Heading out of town? Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a two-week escape, one big question lingers: what about the plants? The good news is, with a little preparation, your indoor jungle can survive (and even thrive) while you’re away.
In this guide, you’ll learn smart, low-stress ways to prep your plants for your absence — from DIY watering hacks to light strategies and plant-sitter tips.
Step 1: Know Your Plants’ Watering Needs
Different plants have different tolerance levels.
🪴 Plants that can go 1–2 weeks without water:
- Snake Plant
- ZZ Plant
- Cacti
- Succulents
- Rubber Plant
💦 Plants that may need care every 3–5 days:
- Peace Lily
- Calathea
- Ferns
- Herbs
- Spider Plant
Group your plants by need so you can plan the right support system.
Step 2: Water Well Before You Leave
Give your plants a deep drink the day before you leave.
Watering tips:
- Water until it runs from the drainage hole
- Let excess water drain completely
- Avoid overwatering — soggy roots can rot
- For thirsty plants, place a saucer under the pot to retain some moisture
Pro Tip: Add a layer of mulch, moss, or pebbles on top of the soil to help retain moisture longer.
Step 3: Move Plants Away from Direct Sunlight
Lower light = less evaporation.
- Shift plants a few feet away from south- or west-facing windows
- Keep them in bright, indirect light if possible
- Close sheer curtains to reduce heat and light stress
This helps slow down water loss while you’re away.
Step 4: Create DIY Self-Watering Systems
These easy methods can keep your plants hydrated — no sitter required.
🧵 1. Wick Watering
- Place one end of a cotton rope or thick string into a jar of water
- Stick the other end several inches deep into the plant’s soil
- The wick will draw water gradually
Perfect for medium plants or herbs.
🍼 2. Water Bottle Method
- Fill a clean plastic bottle with water
- Quickly flip it and push the neck into the soil (poke a hole in the cap for slower release)
- Water seeps out slowly over time
Great for larger pots or longer trips.
🧽 3. Water Tray + Towel
- Line a shallow tray with a folded towel
- Soak the towel with water
- Set potted plants on top — water wicks up through the drainage holes
Best for short trips and smaller plants.
🧺 4. Bathtub or Sink Setup
- Line the tub or sink with a towel
- Add 1–2 inches of water
- Place plants with drainage holes on the towel (no standing water touching pots)
- Cover with a shower curtain or sheet to trap humidity
Only use this for plants that like moisture and won’t get root rot.
Step 5: Boost Humidity Before You Go
Indoor air dries out quickly — especially with heating or AC running.
How to help:
- Group plants together (they create a shared humid microclimate)
- Place trays of water nearby
- Mist the plants just before leaving (for those that like it)
- Cover very sensitive plants with a clear plastic bag — poke holes for airflow
This works best for ferns, calatheas, and other humidity lovers.
Step 6: Consider a Plant Sitter (If You’ll Be Gone 7+ Days)
If you have high-maintenance or rare plants, a friend or neighbor can be a lifesaver.
Make it easy:
- Leave written or printed instructions
- Group plants in one location for convenience
- Pre-measure water in bottles or cups
- Offer a thank-you gift — maybe a cutting or plant of their own!
Step 7: Post-Trip Plant Care
Once you’re back:
- Check soil moisture — don’t water automatically
- Remove any yellow or wilted leaves
- Mist or rinse off dusty foliage
- Give plants a day or two to re-adjust before fertilizing
- Don’t panic if a few leaves dropped — it’s normal after a little stress
Peace of Mind for Plant Parents
Vacations are for relaxing — and with the right prep, you won’t have to worry about coming home to wilted, sad plants. From DIY water hacks to helpful sitters, your plant family can stay safe and green while you enjoy your time away.
Just a little planning = a happy reunion when you return. 🌿🧳✨