Away for the Holidays? Use These Tips to Ensure You Return to Happy & Healthy Plants!

How to Keep Your Plants Watered and Healthy While You’re Away for the Holidays

Planning to be away from home this Christmas season??
Whether you're away for a weekend or a couple of weeks, here are some effective strategies to ensure your plants remain happy and hydrated while you're gone!

1. Water Thoroughly Before You Leave
Before heading out on your vacay, give your plants a deep watering. Ensure the soil is fully saturated throughout, but not waterlogged. Always allow excess water to drain completely.

2. Group Plants Together
Placing plants close together can create a mini greenhouse effect by trapping humidity. This works especially well for houseplants that thrive in moisture-rich environments.

3. Use Self-Watering Pots or Inserts
Invest in self-watering pots or inserts, which come with a built-in reservoir to keep the soil consistently moist. These are ideal for frequent travelers.

4. Set Up a DIY Watering System
There are several DIY solutions you can create with materials you already have:
- Plastic Bottle Drip System:
Fill a plastic bottle with water, poke small holes in the cap, and bury it upside down in the soil. The water will slowly seep out as needed.
- String Wick System:
Place a container of water near your plants and use a cotton string to connect the water source to the soil. The string will act as a wick, drawing water into the pot. *This one especially benefits from a test before leaving! Not all wick or string will be as absorbent as you might need. 

5. Move Plants Out of Direct Sunlight
For plants that don’t require full sun, move them to a spot with indirect light to slow down water loss. Be mindful of the needs of each species when relocating them.

6. Ask a Neighbor, Friend or Family for Help
If you’re comfortable, ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to water your plants while you’re away. Leave clear instructions tailored to each plant’s needs.

7. Try a Plant-Sitting Service
For larger collections or valuable plants, consider hiring a professional plant sitter. These services ensure your plants receive expert care, including watering, pruning, and pest checks. More of these services are popping up now!

It's Always a Good Idea to Test Your Methods in Advance!
If possible, test your chosen method a week or two before leaving to ensure it works well for your plants. This gives you time to troubleshoot any issues.

With a little preparation, you can enjoy your holiday travels knowing your plant babies are well-cared for.
Happy holidays, and here’s to returning home to thriving greenery!

xx Planted Goods