6 tips to keep your plants healthy while traveling

Leaving plants alone during a period of absence can be a concern for those who grow species at home. Spending a few days away from the routine of watering, lighting, and basic care can directly impact the health of the species—especially those that require constant attention! However, with some simple methods and proactive strategies, it is possible to keep the plants healthy until your return from the trip. Here are the main tips:

Choose the right location for each plant

One of the first steps before traveling is to assess the light. Some plants benefit from indirect light and can be moved indoors during the trip, away from direct sunlight that can further dry out the soil. Shade and partial shade species, such as zamioculca, pothos, and peace lily, tolerate periods without frequent watering better, as long as they are in a ventilated and protected location. Avoiding placing pots in locations with strong drafts, such as open balconies or windows with direct wind, also helps to preserve the moisture of the substrate for longer.

Invest in improvised irrigation solutions

For short trips, capillary watering is an effective ally. Just use a piece of string or cotton strip, with one end inside a container of water and the other lightly buried in the pot's soil. The water will be gradually absorbed, keeping the substrate moist. Another widely used technique is the bottle upside down with small holes in the cap. This method is effective for medium and large pots, gradually releasing water as the soil dries. For those who prefer more discreet alternatives, there are watering globes and ceramic devices that work similarly while maintaining the aesthetics of the projects.

Reduce moisture loss with soil cover

Covering the surface of the soil with materials such as pine bark, expanded clay, gravel, or even dried leaves is a simple solution that helps conserve moisture for longer. This protective layer reduces water evaporation, especially on hotter days. Additionally, natural cover gives a more sophisticated finish to the pots and is a technique adopted in many decorative landscaping projects.

Group the plants in the same project

Gathering the pots in a single space of the house may facilitate collective care. A useful trick is to place them on trays with pebbles and a little water at the bottom. This arrangement prevents direct contact of water with the pot but provides a slight increase in humidity in the air, benefiting tropical plants and broad-leaved species.

Grouping the species also facilitates the setup of protected areas by curtains or blinds, which filter the entrance of light and better control the temperature during the day. On the other hand, one should avoid changing the projects of more sensitive species, such as orchids, cacti, and succulents due to their adaptation needs.

Prepare for your absence

Avoid fertilizing the day before the trip is an important recommendation, as nutrients can accelerate the plant's metabolism at a time when it will not receive the necessary care. It is also not advisable to perform drastic prunings just before leaving: the plant may not heal well without daily care! On the contrary, a generous watering one day before departure and checking for pests and damaged leaves can help ensure that your plants stay healthy for longer.

For long trips, consider extra help

For trips longer than ten days, the safest option is to count on someone trustworthy to come by your home, check on the plants, and make small adjustments – such as occasional watering or repositioning pots. It is worth leaving clear instructions, naming the plants that require more attention, and informing the ideal frequency for each one. Those who prefer professional alternatives can hire periodic gardening services or resort to automation solutions, such as timed irrigation systems connected to the electrical grid. CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creator agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text has been edited by Yeska Coelho.