ArcaMax

If you’re like most plant enthusiasts, you probably spend a lot of time making sure your plant babies are properly watered, placed in the perfect spot for sunlight, and nurtured with the right soil and supplements. But what happens when it’s time for a vacation? If you think there’s nothing you can do, you might want to think again. With a little planning, your plants can not only survive while you’re away, but actually thrive. Here’s what experts have to say.

Choose the right plants

While some plants require constant hands-on care, many plants will be perfectly fine if you travel for long stretches or go away on weekends. So if you are currently plant shopping, it’s important to choose wisely, says garden and landscaping expert Andrew Parwol, founder of Garden Centre Shopping. “Some plants, like snake plants and ZZ plants, are naturally more tolerant of drought and can survive a longer period without attention,” he says.

If you’re worried about outdoor plants, Parwol recommends choosing lavender, rosemary, or ornamental grasses that can handle the dry, humid weather easily. “Knowing which plants can go longer without water will help you plan ahead,” he says.

Use self-watering planters

Similarly, self-watering planters can be a game changer for plant owners who are constantly on the go, Porwol says. “For container plants, consider using self-watering planters, which can keep moisture steady for up to two weeks.” Swap out those planters and leave for vacation knowing your plants won’t be thirsty while you’re gone.

Consider hydrogel crystals

If you’re really concerned about your plants getting thirsty, consider water crystals. “You can also add hydrogel crystals to your soil mix,” Porwol says. “These [crystals] absorb water and release it slowly, giving your plants consistent hydration.”

Make a DIY drip system

DIY drip systems are an easy and cheap option for plant maintenance, especially if you’re taking a trip at the last minute. “Fill a wine bottle with water, invert it, and stick it into the soil,” Porwol says. “The water will slowly seep out as the soil dries, [making it] ideal for a quick getaway.”

Move your plants to the bathtub

If you’re planning a longer trip and have a few moments to spare before you head out, Porwol advises grouping your plants together in a bathtub, ideally lined with a towel and a shallow layer of water. “This creates more humidity and is perfect for plants to survive,” he says. While this might seem inconvenient or unconventional, it can mean the difference between coming back to a home filled with thriving plants or greenery gone brown.

Store your plants away from the sun

Plants that are constantly in direct sunlight could wilt if they can’t be watered, says garden expert Mark Thompson, co-owner of Shoppe. In this case, he suggests moving your plants out of sunny spots and opting for shadier rooms instead. “If you’re going to be gone for three or four days, just by moving them out of the full sun, you could potentially keep them from getting wilted,” Thompson says.

For long vacations, hire help

If you are going to be away for an extended period of time, longer than a couple of weeks, you might just have to pay someone to water your plants, Thompson says. “I would suggest finding a neighbor or a neighbor's kid who might water for you.” On the other hand, if you really want a pro to take care of your plants while you’re gone, consider hiring a plant sitter in your local area.

(Real Simple magazine provides smart, realistic solutions to everyday challenges. Online at www.realsimple.com.)

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