Have you ever gone on vacation worrying that your plants might wither in your absence? There are many solutions to avoid having to go back to water them.
Steps
Step 1. Water them well before your departure and upon your arrival
You need to know how many days your soil can withstand without water, based on climatic conditions. Maybe you already know this based on your experiences.
- Plant drought tolerant plants and varieties that don't need a lot of water.
- Water mature plants outdoors abundantly less frequently before you leave. Thus their roots will be deeper and they will be able to last longer without water.
Step 2. Use water balls to water the plants
These are glass spheres to be filled with water that will be used to water the plants.
Step 3. Build a container to water the plants planted in the pots
Step 4. Build a dripping tube
Place a bottle or bucket of water on a stable surface or table. Extend the tubing from this container to the plants that need water. The capillary action will slowly bring the water from the tubes to the vessels.
Step 5. Install a sprinkler system, timer or something similar
Automatic irrigation doesn't have to be sophisticated. You can use a simple rubber water hose with holes in the right place and connect it to a tap with a timer.
Make a hole in a bottle cap
Step 6. Ask a friend or neighbor to water your plants
- Leave written instructions for dosing and how often to water them.
- Reduce visits. Can your plants last an extra day?
- Return the favor to the neighbors when they leave.
- Don't expect your neighbors to be gardeners and know how to protect fragile plants from frost or how to do maintenance. Leave simple and easy to follow instructions.
Advice
- Try your watering techniques before you go on vacation. You don't want to go back and find your wilted plants!
- The water will last longer if you bring the plants inside your home.
- Water balls can be expensive, so perhaps it's best to find a different alternative.
- The watering container works best with a clay pot on a tray.
Warnings
- Be careful when you tell someone that you will be away for some time.
- These tips won't help water your plants for life!
