How Can I Water Plants While Away

If you're planning to travel or be away from home for an extended period, it's essential to ensure your plants receive sufficient water and nutrients. While hiring someone to water your plants is an option, these tips will help you water your plants before leaving and ensure they remain healthy while you are away.

1. Choose the Right Watering Method

The first step in watering your plants while you are away is to choose the right watering method. There are different methods available, including wick watering, self-watering containers, drip irrigation, and deep watering. Consider the type of plants you have and their watering requirements when selecting a watering method.

2. Water the Plants Before Leaving

Before leaving, ensure your plants are thoroughly watered. This ensures they have adequate moisture to sustain them over an extended period. Watering your plants a day or two before you leave allows the soil to absorb the water and for any excess water to drain away before your departure.

3. Cover the Soil with Mulch

Covering the soil with mulch helps retain moisture and prevent evaporation. You can use organic mulch like grass clippings or compost to provide nutrients to your plants, or inorganic mulch like stones or gravel to reduce evaporation rates.

4. Use Watering Bulbs

Watering bulbs are exceptional tools you can use to water your plants while you are away. These bulbs keep the soil moist by releasing water over an extended period. You only need to fill the bulb with water and insert it into the soil, and it slowly releases water to the plant roots.

5. Ask Someone to Water Your Plants

If none of the above methods works for your plants, it may be necessary to ask someone to water your plants while you are away. Get someone you trust and who understands the watering requirements of each plant. Provide them with a detailed watering schedule and instructions to follow while you are away.

6. Create a Self-Watering System

You can create a self-watering system by using materials readily available like plastic bottles, ropes or strings, and wicks. Cut the plastic bottle into half and insert the string or wick through the bottle cap. Place the bottle with the cap facing down into the soil and ensure the wick touches the soil. Fill the bottle with water and leave it to self-water the plant while you are away.

Conclusion

Watering your plants while you are away takes a bit of planning and preparation. With the right watering method and a self-watering system, your plants can remain healthy and hydrated while you are away. By following the tips above, you can help your plants survive and ensure they thrive upon your return.