How to Keep Your Plants Alive When You Go Away on Vacation

My recent trip to Paris, France last month was a great opportunity for me to practice letting go. I truly wanted to enjoy my time away without having to worry or stress about whether or not my houseplants were going to be alive when I returned. I knew if I set my plants up for success, they would be just fine without me for just over a week.

For me, setting up my houseplant collection for success while I’m away comes down to a handful of plant care strategies. Here’s a simple guide to preparing your plants before vacation so they can thrive in your absence.

1. Give Your Plants a Deep Watering

A day or two before you leave, water your plants thoroughly. This allows the soil to absorb moisture without becoming overly soggy, which can lead to root rot. I usually make sure to add my favorite fertilizer and fungus gnat prevention products when I water.

Tip: If you’ll be gone for more than a week, consider bottom watering. Fill a shallow tray with water and let the pots soak for about 30 minutes to deeply hydrate the roots.

2. Adjust the Light and Temperature

Plants lose moisture faster in bright light and warm temperatures. To slow down evaporation:

• Move plants away from direct sunlight (but keep them in a bright area).

• Group plants together to create a mini greenhouse effect and retain humidity.

• If possible, set your thermostat to a moderate temperature (between 65-75°F) to keep conditions stable.

During my trip, since I still had family at home continuing their daily routine, I kept all of my plants in their spots since I knew they would receive their usual light. When we all go away together, I try to move my houseplants to one area where they will receive a lot of natural light from high windows, despite some lower window shades being drawn.

3. Use DIY Watering Methods

If you’re gone for more than a week, self-watering solutions can keep your plants hydrated:

• Water Globes or Bulbs: These slowly release water into the soil over time. These self-watering tools are great for plants that prefer evenly moist soil, such as ferns and calatheas. I would avoid using these items on plants that need to dry out, such as succulents, snake plants, or ZZ plants.

• DIY Wick System: Place one end of a cotton string in a water container and the other in the soil. The wick will draw moisture as needed.

• Self-watering pots: These pots have built in reservoirs that you fill with water. Plants access the water through cotton rope wicks or drainage holes.

4. Create a Humidity Boost

Tropical plants love humidity, and if you’re leaving them behind, they’ll need a little extra care:

• Pebble Tray: Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water under your plant’s pot. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity.

• Set up a humidifier on a timer and place it close to humidity-loving plants (like ferns and peace lilies) before you leave.

5. Trim, Prune, and Check for Pests

Before heading out, remove any dead or yellowing leaves to help your plant conserve energy. Check for pests and treat any infestations beforehand—otherwise, they might spread while you’re gone.

6. Ask a Plant-Sitter for Help

If you’re traveling on vacation for an extended period of time, consider asking a plant loving friend, neighbor, or family member to check in on your plants. Leave simple instructions and let them know if any plants need special care. Or, consider dropping off a couple of your high-maintenance plants with your most trusted plant buddy.

Coming Home to Happy Plants

When you return home, gradually reintroduce your plants to their normal routine. Check the soil moisture, prune any struggling leaves, and give them a fresh watering if needed. If you’ve only been gone a week, chances are, your plants are just fine! It’s exciting to notice new growth and realize that you really don’t have to be a helicopter plant parent for your plants to thrive.

Taking these simple steps before vacation ensures that your plants stay healthy and vibrant while you enjoy your well-deserved break! Take the trip. Don’t let your plants keep you from experiencing life.

Take care,
Nerissa Mamaril
owner, lifesoulgarden plant shop