5 Tips to Keep Your Plants Watered During End-of-Summer Heat

As summer winds down, families are eager to squeeze in those last-minute getaways before fall begins. However, if you’re a plant parent, the excitement of a vacation can be tinged with a bit of anxiety.

How will your plants survive the summer heat without your daily attention? The scorching sun and high temperatures can wreak havoc on your indoor and outdoor plants, turning your green sanctuary into a wilted mess.

But don’t let the fear of coming home to withered plants stop you from enjoying a well-deserved break. With some planning, you can ensure your plants remain hydrated and healthy.

Try these simple tips to keep your indoor and outdoor plants alive and watered.

Mulch for Moisture

Without mulch, a garden can only go a few days without water because the soil will lose moisture. Adding a 2-3 inches thick layer of organic mulch—such as straw, wood chips, or compost—around your plants can reduce water evaporation.

A thinner layer of organic material like moss or shredded leaves can provide similar benefits for indoor plants.

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Self-Watering Systems

Using a self-watering system is one of the most reliable ways to keep your plants hydrated during your absence. There are several types, ranging from simple DIY solutions to more advanced systems.

You can create a drip system using a glass or plastic bottle, ideal for in-ground, raised, or container gardens. Get a 1 to 2-liter plastic water bottle, cut the bottom of the bottle off, and then drill a few small drainage holes in the cap. Bury the neck of the bottle in the ground near your plants, and then fill it with water.

Depending on the bottle’s size, the water will slowly drip out over a few days. For glass bottles, just put your thumb over the top after filling it with water, flip it over, and plunge it into the soil.

A soaker hose connected to a timer is also a good option, as are watering spikes or globes that slowly release water into the soil as it dries out. Self-watering pots or planters have a built-in reservoir, allowing the plant to draw up water as needed.

Always test the self-watering system to ensure it works before you leave.

Turn a Plastic Bag Into a Mini Greenhouse

This simple method involves placing a clear plastic bag over your plant and securing it around the pot. The bag traps moisture and creates a humid environment, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Ensure the bag doesn’t touch the leaves to prevent mold growth. You can use small stakes or sticks to position it perfectly.

Place the plant in indirect light to avoid overheating. This trick works best for small, hardy plants.

Group Plants Together

Plants naturally release moisture through a process known as transpiration. Grouping your plants creates a more humid microenvironment, which can help retain moisture for extended periods.

Move indoor plants to a cooler, shaded area of your home without exposure to direct sunlight.

Place outdoor plants in a shaded spot in your garden or patio to reduce evaporation and ensure that your plants stay cool during the hottest times of the day.

Get a Plant Sitter

If you will be away for an extended period, consider temporarily relocating your plants to a friend or family member’s home. Otherwise, you could ask a neighbor or hire a plant sitter to check on your plants every few days.

These options benefit delicate or high-maintenance plants that require consistent watering. Before you leave, provide clear care instructions for each plant, including watering and fertilizer schedules.

What to Avoid Before Going Away

Relying on extra watering before leaving

One common mistake many plant owners make is to give their plants an extra-large watering before they head out on vacation. Hoping a soak will tide them over until you return can do more harm than good.

Overwatering your plants before you leave can lead to waterlogged soil, which deprives the roots of oxygen and can cause root rot. A

dditionally, if the soil is too wet, it might attract pests or encourage fungal growth. Instead of saturating your plants, stick to their regular watering schedule and use other methods, like self-watering systems, to keep them hydrated.

Leaving plants in direct sunlight

It might seem logical to leave your plants in a sunny spot to ensure they get enough light while you’re away, but this can be a recipe for disaster during the dog days of summer.

Direct sunlight causes soil to dry quickly, leaving your plants thirsty and stressed. The intense heat can also scorch the leaves, leading to irreversible damage.

If you’re going away for more than a few days, moving your plants to a shaded area where they’ll be protected from the harsh sun is better.