Last Updated on October 13, 2020 by David
Keeping plants at home has many benefits. Plants can enrich the air with moisture and oxygen and some types of plants are even capable of binding to harmful compounds that enter the atmosphere. Besides, plants can also make your home more beautiful. Plants require regular and consistent care to thrive. Without regular and timely watering, plants may not grow properly, develop the disease, and eventually wither/die. Cases of wilting or dying of plants often occur when the owner is not at home or on vacation. We can’t escape the enjoyment of the holidays, but what about our favorite plants in our homes? What happens to our plants if they are left behind during the holidays?
How to water plants while away for a month?
If you have family members who live with or close to your house, of course, you can entrust your plants to them. You just have to explain to them how to water and when to do it and then hand over your house keys and leave in peace. But what if you don’t have family or friends to help you? How to water indoor plants while away? There are several methods you can use and the basics are not that difficult. These methods are quite simple and easy for anyone. Here are some simple but brilliant ways!
Wick irrigation system
The first idea for how to water plants when you are away is to create a wick irrigation system. Use a wick made of a cloth that absorbs water well. Burrow one end of the wick in your potted plant soil, while placing the other end of the same wick into the container filled with water. Place the container of water in a standing position slightly higher than the potted plant. By using the nature of water that flows from high to low places, the soil in your pot will not dry out because water can flow into the pot through the wick. This method is very easy and suitable for those of you who travel a lot.
Plastic bag greenhouse
Even though this one method may seem unconventional, but rest assured that it will work well over a long period. How to make a plastic bag greenhouse is quite easy. First, get a clear plastic bag large enough to cover both the plant and the pot. Add supports to the pots so that the plastic bags don’t stick to the plants. There are many opinions regarding this method. According to some, the plastic bag shouldn’t touch the leaves, but others say a little contact is okay. After the blanching is complete, water the plant as usual. Place your plant pot in a plastic bag and then pull the bag up so that it surrounds your plant. Blow a little air into the bag until it puffs up before closing it. Making the bag bloated is intended so that the plastic bag does not press on the plant leaves. Place your plants in an area that is not exposed to direct sunlight. This is because direct sunlight can make plastic bags hot and will kill your plants. The plastic bag will act as a mini-greenhouse that can trap moisture and make it drip back into the plants. That way, you don’t have to worry about your plants withering/dying while you are away.
Slow seeping system
The best way to water indoor plants on the go is to adopt a slow seeping system. Here is a simple way you can apply to make the system yourself at home.
- Prepare the materials you need, namely: 1 to 2-liter plastic bottles (you can use used soft drink bottles), drill tools, or small nails if you don’t have a drill, scissors, and a
- Cut the top of the plastic
- Make a few small holes on the top of the screw using a drill or small nail earlier.
- Replace the bottle cap and bury the top of the bottle into the soil.
- Fill the bottle with water, and the water will slowly drip into your plant pot.
This method is effective if you are going to be leaving your plant for a long time. Beforehand, make sure to water the plant thoroughly first so that it doesn’t absorb all the water right away.
