How to Water Your Plants While Away DIY

Plants are a great way to bring life to any home. However, taking care of them can be challenging, especially when going on a vacation or a business trip. While plant sitters are an option, not everyone has the luxury of hiring one. In this article, we will show you how to water your plants while away DIY.

1. Self-Watering System

The most straightforward and widely used method of watering plants while away is by setting up a self-watering system. You can make your own with materials readily available in most hardware stores or buy ready-made kits. To construct one, you will need:

A large water container such as a plastic bucket or a reservoir

A length of tubing material (PVC pipe or a water-safe hose)

A drill (for making holes in the container and watering stakes)

Watering stakes (to direct water to the plants' roots)

To make your self-watering system:

Drill three to five small holes near the bottom of the bucket.

Cut the tubing material to the length needed, depending on the size of the container.

Place one end of the tube into the holes you created in the bucket.

Drill small holes on one end of each watering stake, and place the other end of the tube through the hole.

Insert the stakes into each plant pot, ensuring that they reach deep enough to deliver water to the roots.

Add water to the container, and the water will gradually release into the soil by capillary action, meaning your plants will get water as needed.

2. Watering Globe

Another useful tool for watering plants while away is a watering globe. These glass bulbs beautify your plants while giving them the water they need.

To use a watering globe:

Fill the bulb with water.

Place the tip of the watering globe into the soil, close to the plant's root.

The soil will pull water from the bulb as the plant needs it.

Refill the bulb as necessary.

3. Drip Irrigation System

Drip irrigation is an excellent long-term option to keep your plants hydrated. Though it requires a bit more work to set up, it is inexpensive and suitable for plants of all sizes.

You will need the following:

A length of tubing material

Irrigation drippers for each plant pot

Clamps for securing the tubing material

A water timer (optional but recommended for automatic watering)

To set up a drip irrigation system:

Cut the tubing material into lengths to reach all the plants.

Attach an irrigation dripper to each pot.

Connect the tubing to the water source using clamps, ensuring that it is secure and does not leak.

If using a timer, set it up and test it to ensure that the system works correctly.

Adjust the flow rate of the drippers, according to your plants' needs, and let the system run as needed.

Conclusion

Plants are an excellent addition to any home, but they require care and attention that can be challenging to provide when you're away. Thankfully, setting up a self-watering system, using a watering globe, or creating a drip irrigation system means you can ensure their well-being, even when you're not there. So go ahead, plan that trip, and breathe easy knowing that your plants will thrive in your absence.