Planning an end-of-year getaway is exciting, but if you’re like me and a parent to indoor plants, the anticipation is mixed with worry about leaving my plant babies home alone. I proudly care for 45 plants, and the thought of coming home to find some of them dead is unimaginable. While some of my plants can survive a few days without water, I need to make a plan for others if I want to enjoy a longer holiday.
When we leave on a short holiday (less than a week), I will do the following
- We thoroughly water our plants a day or two before we leave, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy.
- We will group the plants together in a shaded area to maintain humidity and reduce water loss.
- All the plants are moved away from direct sunlight to slow water evaporation. Some of my plants get early morning sun, and I will move to the middle of the lounge to protect them.
- All windows will be closed to prevent drafts that can dry out the air.
For those leaving on an extended holiday, I would suggest using some of these self-watering methods
- Self-Watering Pots: Use self-watering pots that release water slowly into the soil.
- Bath Tub Method: Place potted plants in a bathtub or large sink, filling with a few inches of water.
- Wicking Method: Insert a cotton wick into the soil, extending it into a water container. The wick will slowly draw water into the pot.
A simple wicking system is a fantastic solution for keeping your indoor plants hydrated while you’re away. Here’s a simple way to create a basic wicking system for your indoor plants
You will need
- A large container (e.g., a plastic tub, ceramic pot, or baking dish)
- Potted plants
- Cotton rope or shoelace
Instructions
- Fill the container with water. Ensure the water level is below the bottom of the plant pots.
- Take one end of the cotton rope or shoelace and insert it into each plant pot’s soil, ensuring it reaches the bottom.
- The other end of the rope should be submerged in the water-filled container.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Wick: Cotton rope or a shoelace works well.
- Pot Size and Drainage: Ensure your plant pots have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
- Water Quality: Use clean, room-temperature water to avoid mineral buildup and root rot.
- Monitor Your Plants: While a wicking system can help, periodically checking your plants is still important. Look for signs of overwatering or underwatering.
Additional Tips
- Elevate the Water Source: If you have multiple plants, consider elevating the water source (e.g., a tray of water) to improve water flow through the wicks.
- Experiment with Wick Length: The length of the wick can affect how quickly water is absorbed. Adjust the length based on your plant’s specific needs.
When leaving for an extended holiday of more than two weeks, ask a friend or neighbour to check on your plants and maintain their regular watering schedule. While a brief change in routine may not significantly impact your plants, longer periods can lead to issues with low light, humidity, and airflow.
Happy Holidays Friends
Tash & Family