Caring for Plants in an RV
TL;DR: - Growing plants in RVs combines travel and indoor gardening. - Start with easy-care varieties like pothos, succulents, or snake plants. - Use vertical space: hang plants or mount them on walls. - Secure plants on countertops or create custom shelves for stability. - Consider each plant's lighting and adjust placement as needed. - Add greenery for a cozier RV, or go faux for less upkeep!
With the rising popularity amongst the world of RVing comes many different types of RVers. Some may occasionally travel for a few days at a time, while others might decide to travel full-time. Other RVers might prefer to take longer trips of a few months, while still eventually returning to their traditional home, while many others choose to live in their RV in a stationary location.
The pull towards living in an RV for longer periods of time has inspired many to try their hand at indoor gardening and caring for plants in their RV. While some may find it silly to consider growing plants inside of a moving vehicle, many travelers have found a way to make this work, allowing the passions of gardening and travel to come together. If you are a more long-term traveler and want to add some green friends to your home on wheels, then consider the tips below for ways to get started!
1. Try easier varieties
One of the greatest challenges of growing plants in an RV is the changing climates. Some species are very specific about the amount of humidity they need for optimum condition, while others have lower humidity requirements.
Easier varieties include philodendrons/pothos and all their variations, succulents, Sansevierias (also known as the snake plant), and ZZ plants. These all grow well in environments without perfect lighting, humidity, and a consistent climate.
Once you have mastered caring for these easier plant varieties, you may wish to move on to more difficult or needy varieties, such as Monsteras, fiddle-leaf figs, birds of paradise, and other leafy tropicals.
2. Hang plants
Since RVs tend to lack both counter space and floor space, fitting plants into your vertical space can often be your best bet. Many RVs have plenty of unused corners and spaces where beautiful greenery can hang and thrive. Bathroom corners can often work in any RV, and cabover areas might be an excellent place to hang plants in some motorhomes.