When it comes to growing plants, it can often take a lot of effort to keep them alive – whether they are in the garden or houseplants.
But do you ever think about which plants can survive the longest without the need for water?
When it comes to going away, holidays should be stress-free and a time to forget all your worries. There’s nothing better than stepping off the plane with the warm weather hitting your face.
However, it’s important to think about the home and make sure everything is in order before we leave. One particular thing we tend to forget is our plants.
Ted Bromley-Hall is a gardening expert at IBRAN. He’s working with Tombola to share what you need to do before heading off on your travels. In particular, which plants survive without the need for watering so often.
Bromley-Hall said: “Many houseplants struggle when you’re on holiday if left unkept and the biggest reason for this is lack of water.
“Monstera Deliciosa, also known as a ‘cheese plant’, is a popular option that originates in the Central American jungles, where it climbs other trees and occupies more shaded, humid spots.
“They are high maintenance as they’re not well adapted to drought conditions, so need watering once or twice a week.
“That being said, they also do not cope with standing in water. They need to be kept in semi-shaded spots with dappled light within the house.”
Meanwhile, other popular plants such as the Bird of Paradise (familiar to frequent visitors of the Canary Islands) are more conditioned to short periods of drought, provided they are watered when the soil is dry.
The pro continued: “These plants need bright sunshine, humidity, and warmth.
“For this reason, they’re good houseplants to keep and they can be left for around a week whilst you’re on holiday.”
When it comes to potted herbs such as lavender and rosemary they are great pot plants which are “extremely drought tolerant” and make them suitable as houseplants for regular holidaymakers.
He added: “They require infrequent watering and feeding and can be left unattended when away for short periods.
“They also smell incredibly good and help to clean the air in your home, without being overpowering.”
Do you have tips or suggestions for how to keep your plants alive while you’re away? Let us know in the comments below.
