Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Plant Care During Vacation

We are finally able to travel after this long, horrible year. Many people are planning a nice long trip out of town. If you’re worried about your house plants, there are a few simple things you can do to keep them thriving.

You can start by taking your large tropical plants and putting them in the tub with a few inches of water. Remove any saucers or connected trays so they can drink up the water as needed. The standing water will also help provide a little humidity. 

Another easy trick is by using something that most people would normally throw away, a wine bottle! Use a bottle with a screw top and poke several small holes in the cap. Then, fill the bottle with water and insert it cap-side-down into the pot. Push the bottle in until the cap is touching the bottom of the pot, with the bottle standing straight. Water will then be released slowly to water your plant while you are gone. 

Small plants will thrive if you use a terrarium. Covering the plant with a plastic bag or container will mimic a terrarium and provide humidity and moisture. Wick watering also works well for small plants, preferably with a cotton cord. Place one end of the cord two inches into the soil, tie a bolt or something similar to the other end, and put it in a large bucket of water. The weight will keep the cord at the bottom of the water. The cord should be as taut as possible, and the water will slowly wick up the cord. 

While you’re gone, it is best to back the plants away from direct sunlight. The goal is to have a steady climate, so avoid intense sunlight during the day. And if you group similar plants together, they will share humidity and warmth. Succulents and cacti can be watered before you leave and left in a dry spot.

Airflow is good but remember to keep the conditions as steady as possible. Plan on keeping the air conditioning on because leaving the house too warm will dry out sensitive plants. You do not have to keep it as cool as usual, but it is worth a little bit of electricity to keep the plants healthy.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO