07/03/2026
Hello Gardeners,
It’s finally summertime and many of us are longing to be able to travel. Whether you are taking a weekend to visit family or an extended vacation at the beach, make sure to have a plan in place for keeping your houseplants watered while you are away.
The more natural light your plant receives, the thirstier it will be over time. Houseplants near a sunny window, compared to those in full shade, will require up to twice the water due to increased evaporation. So, before leaving on your trip, move your plants a bit farther away from the light to the center of the room. Even a plant that requires full sun will be fine in these conditions for a short time.
Upcycle bottles by filling them with water and punching a hole in the bottle top. Turn the filled bottle upside down and stick it deep into the potting soil near the plant’s stem. Make sure the hole is small so the water is released slowly. By using this method your plants will gradually be watered over several days.
Add a layer of mulch or wood chips to the surface of your pots, then give them a good soaking before you leave. This extra insulation will help retain moisture and keep your plants hydrated longer.
A completely different strategy many people are opting for is using low-maintenance plants, such as succulents, in their indoor landscape. Succulent plants store water in their thick, fleshy leaves and seem to thrive on neglect. Many of these plants can happily survive several weeks without being watered.
No one wants to worry about their houseplants while trying to enjoy a much-needed vacation. By making a plan and practicing a few simple steps before departure, you can rest easy and not worry about your houseplants.
Happy Gardening,
Barb
