Anyone have tips for what to do when you’re gone on vacation? In the past I’ve had roommates or someone stop by, but I’m in a new city and don’t know anyone well enough to trust them in my place. I have about 24 plants of various types and sizes. I do have some of those bulbs that you stick in the soil, but I’m not a huge fan. I’ve also considered just drenching them the morning I leave and hope for the best. Help! *photo for attention
do you have a lot that need to be watered frequently? how long will you be gone for? i would say like 80% of plants can handle being a little underwatered
3 LikesAbout half should be fine, but it’s the smaller plants I worry about the most like my polka dot begonia and wendlandii. Also, it’s “surface of the sun” season here in AZ which makes conditions worse. I keep the drapes drawn and use grow lights for this season so my plants don’t shrivel up since I only have southern facing windows.
1 Like oh yeah i feel that here in TX 🫠unfortunately i’m not too sure what’d you’d be able to do for those smaller ones except water them real good the day you leave. maybe you can move them somewhere into the middle of your house so they aren’t getting light from the grow lights and the window? so that they don’t dry out as quick
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Yes, there are several things I do when I go on long trips. Of course, as max says above, some plants are perfectly fine just drying out a little. I’ve also used grow bulbs for some plants which will water the plant slowly over time. I’ve used the cord trick where you put one end of a cotton cord in a basin of water and the other end in the soil, which will slowly wick water as needed. I’ve even filled a bathtub with water and sat some of my plants in it. But the best thing to do is buy some long stakes and big clear plastic bags. You’ll want to enclose the plant in the bag using the stakes as support. Supposedly you’re not supposed to let the plant touch the bag, but I’ve never noticed an issue if it does. Be sure to seal the bag loosely at the bottom to trap the air and moisture. Sit the plant a little away from the windows. This creates a closed environment for the plant and it can be fine for literally months. It will love it, though you might notice a little mold when you eventually take the bag off.
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Does that trick hold true for any kind of plant?
0 Likes Oh no, I’d say only plants that actually need all the moisture, aroids, tropical plants. Maybe even orchids, bromeliads, and hoyas though they might be fine drying out. Definitely wouldn’t use this for succulents or cacti though. Most of them don’t like moisture.
0 LikesOoo! I like this idea! I’m going to try this out on a shorter trip I’m taking in June to see how the 2”-3” pots do. Those are the ones I’m the most concerned about.
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I haven’t tried this, but have seen some plant hobbyists and enthusiasts try having a wick/string in the pot and the other end in a pitcher (to recreate a self watering setup) while they are gone
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Water bulbs?
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