Watering indoor plants while you're away requires planning to ensure they stay hydrated and healthy. Several simple and effective methods can help maintain adequate moisture levels.
When preparing your plants for your absence, it's beneficial to group your houseplants together. This helps to maintain humidity around the plants, which is particularly important for many common houseplants. Ensuring the potting mix stays moist is key.
Based on common practices and the provided reference, here are a few ways to water your plants while you are away:
Effective Methods for Absentee Watering
1. The Bathtub or Sink Method
This method is practical, especially for a collection of plants. As advised in the reference: “Place plants in the bathtub or laundry sink and fill with a few centimetres of water to allow moisture to be absorbed through the drainage holes,” advises Angie.
- How it works: The plants sit directly in a shallow layer of water. The potting mix will absorb water through the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot via capillary action, keeping the soil moist.
- Preparation: Ensure the tub or sink is clean. Place a towel or mat down first if you're concerned about scratching the surface. Group your plants closely together.
- Duration: This method is typically suitable for being away for several days up to a week, depending on the plant's size, type, and the environmental conditions (light, temperature).
2. Setting Up a Wicking System
The reference mentions setting up a wicking system. This involves using absorbent material to draw water from a reservoir to the plant's soil.
- How it works: A common setup involves placing a water reservoir (like a jar or bottle) next to the plant. A piece of absorbent material (like cotton rope or felt) is placed with one end in the water and the other end buried slightly in the plant's soil. Water travels up the wick into the soil as it dries out.
- Preparation: Ensure the wick material is fully saturated before setting it up. The water reservoir should be large enough for the duration you'll be away.
Other Considerations
- Watering Before Leaving: Thoroughly water your plants right before you leave.
- Location: Move plants away from direct sunlight or heat sources (like radiators) to reduce water loss through evaporation and transpiration. Cooler, less sunny spots are better when you're away.
By utilizing methods like the bathtub soak or a wicking system and taking simple preparatory steps like grouping plants, you can significantly increase their chances of staying hydrated while you are away.
