How To Water Plants While Away: Plant Proper’s Tips for Happy Houseplants

At Plant Proper, we believe that keeping your houseplants happy and healthy is a top priority, even when life takes you away from home. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you can ensure your leafy friends stay hydrated and thriving. In this guide, we’ll share some creative and effective methods to water your plants while you’re away.

1. Relocate to a Shady Spot

One of the simplest ways to reduce your plants’ water needs while you’re away is to move them to a shadier area. Here’s how to do it right:

• Choose a Suitable Location: Find a spot in your home that receives indirect or filtered sunlight. This will help reduce the rate of water evaporation from the soil.
• Group Your Plants: Place your plants together. Grouping them creates a mini microclimate of higher humidity, helping them stay hydrated longer.
• Water Before You Go: Give your plants a thorough watering before leaving. Be sure not to leave them sitting in standing water, though. Empty saucers to prevent root rot.

2. Create Your Own Self-Watering System

If you’re looking for a more hands-off approach, consider making a DIY self-watering system for 

your plants. It’s easier than you might think:

• Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a water bottle, a drinking straw, and some potting soil.
• Prepare the Straw: Trim the drinking straw to a length that allows it to reach the bottom of your plant’s pot comfortably.
• Insert the Straw: Carefully insert one end of the straw into the soil, near the plant’s roots. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.
• Fill the Bottle: Fill a water bottle with clean, room-temperature water.
• Connect the Straw: Insert the other end of the straw into the water bottle. Ensure it’s a snug fit to prevent water leakage.
• Monitor the Flow: As the soil dries out, it will draw water up through the straw from the bottle. This provides a steady, slow supply of moisture to your plant.

3. Experiment with Hydrospikes

Hydrospikes are another convenient option for keeping your plants hydrated. These devices can be easily found at gardening supply stores. Here’s how they work:

• Purchase Hydrospikes: Acquire hydrospikes that are suitable for your pot size and plant type. These typically come with a spike that goes into the soil and a water reservoir.
• Insert the Spike: Place the spike into the soil near your plant, making sure it’s secure.
• Fill the Reservoir: Fill the hydrospike’s water reservoir with clean water. You can also add liquid fertilizer to the water for added nutrition.
• Adjust as Needed: Depending on the size of the reservoir and your plant’s water needs, you may need to experiment with the water level to find the right balance.
• Monitor and Refill: Check the water level in the reservoir regularly. Refill it as needed to ensure a continuous water supply.

By utilizing these techniques, you can head out on your adventures without worrying about your beloved houseplants. When you return, you’ll find them as happy and healthy as ever.

Plant Proper’s Pro Tip: Before implementing any of these methods, be sure to give your plants a good watering and check their moisture levels. This will help them stay hydrated during your absence.

At Plant Proper, we’re committed to helping you care for your houseplants with ease. Visit our shop today to explore our wide selection of healthy and happy plants that can brighten up your home, whether you’re there or away! Happy planting!