How to Water Plants When on Vacation – Stress-Free Plant Care While You’re Away

Planning a well-deserved vacation? That’s exciting—but if you’re a plant lover, you might feel a little anxious about leaving your leafy companions behind. Whether you’re away for a few days or several weeks, watering your plants while you’re gone is one of the most important things to plan in advance.

Fortunately, there are several stress-free, low-maintenance, and even DIY solutions that will keep your plants healthy and hydrated. From clever self-watering hacks to simple planning strategies, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Plant Types and Their Needs

Before choosing any watering method, assess the types of plants you have. Each plant has different needs:

High-Water-Need Plants:

• Ferns

• Peace lilies

• Calathea

• Herbs (especially basil, cilantro, mint)

Moderate-Water-Need Plants:

• Pothos

• Philodendrons

• Spider plants

• Garden flowers and vegetables

Low-Water-Need Plants:

• Cacti

• Succulents

• Snake plants

• ZZ plants

Pro tip: If you’re gone for less than 5 days, low-water plants may not need any extra help at all.

Step 2: Prep and Deep-Water Before You Leave

The day before your departure, give all your plants a thorough watering:

• Water until it runs out of the drainage holes (for potted plants).

• Ensure soil is fully moist—not just the surface.

• Remove any dying leaves or flowers to reduce water loss through transpiration.

• Add a layer of mulch (bark chips, straw, or even shredded newspaper) to potted plants and garden beds to help retain soil moisture.

This prep alone can help most houseplants last 5–7 days without additional watering.

Step 3: Group Plants Together for Micro-Humidity

Group your indoor plants in one area, preferably near a north- or east-facing window to avoid harsh sunlight.

• Place them close together—this creates a mini greenhouse effect and slows down evaporation.

• Put them on a tray or shallow bin with a layer of pebbles and a bit of water at the bottom to boost humidity without waterlogging.

Step 4: Choose the Right Watering Method (Based on Trip Length)

For 2–4 Days Away:

Deep Water and Go

Just water thoroughly before leaving—most healthy plants will be fine. Move them out of direct sunlight and into cooler rooms if possible.

For 5–10 Days Away:

🧴 1. Self-Watering Globes (or Wine Bottle Hack)

These slowly release water into the soil as it dries.

DIY Option:

1. Fill a clean wine bottle or long-necked bottle with water.

2. Quickly flip it and push it into the soil (at an angle).

3. The water will release slowly over several days.

Ideal for medium-sized potted plants indoors or on patios.

2. Wick Watering System

Perfect for multiple houseplants.

You’ll Need:

• Cotton string, shoelace, or thick yarn

• A large jar or bucket of water

How to Set It Up:

1. Cut a wick long enough to go from the water source to the base of the plant.

2. Push one end 2–3 inches into the soil.

3. Place the other end into the water container.

4. Water is drawn up as the plant needs it.

Works great for ferns, tropical plants, and herbs.

3. Bathtub or Sink Method (for Houseplants)

Works well for shorter absences (up to 7 days).

1. Lay a towel or old cloth on the bottom of your tub or sink.

2. Add 1–2 inches of water.

3. Place plants in pots with drainage holes on top.

4. The soil will wick moisture gradually.

Not suitable for succulents or cacti.

For 10+ Days or Outdoor Garden Care:

4. Drip Irrigation System (with Timer)

Best for garden beds, raised beds, or larger patio containers.

• Install a simple drip line with emitters near each plant.

• Attach to an outdoor faucet with a battery-operated timer.

• Set it to run once or twice a day for 15–30 minutes depending on your climate.

This system pays off especially if you travel frequently or grow vegetables.

5. DIY Bucket Drip System

Simple for small garden beds.

1. Poke 3–5 tiny holes in the bottom of a clean 5-gallon bucket.

2. Fill with water and place between plants.

3. Water will slowly seep into the soil over several days.

You can also bury the bucket partway to keep it stable.

Extra Tips for Outdoor Plants:

• Mulch everything. Mulch slows down evaporation by 30–50%.

• Water in the early morning before you leave. Soil absorbs water better when it’s cooler.

• Shade tender plants with row covers, old sheets, or garden umbrellas.

• Use larger pots for container plants—they dry out slower than small ones.

Step 5: Ask a Friend or Neighbor (Bonus Tip)

If you’re going away for 2+ weeks, it’s best to ask someone to check in.

• Create a simple watering schedule (include plant names and instructions).

• Show them around your garden or home once before you leave.

• Leave watering cans, misters, or hose wands nearby.

• Offer a thank-you gift (herbs, a houseplant cutting, or even a gift card!).

Bonus: What NOT to Do Before a Vacation

•  Don’t fertilize plants before leaving—it encourages new growth that needs more water.

•  Don’t leave plants in direct summer sun (they’ll dry faster).

•  Don’t move plants to totally dark areas—they still need light!

•  Don’t rely on “just rain” for outdoor plants—it’s unpredictable.

 Final Thoughts: Peace of Mind for You and Your Plants

With the right strategy, your plants can thrive—even while you’re thousands of miles away. Whether you’re relying on DIY water hacks, a trusted plant-sitter, or simply planning ahead, there’s no need to stress.

Take a little time before your trip to prep, group, and set up a watering system that matches your trip length—and you’ll come home to healthy, happy plants.

Now go enjoy that vacation—you’ve earned it (and so have your plants)!

Would you like this turned into:

• A printable vacation plant care checklist?

• A Pinterest pin layout?

• A social media version with visuals?

Let me know how you’d like to use it!