How to Water Plants While You Are Away

Plants need water to survive, but what do you do when you are going away for a few days or even a few weeks? You don't want to come back to find all of your beloved plants wilted and dead. Fortunately, there are several ways to water plants while you are away, and you can choose the method that works best for you and your plants.

Method 1: Use Self-Watering Containers

One of the easiest ways to water plants while you are away is to use self-watering containers. These containers have a built-in reservoir that holds water, and the plant's roots pull water from the reservoir as needed. You can purchase self-watering containers at your local garden center, or you can make your own by adding a wick, such as a piece of cotton rope, from the reservoir to the soil. Simply fill the reservoir with water before you leave, and your plants will stay hydrated until you return.

Method 2: Use a Drip Irrigation System

Drip irrigation systems are another option for watering plants while you are away. These systems use a network of small tubes and drippers to deliver water directly to the plant's roots, reducing the amount of water lost to evaporation. You can purchase a drip irrigation system at your local garden center or online. If you have a small number of plants, you can also make your own drip irrigation system using a plastic bottle with holes drilled into it. Fill the bottle with water, and place it near the plants to deliver a slow, steady flow of water.

Method 3: Use a Soaker Hose

A soaker hose is a long, flexible tube with tiny holes punched into it that allows water to seep out slowly and evenly. You can wrap the hose around the base of your plants and turn on the water before you leave. The water will seep slowly into the soil over time, keeping your plants well-hydrated. Make sure the soaker hose is positioned close to the plants' roots for maximum effectiveness.

Method 4: Get a Plant Sitter

If you have a large number of plants or you are not comfortable setting up an automated watering system, you can hire a plant sitter to take care of your plants while you are away. A plant sitter can water your plants, check for pests and diseases, and even rotate the plants to ensure they are getting enough sunlight. You can find a plant sitter through a service like Rover or Ask for Task, or you can ask a friend or neighbor to help out.

Method 5: Make a DIY Watering Globe

If you are looking for a low-tech solution for watering your plants while you are away, you can make your own DIY watering globe. To make a watering globe, fill a glass bottle with water, and insert the neck of the bottle into the soil near the base of the plant. The water will slowly seep into the soil as needed, keeping your plants well-hydrated. You can also use a wine bottle or a decorative glass bottle to add a touch of style to your garden.

Conclusion

There are many ways to water your plants while you are away, and you can choose the method that works best for you and your plants. Whether you opt for a self-watering container, a drip irrigation system, a soaker hose, a plant sitter, or a DIY watering globe, your plants will stay healthy and happy while you are enjoying your time away. With a little planning and preparation, you can set up a watering system that will keep your plants thriving until you return.