How to Water Plants When You're Gone

Whether you're planning a vacation or you'll be away from home for an extended period of time, keeping your plants hydrated is a concern. Fortunately, there are several solutions that can help you care for your plants even when you can't be there to water them regularly.

Use Self-Watering Pots

One easy solution is to use self-watering pots. These containers have a reservoir built in, so you can fill them with water before you leave, and they will gradually release moisture to your plants as needed. You can find a variety of self-watering pots in garden centers and online.

Set Up a Drip Irrigation System

If you have a large number of plants, you can set up a drip irrigation system to keep them hydrated. This system uses a timer to release water slowly through a network of tubes and nozzles, allowing your plants to receive a steady supply of water over an extended period of time. You can purchase drip irrigation kits at home improvement stores.

Recruit a Friend or Neighbor

If you have a friend or neighbor who is willing to help out, you can ask them to water your plants while you're away. Be sure to give them specific instructions on how much water each plant needs and how often they should be watered. You can also offer to reciprocate by caring for their plants when they go on vacation.

Use Watering Spikes

Watering spikes are another option for keeping your plants hydrated. These devices are inserted into the soil and work by slowly releasing water directly to the roots of your plants. They come in different sizes and can be purchased at garden centers and online.

Set Up a DIY Wicking System

You can also create a DIY wicking system to keep your plants hydrated. This system uses a wick to draw water from a container to the soil, providing your plants with a steady supply of moisture. To make a wicking system, you'll need a container with a lid, a piece of string or yarn, and potting soil. Cut the string so that one end touches the bottom of the container and the other end is placed in the soil next to your plant. Fill the container with water and place the lid on top, leaving a small opening for the string to pass through.

Conclusion

With these solutions, you can keep your plants thriving even when you're away from home. Try one or several of these methods to find the solution that works best for your plants and your schedule. With a little bit of planning, you can leave home worry-free, knowing that your plants will be well taken care of.