When it’s time for a holiday getaway, making arrangements for kids and pets is part of the planning, but making sure your plants stay hydrated while you’re away is another challenge. Plant care is crucial, especially when you are away. If you’re thinking about how to keep your green friends fed, we have a variety of solutions. Discover eight clever ways to water your plants that are easy, inexpensive, and that you probably already have at home.
So enjoy your well-deserved break knowing that your plants will thrive when you return.
8 Tactics for Plant Hydration When You’re Away from Home
For those who use a hydroponic system, caring for holiday plants is not a problem. However, the rest of us who rely on traditional gardening methods need to make sure our plants stay hydrated. Here’s how to keep her happy while you enjoy your vacation.
1. Recycle a wine bottle.
Give up the idea of buying special irrigation balls. Instead, an empty wine bottle can serve as an effective self-watering device for indoor and outdoor pots.
Necessary items:
- Empty wine bottle with screw cap or cork
- Nail or sharp skewer
- Your chosen plant
- Water
Setup process:
Make sure the bottle is clean and free of alcohol residue. Make a small hole in the top, fill it with water, and insert it into the moist soil of your potted plant.
2. Bury a plastic bottle
This method releases the water gradually, ideal for larger outdoor plants.
Necessary items:
- Plastic water bottles
- Nagel
- Attachment
- Water
Setup process:
Poke a few holes in the bottle, bury it near your plants, and then fill it with water after initially watering your plants in the usual way.
3. Use the string method.
A simple string can provide your plants with moisture without requiring additional soil space.
Necessary items:
- Thick cotton cord
- Scissors
- Bowl
- Water
- Attachment
Assembly process:
Stretch a cotton string from the water bowl to the soil of the plant so that the water can flow up the string and into the soil.
4. Water saucer method:
It can be helpful to place a filled water saucer under your pot, but be careful not to overwater.
Necessary items:
- Saucer/tray
- Water
- potted plant
Setup Process:
Place a saucer filled with water under your pot so the plant can absorb moisture when needed.
5. Build a mini greenhouse.
You can create a moisture-rich environment for your plant using a plastic bag and a few skewers.
Necessary items:
- Plastic bag or film
- Attachment
- Water
- Bamboo skewers (optional)
Setup process:
Water the plant, cover it with a plastic bag and seal it to catch evaporating moisture.
6. Opt for self-watering planters.
For a hassle-free approach, these planters have a built-in watering mechanism.
Necessary items:
- Self-watering planter
- Attachment
- Water
Setup process:
Install your plant in the planter, fill the container and let the system do the rest.
7. Invest in a drip irrigation system.
This system is ideal for expansive gardens and can be automated to ensure consistent hydration.
Necessary items:
- Drip irrigation system
- Timer
Setup Process:
Install the system, connect it to a water source with a timer, and program it to meet the specific needs of your plants.
8. Arrange a plant sitter.
If you are going to be away for a long time, enlisting the help of a friend or neighbor may be the best option.
Necessary items:
- A plant-loving friend
Setup process:
Agree on a watering schedule with your friend and consider a thoughtful gift as a token of appreciation for their help.
With these strategies you can start your vacation with peace of mind and be sure that your green friends are doing well even in your absence.”