How to keep your indoor and outdoor plants alive while on holiday

One of the joys of a getaway is the escape from your daily stresses and responsibilities. It is a time to kick up your feet and enjoy all the spoils you worked for throughout the year. 

However, much like those of us with pets, many plant parents find time spent away is tinged with worry at the thought of leaving their plants home alone.

While some plants can survive a few days without water, a plan must be made for others if you’re taking a longer holiday.

The team at GARDENA has put together tips for short and long holidays away. 

TIPS FOR A SHORT BREAK (INDOOR AND POTTED PLANTS)

1. Make sure you water your plants thoroughly before you leave.
2. The more light your plant receives, the more water it needs. Consider moving them away from their natural source of light to help them retain water for longer while you’re away.
3. Most houseplants, especially tropical species, benefit from being grouped together because the plants release moisture into the air around them. This increases the humidity around them to such an extent that no more water can pass from the plant into air, helping them to stay hydrated.
4. Make an improvised irrigator with a plastic water bottle. Poke a few holes in the bottle lid, fill the bottle with water and bury it halfway and upside down in the pot. The water will slowly seep into the soil and keep it saturated. Make sure excess water can drain out of the pot.

TIPS FOR A LONG HOLIDAY (INDOOR, POTTED AND GARDEN PLANTS)

Asking a neighbour or friend to pop in while you’re away is the good old-fashioned way of doing things, but not everyone has this option. Instead, consider an automatic watering solution such as the options listed below.