In order for them to thrive and last a long time, plants need regular watering. Water is a vital element that not only keeps plants hydrated, but also transports nutrients from the soil to plant cells. That said, when preparing to travel, the question of watering plants becomes a concern, especially when you have tropical plants that appreciate moisture.

You decide to take a vacation but think about your plants that are at risk of dehydration in your absence! Don’t panic, there is a simple and effective solution that can keep them alive until you return. We tell you everything.

Watering plants even if you go on vacation is possible

To prevent your plants from drying out and keep them hydrated even when you go on vacation, you can use a wool soaked in water.

This tip from grandma consists of placing a container of water high above your pot, for example on a chair. Water the plant first. Then place one end of the wool yarn in the container until it touches the bottom and the other end in the potting soil. The plant can be hydrated thanks to the wool thread that joins the container to the pot.

Note that you can replace the thread with a stretched rope or plastic tube, making sure that the end of the tube touches the bottom of the water container.

What are some other tips for watering plants while we’re away?

To be able to travel with peace of mind knowing that your plants will not lack water, other tips can help you keep them hydrated.

• Water the plants with a drip irrigation system.

Plastic bottles for watering plants. Source: SPM

To install a drip irrigation system, take a large water bottle and unscrew the cap to make a small hole in the center. Then fill the bottle with water, replace the cap, and plant the bottle, upside down, in the ground, near your plants. Please note that you will need a 1.5 L bottle for your potted plants and a 5 L drum for garden or orchard plants. This drip irrigation is an efficient and economical watering method to keep your plants hydrated during your absence. However, it is advisable to install this irrigation a few days before your departure, to check the water flow and make sure that the diameter of the plug hole is adequate.

• Use gel water to water plants during the holidays

Gel water sachets are a good alternative to watering plants. These sachets available at garden centers contain water that has solidified. The gelled water is inserted into the soil. It liquefies slowly and this is what allows the plants to water gradually. You can drop a sachet or two into the soil of your potted plant, depending on your watering needs. Keep in mind that a jelly water sachet can last up to a month.

Plants in green pots. Source: SPM

• Use the clay pebbles to water the plants while we’re away.

Clay pebbles are very beneficial for plants. Placed at the bottom of the pot, they promote drainage and aerate the substrate so that the roots develop better, as well as maintaining the humidity of the soil. That said, before you travel, cover the soil surface of your pots or planters with clay pebbles. They will limit water evaporation and keep the soil moist.

In addition to these tips, there are certain measures to take before traveling. In fact, it is advisable to move indoor plants to the shade, so that the sun does not dry them out, but without depriving them of daylight. You can also keep your plants in a cool place such as the bathroom, as long as it has a window and is bright. Also, with regard to your plants in the garden, think before you go out, about removing weeds and wilted flowers to keep your plants in better health. If you have pots placed outside and can’t move them, it’s a good idea to mulch the soil. Mulching is a natural thermal regulator that helps keep the soil moist and space out waterings.

Thanks to these different tips, your plants won’t run the risk of running out of water or wilting. You will be able to travel with peace of mind.