Keep plants watered and healthy while on holiday this summer using two recycled items
There is a simple way to keep gardens and houseplants watered this summer with this simple no-hands approach, which is perfect for anyone going away on holiday.
Watering plants is one of the most important jobs to do in summer to keep gardens or houseplants healthy, but it can be difficult to do if you're going away on holiday or busy.
Higher temperatures at this time of year mean plants need much more water as it is more likely to evaporate, and if neglected they can become heat-stressed, not producing flowers and fruit or even die off in a short amount of time.
Many people ask their neighbours or loved ones to check in on their houseplants or gardens, but famed gardener David Domoney has shared there is a much easier solution using only a few items you likely already have in your home.
He said: “No matter how long your holiday will be, there are methods to use to keep your plants healthy until your return home.
“Many can even be done using recycled materials from around the house. So there’s no need to break the bank.”
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Use the water bottle method to water gardens
One of the most effective ways to water the garden if you are not there is to use a large plastic water bottle, as you can turn it into a homemade irrigation system that will slowly water plants at a steady pace.
All you have to do is poke two holes in the bottom of the bottle and three to five holes on one side of the bottle, then place it in the soil next to your plant up to the neck.
Make sure the bottle holes are facing your plant, fill the bottle with water and pat the soil around the bottle so it is firmly in place.
David said: “You can replace the lid if you want to slow down the water rate or leave it off if you are only going away for a short period.
“Check back after a few hours to make sure a little of the water has drained away – if no water has drained out, loosen the cap a little. If too much water has drained away, tighten the cap.”
This slow drip method allows moisture to gradually seep into the soil and cuts back on waste as it directly waters the roots, making it a very low-maintenance and cheap way to care for plants.
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Use the wine bottle method to water houseplants
One very effective way to water unattractive indoor plants is the wine watering method, but if you have a smaller plant it may be best to use a beer or cider bottle.
All you need to do is wash out a bottle and fill it up with water. Place your thumb over the top of the bottle and flip it over, then bury the neck of the bottle into the soil of your houseplant.
The neck should be able to stand by itself and be firmly wedged into the soil to make sure it is secure.
David said: “Come back a few hours later to check the water is draining properly – if the water level is still in the same place then the soil may be blocking the bottle. Take the bottle out and insert it again.”
Both these simple methods will keep plants watered and healthy for up to one week so you can enjoy the summer without stressing about water schedules.
However, it is best to give all plants a thorough watering before you go on holiday or use these methods and also try to move plants as much into the shade as possible if you can.
