floradania.dk 27/2013

Article: Easy holiday plants are a neighbourly help
It’s a good turn, and community-minded, for neighbours to help each other out. But is also a delicate balance not to impose on your neighbour too much. If you make caring for your plants during your holiday super easy, the help will be mutual

It is a neighbourly gesture to help to make your neighbour's home look lived in while the residents are away. One of the things that really creates life in and around the house are potted plants, but if they are drooping and looking a little weary, it can have the opposite effect. 
Luckily, there are houseplants that are so easy to care for that your neighbours will only need to drop in once in a while during your holiday. As an added plus, the leafy creatures create a pleasant and fresh indoor environment to greet you when you arrive home refreshed and relaxed from a holiday. 
Succulents
Within the group of green plants, succulents are one type that can tolerate drying out between waterings. These decorative and lush plants store water in fleshy leaves, which gives them resilience when the family is away on holiday. 

Minimal care 
Echeveria, a rosette succulent, can easily cope with a whole summer holiday without much looking after. In fact, it is important that Echeveria is allowed to dry out thoroughly between waterings, if you want to keep it from withering. For this reason Echeveria also suitable for holiday homes, where it can fend for itself for shorter or longer periods.

Peperomia 
Peperomia or radiator plant is another group of decorative green plants that do not mind being left to themselves for a while. Peperomia thrives best in a bright place, but does not tolerate direct sunlight. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not sopping wet – so here, too, your neighbour will not be overburdened with extra chores. 

Hardy and popular
Plants like Sansevieria, mother-in-law’s tongue, can cope with up to a month without water, while the popular Phalaenopsis orchid can easily survive a holiday period with water once a week. 

Colourful elements 
One of the more colourful suggestions for easy holiday plants is Tradescantia, with its characteristic and beautiful variegated leaves in several colour varieties. This is a durable and easy potted plant, which has no problem being alone home for a longer period. 
So if you have chosen to populate your house with plants that are easy to care for, looking after them will not get in the way of your holiday dreams, and you can go away with a clear conscience – both with regard to your houseplants and your neighbours.