- 1). Buy the right plants. Some plants require much less water than others and thrive on benign neglect. Consider medium-sized plants like aloe, snake or jade for tabletop accents. For hanging baskets, wax plants require infrequent watering and produce a fragrant flower. If you're looking for a large, tree-like house plant, ponytail palms can grow up to 18 feet in a large enough container. For the most forgetful of plant owners, cacti can survive weeks without water.
- 2). Arrange your plants for maximum humidity. Cluster your plants together so they can take advantage of the increased humidity given off by evaporation. And keep them out of intense sunlight. Most houseplants--even those that require lots of sunlight--prefer diffused rather than direct sunlight.
- 3). Use the right soil. Potting soil mixes that contain water-retaining crystals reduce your watering chores. These polymers hold and release water as the plant requires it. Alternatively, water-absorbing mats can be cut to fit and placed in the bottom of the pot.
- 4). Increase humidity with gravel bowls. Most indoor plants sit in saucers to collect excess water. Increase the humidity around your plants and reduce watering frequency by using larger saucers filled with gravel. The water evaporates slowly, creating a healthy level of humidity for your plants.
- 5). Choose your pot carefully. A too-small pot will dry out quickly and unglazed clay pots dry out more quickly than glazed ceramic.
- 6). Use an automatic waterer when you are traveling. There are a variety of styles available, from simple push-in cups to elaborate systems that connect to your water supply.
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