From huddling them together for warmth, to hiring a plant-sitter, Michael Perry is on hand to ensure plant parents can enjoy their getaway without concerns
From keeping them warm by huddling them together, to just a light sprinkle of water before your departure, here’s how Brits can go on holiday – without having to worry about their houseplants while they are gone.
The top tips come from plant expert Michael Perry, otherwise known as Mr Plant Geek – who also says that calling on a plant-sitter, to look after more specialist specimens, may not be out of the question. And he also says that those seeking out sunnier climes, to beat the last of the UK winter blues, can use their travels as inspiration – by keeping an eye out for other, exotic houseplants to expand their collection once they are home.
But for those green-fingered plant parents who worry about returning to dead or unhealthy plants, the horticulturalist says it is important for them not to panic about the UK having another cold snap while they are travelling.
Michael Perry, who has teamed up with online travel agent, loveholidays, said: “During winter, most houseplants won’t be growing very quickly, so constant watering is the last thing they need. But as the mercury starts to slowly rise, your plants will need a little bit more care and attention than they would have a few months back. It’s still perfectly possible to come back to thriving plants, even after an extended break – you just might need some help to do it.”
The “hortpreneur” also suggests that if you’re a bit more of a “plant geek”, and have a few specialist specimens which need grow lights and heat, it might be advisable to find a houseplant-sitter for the duration of your holiday. A plant-sitter might even be able to update you by video, to keep you in the loop as to their wellbeing. But the important thing is not to panic if there’s another cold snap.
Michael said: “For a week’s holiday, I would give plants a light watering before you leave. Avoid leaving them sitting in pools of chilly water at this time of year – and I certainly wouldn’t use “the ice cube trick” that many might encourage you to try.”
Al Murray, from loveholidays, added: “Many Brits are considering jetting off on a last-minute sunny escape, to beat the end of the winter chill. While the plant-lovers among us may be worried about their leafy friends surviving while they’re away, Michael has revealed now is in fact the perfect time to head abroad. Armed with these valuable tips, green-fingered holidaymakers can make smarter decisions for their sunshine-filled breaks, while ensuring the rhythm of life back home continues to run smoothly.”
MICHAEL PERRY’S FIVE TOP TIPS TO ENSURING YOUR HOUSEPLANTS SURVIVE YOUR GETAWAY:
- Give your plants a light watering ahead of your departure
- Pack your fertiliser away – some plants might still be dormant
- Call on a plant-sitter for more specialist plants
- Huddle your plants together for heat
- Use your holiday for houseplant inspiration
