How to Keep Your Tropical Plants Happy While You’re on Holiday

Sun, sea, sangria… and slightly panicked thoughts of your Monstera back home?

If you’ve spent months nurturing your tropical plants, it’s only natural to worry about leaving them while you travel. Whether it’s a long weekend or a two-week escape, the good news is this: with a bit of planning, your plants will be just fine.

This guide is designed to keep your tropical houseplants, such as Anthuriums, Alocasias, Philodendrons, and Calatheas, happy while you’re away. They need a little more care than the average cactus, but they’re not impossible to leave alone for a while.

Let’s dive right in! 

Knowing your plant

Start by understanding what each plant actually needs. Some tropical species are thirsty plants, and therefore dry out quickly. Others (like Hoyas) can handle drier soil for a bit.

Before you leave:

  • Check the soil preference and watering routine for each plant.

  • Look at whether they’re currently in a growth phase or more dormant (this may vary depending on season and location).

  • Make a quick note of any that are already drooping, underwatered, or stressed – these are the ones to prioritise.

A bit of prep here makes it easier to decide how much water to give, whether to group plants together, or whether some might benefit from temporary relocation. 

And, if you need specific care advice for your plant, check out our Plant Care A-Z blog here.

Watering Strategies (That Actually Work)

The week that you’re heading on holiday, allow your plants to dry out a little more than you usually would. Then, give all your plants a thorough watering the day before you leave. Make sure the water reaches the root zone and not just the top layer.

If your plants dry out quickly or you’ll be away more than a few days, try:

  • The bath soak method: submerge nursery pots in a few inches of water for 30–60 minutes so the soil can absorb moisture deeply.

  • Self-watering pots. POTR pots or other self-watering containers are designed for longer intervals between watering, all year round. These are particularly great for frequent travellers or busy plant parents!

  • For frequent travellers, semi-hydro options can be greatly helpful. Plants grown in LECA or passive hydro setups can go longer between waterings. Once established, they’re less prone to drought stress, pests and root rot. 

Light & Location Adjustments

Plants can burn or dehydrate faster in intense light, especially in south- or west-facing windows during peak summer.

As a result, we would always recommend moving plants slightly back from hot windows or onto lower shelves. It's handy to create a ‘plant zone’ where they can benefit from mutual humidity.

If needed, use sheer curtains to soften the light without plunging them into darkness.

If your home tends to get especially hot while you’re gone, prioritise keeping air flow and indirect light steady.

Repotting Considerations

A freshly repotted plant retains moisture longer, but timing matters.

If any of your plants are well overdue for a repot, they’ll likely dry out faster. Tightly packed roots (root-bound plants) don’t hold water as well, so they’re more at risk of drying out while you’re away.

If you’ve got time (ideally a couple of weeks before your trip) repotting might help your plants survive better as fresh soil holds more moisture and gives roots breathing space. But don’t repot the day before you leave as plants need time to recover and adjust.



Keep It Clean and Pest-Free

Check leaves and soil before you leave.

Wipe down foliage with a damp cloth to remove dust, especially on large-leaved plants. Dust can block light from entering cells and is a great location for pesky pests to call home.

Before you go:

  • Dust leaves 

  • Inspect leaves thoroughly for spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips.

  • Treat lightly if needed (neem oil or insecticidal soap), but avoid drenching the plant unless you’ve got time for recovery.

Prevention is easier than coming home to an infestation.

Ask a Plant Sitter 

If you’re away for more than 10 days and have a large collection, consider asking a friend, family member or neighbour for help. We’d suggest inviting them round first to help answer any questions and don’t feel nervous caring for your plants.

What to Avoid

Common pre-holiday mistakes:

  • Don’t put plants in full sun or a sealed-off room with no air or light.

  • Avoid panic overwatering – wet soil does not equal low-maintenance.

  • Skip the “just-in-case” moves. If something’s working, keep it consistent.


Enjoy Your Break!

Even with the best prep, a yellowing leaf or slightly thirsty plant can happen – and that’s okay. Most tropicals bounce back quickly with a good drink and stable conditions.

But remember, our plants are more resilient than we might think!

We hope this guide helps you out this summer! As always, if you have any questions or issues with your plants, feel free to drop us an email at hello@growtropicals.com. 







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