How To Care For Plants While You're Away
Whether you’re going on vacation, out of town for business, or traveling for the holidays, a little extra preparation can ensure that your houseplants will stay happy and healthy while you’re away.
Prune Up Your Plant
Remove any leaves that are declining, leaves that are more than half yellow or brown should be removed. These leaves aren’t functioning at 100% anymore and removing them will allow the plant to save its energy for fresh new growth. While you’re at it, clear the soil surface of any shriveled leaves and other debris. Allowing debris to remain on the soil surface can harbor insects that feed on your plant.
Give Them A Good Drink
Give your plants a good, thorough soak the day before leaving. Our favorite way to do this is by moving plant pots to the sink, tub, or shower. That allows you to give them plenty of water without worry of it overflowing onto your furniture or floor. After watering, allow plants to rest so that excess water drains away before putting them back in their usual spot.
Maintain the Same Light and Temperature
If possible, leave your curtains open while you’re gone so that your plants continue to take in the light, they rely on to survive. If that’s not achievable, ask a friend to open and shut them daily. A sudden change in light levels can induce dormancy or cause plants to decline.
When it comes to temperature, don’t be tempted to turn off your thermostat while away. Your plants can tolerate a slight change, but aim to keep the temperature within 5°F or so of what they’re used to. Similar to light, sudden temperature shifts can be stressful for your plants.
