Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
As a flower shop, Arizona Flower Market appreciates the satisfaction that comes with tending to plants. Yet abandoning your greenery when you go on vacation can trigger worry among plant lovers. Fret not! We’ve put together a guide to ensure indoor plants flourish in your absence, allowing you to savor your travels without concerns.
Getting Your Plants Ready Before You Leave
Perform a Detailed Examination
Before setting off on your trip, carefully inspect each plant. Identify any leaves showing signs of decline, such as yellowing or browning. Gently pluck them off. This will not only spruce up the appearance of your plants but also enable them to channel their energy towards healthy new growth.
Ensure Adequate Watering
It is essential to water your plants just before you leave. Place your plant containers in the sink, bathtub, or shower. Let them absorb as much water as they need. This will help them maintain moisture levels while you’re away.
Maintaining Optimal Humidity Levels
Increasing the moisture levels surrounding your plants can help prolong the time between watering sessions. Gather your plants together, as the moisture released by their leaves will create an environment. You can also position a water container near the group of plants to further enhance the humidity.
Ensuring Lighting and Temperature
Keeping your blinds or curtains open will ensure that your plants receive sunlight to thrive. If this is not feasible, consider asking a trusted friend or neighbor to help with opening and closing them daily. Additionally, avoid temperature fluctuations by maintaining your thermostat within 5°F of your plants’ usual surroundings.
Seeking Assistance from Reliable Caretakers
Recruit a Plant Sitting Volunteer
For trips lasting more than a week or two, consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member, or neighbor to look after your plants while you’re away. Provide them with watering instructions, and if possible, guide them through your regular plant care routine before you leave.
Utilizing Professional Plant Sitting Services
If you don’t have someone in your circle to care for your plants, there are professional services available that specialize in houseplant care. These companies often offer tailored plans based on your plants’ needs and can provide regular updates on their condition.
Maintaining Plant Health While You’re Away
Adjusting Watering Routines
Depending on the weather and your plants’ specific requirements, you might need to tweak your watering schedule when you’re not around. For instance, plants in climates or those that thrive in soil may need less frequent watering, while species that love moisture might require a bit more attention.
Keeping an Eye Out for Pests and Diseases
Before you leave, check for any signs of pests or diseases on your plants. Deal with any problems promptly because they can quickly get out of hand and harm your plants. Ensure that you give instructions to the person caring for your plants on identifying and addressing common plant health issues.
Pruning and Trimming as
Your plants might keep growing and changing while you’re away. Encourage whoever is looking after them to trim any unruly foliage to maintain an appearance.
Welcoming Your Plants Back Home
Reintroducing Them
When you return from your trip, avoid reverting back to your regular care routine for your plants. Instead, slowly reintroduce them to their watering, lighting, and temperature conditions to prevent shocking their systems.
Checking for Any Changes
Look at your plants for any differences that may have occurred during your absence, such as growth, wilting leaves, or signs of pest infestations.
Make sure to address any issues and give your plants the care or treatment they need.
Enjoy the Reunion!
Reconnecting with your thriving plants after a vacation is such a fulfilling experience. Take a moment to admire their resilience and the happiness they bring to your home.
Here at Arizona Flower Market, we believe that your plants can thrive when you’re not around with a bit of planning and preparation. By following these tips, you can travel worry-free, knowing that your beloved greenery is well taken care of. Have a vacation. May your plants continue to bring you endless joy!
Frequently Asked Questions: Guide to Plant Care While Away
What should I do to prepare my plants before leaving? Before you bid farewell to your leafy companions:
Give them a thorough clean-up by removing any yellowing or brown leaves
Clear the soil surface of debris to prevent pest infestations
Treat your plants to a deep, satisfying drink the day before departure
How can I boost humidity for my plants while I’m away? Create a mini tropical paradise for your plants by:
Grouping them to create a humid microclimate
Placing a water-filled dish in the center of the group
Consider using a pebble tray for extra moisture
How can I ensure my plants get enough water while I’m gone? Keep your plants hydrated with these clever tricks:
For short trips, please give them a thorough soak before leaving
Use self-watering globes or spikes for medium-length absences
Set up a DIY wick system using cotton rope for more extended vacations
What if I’m leaving for an extended period? For those long getaways:
Invest in an automatic watering system
Consider moving plants to a self-watering planter
Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to water your plants regularly
Should I move my plants away from windows while I’m gone? No need to disrupt their sunbathing routine! Instead:
Leave blinds open to maintain their regular light exposure
If security is a concern, ask someone to adjust the blinds daily
Consider using sheer curtains to filter intense light
How do I maintain the right temperature for my plants? Keep your plants in their comfort zone by:
Leaving your thermostat set close to its usual temperature
Avoiding placing plants near drafty windows or heat sources
Using a smart thermostat to regulate temperature remotely
How can I protect my plants from pests while I’m away? Ward off unwanted visitors with these tips:
Inspect plants thoroughly before leaving and treat any existing issues
Place sticky traps near plants to catch flying pests
Consider applying a natural neem oil spray as a preventive measure
When should I ask someone to check on my plants? Set your plant sitter up for success by:
Leaving clear, detailed instructions for each plant
Grouping plants with similar care needs together
Preparing all necessary supplies (water, fertilizer, etc.) in advance