Many people try to protect their houseplants from summer heat by closing blinds and overwatering before leaving on holiday. But these well-intentioned steps can do more harm than good, according to expert advice. Here’s what you need to know to keep your plants healthy while you’re away.
When preparing to leave home for a summer holiday, it’s easy to assume that closing the blinds and soaking your houseplants will keep them safe from the heat. But according to gardener Ángel Agudo, these common habits can actually put your indoor plants in danger—sometimes with irreversible consequences.
Speaking on the Castilla-La Mancha Media program Estando Contigo, Agudo highlighted the most frequent mistakes people make before heading out for vacation. Chief among them: shutting out all natural light. “We lower the blinds and leave no light, which is mistake number one. Plants need some light, even if it’s dim,” he explained. Without access to sunlight, many species quickly deteriorate, especially those accustomed to bright spaces.
Light Matters
While fully closed blinds can help keep a room cool, they also deprive plants of the essential light they need to survive. Agudo recommends grouping plants in a cool room away from direct sun, but always leaving the blinds partially open. This way, plants receive enough natural light without being exposed to the hottest part of the day. Not all plants have the same light requirements, so those used to well-lit areas are especially vulnerable if left in darkness for several days.
The Dangers of Overwatering
Another widespread error is placing all the pots in the bathtub and filling it with water, hoping to keep the soil moist during your absence. Agudo warns that keeping roots constantly soaked can be just as damaging as drought. “You always have to adapt the plant to the watering system, but never leave them waterlogged during vacation,” he said. Excess moisture encourages fungal growth and can cause root rot, especially in the summer heat.
The right amount of water depends on the plant species, pot size, soil type, and how long you’ll be away. It’s also important to check that drainage holes are clear and to remove any dead leaves before leaving. Water thoroughly, but don’t leave standing water in saucers or trays.
Test DIY Watering Systems
Many people turn to homemade watering solutions—like inverted bottles, clay cones, or cotton wicks—to keep plants hydrated. Agudo stresses the importance of testing these systems before relying on them for a trip. “Another mistake is not trying out the watering systems we plan to use. It’s always important to test them and see how they work,” he said. A trial run helps you gauge how much water is released and for how long, and can reveal leaks or excessive moisture that could harm your plants.
Keeping some light, avoiding waterlogging, and testing your watering setup are the key steps to protecting your plants during summer absences. For those looking to make their homes more comfortable in the heat, practical advice—like the tips found in this article on how to cool your nights without air conditioning—can also help you manage the summer climate more effectively.
As Agudo’s advice makes clear, a little planning and attention to your plants’ real needs can make the difference between returning to a thriving indoor garden or a collection of wilted stems. The right balance of light, water, and preparation is essential for healthy houseplants all summer long.
