the drought problem correctly.
Additional information! Watering potted plants with a “reserve” and pouring water into saucers is not a good idea. The sensitive roots of some plants may begin to rot. This procedure can lead to the fact that species that do not like too much moisture can dry out or, worst of all, rot.
So what should we do with our plants when we go on holiday? There are various water-saving methods we can use, such as placing potted plants in a large pot of water. Of course, you should read here whether the plants tolerate wet soil. If not, then placing the pot in a container of water is not an option, as excess water in plants can cause root rot in some species.
Pour water into the bottom of a flat large container, then add expanded clay, place the plants in the created area. Thanks to the evaporating water, the air around will be constantly humidified.
Automatic watering of plants during vacation. You can use a dripper that gradually releases water into the soil. It is easy to make, and thanks to it, the plants do not need to be watered for up to two weeks. Drip watering for indoor plants during vacation involves using plastic bottles.
Quick and easy drip irrigation systems will dispense the required water appropriately if you make special holes in a bottle filled with water or in its lid and place it in the ground. Make sure that the water does not flow out too quickly or too slowly.
Place the plants in the right place
It is very important to protect potted plants during our absence. First of all, it would be wise to move the plants to a place where they will not be exposed to bright sunlight. Place them in the back of the room, preferably in slightly shaded areas, if possible, move the flowers to a cooler place. Plants that need frequent watering are best placed in a bathtub.
We do exactly the same with flowers on the balcony and terrace. Air circulation is also important. The temperature can rise, especially in sunny and unventilated rooms. Therefore, it is worth leaving the doors to the rooms open.
Please note! If we travel often or forget about caring for plants, it is worth choosing plants that are less demanding and more resistant, such as succulents or cacti. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about the plants during your vacation. More resistant species cope better without care even for longer periods, so the survival of the plants will not be such a problem.
To provide the plants with a suitable microclimate during the trip, it is worth placing them close to each other, preferably in a slightly shaded and cooler room. The optimal temperature is -18℃, but it is worth checking what temperature requirements the given plant has.
New way to preserve moisture in the substrate
Watering balls for plants
Transparent, shatterproof irrigation balls are a great and practical solution for watering flowers and potted plants. They are ideal for travelers and those who forget to water their plants regularly.
Pour water into such a ball and put it in a pot. Water slowly flows out of them and moistens the soil. The dispenser will provide constant soil moisture during any long absence from home, and will also help keep the flowers in good condition if you forget to water them.
Garden hydrogels
Modern garden hydrogels can also be used to maintain soil moisture, as they store water due to their structure and properties. Crystals retain moisture and gradually release it into the soil as it dries. Hydrogel prevents plants from wilting and drying out, and reduces the frequency of watering, ensuring constant sufficient moisture. It is also a storage of nutrients that plants can absorb at the right time.
Make holes in the soil in the pot and pour the preparation into them, then fill with substrate. Water the plant generously. Hydrogel is perfect not only for growing plants in an apartment, but also on a balcony and in the garden.
When you return from vacation, carefully inspect your potted plants. Remove dried or rotten leaves, assess the condition of the roots and substrate. Add fertilizer or vermicompost, which will make potted plants regenerate and grow faster.
