Tips and tricks for watering plants on holiday
Watering while on holiday can be a challenge, but there are DIY methods to ensure your plants are well cared for.
Plant irrigation for short journeys
Before going on holiday, water the flowers and other plants well again and place them in the shade to minimise evaporation. The easy way: ask friends or neighbours. However, it is essential to give clear instructions on the amount of water and frequency to ensure that watering the flowers on holiday is successful.
Plant watering for longer journeys
If your holiday is longer and your friends don't have time, you need another solution for watering your plants on holiday. One simple option, for example, is drip irrigation using empty plastic bottles. The water is slowly released into the soil through small holes in the bottle cap.
Use filtered rainwater:
If you want to do something good for your beloved plants - not just when you're away on holiday, but in general, then we recommend using filtered rainwater for watering plants. Rainwater is free from the chemicals and salts found in tap water and contains valuable nutrients that promote plant growth. Find out more about rainwater utilisation and how you can water your plants with rainwater all year round.
Water plants individually
When it comes to watering your plants and flowers on holiday, it's important to understand that each plant has individual needs. Flowers, houseplants and garden plants have different water requirements and it is crucial to take these into account.
Know your water requirements:
Every plant needs different amounts of water. Some plants, such as succulents, only need occasional watering, while others, such as tomato plants, require regular watering. Before you go on holiday, you should therefore find out the specific water requirements of your plants.
Avoid overwatering:
More water is not always better. Overwatering your plants can be just as damaging as underwatering. It is important to find the right amount of moisture for each plant to keep them healthy.
Automatic watering systems for plants
Flowers and plants need regular watering, especially in summer. If you don't have time to look after your plants every day, you can use automatic watering systems. These systems can be set to deliver just the right amount of water so that your plants are always sufficiently watered.
Watering with a plastic bottle
An easy way to water your plants and flowers while on holiday is to use plastic bottles. This DIY method is inexpensive and effective.
Functionality:
Drill a hole at least four millimetres in size into the unscrewed lid of a plastic bottle. The bottle is then placed upside down in the flower pot or the soil near your plants. The water flows slowly out of the bottle and provides the plants with the moisture they need while you are away. This DIY bottle watering method is simple and practical.
Bottle size:
The size of the bottle depends on how long you will be away and the water requirements of your plants. Larger bottles hold more water and are ideal for longer holiday periods. Watering with a PET bottle is particularly practical for longer journeys.
Watering with watering cord or watering hose
Watering your houseplants while on holiday can be as simple as using a watering cord. This efficient approach ensures that your plants receive sufficient moisture around the clock.
How it works:
The watering cord is inserted into the bottom of the flower pot or plant container. The other end of the cord is placed in a water container, such as a bucket or bottle of water. The cord serves as a connection that continuously transports water to the roots of your plants. Watering plants with a cord is particularly suitable for houseplants.
Capillary action:
The watering cord works on the principle of capillary action. It gradually absorbs water from the container and releases it to the plant. For this purpose, the container should be placed in an elevated position in relation to the plant pot.
Watering with clay cones
Another option for watering your plants on holiday is to use clay cones. These useful devices keep the soil constantly moist and ensure that your plants do not dry out.
How it works:
A clay cone is a porous, cone-shaped hollow body that is inserted into the soil near your plants. The clay cone is filled with water and slowly releases this water when the soil becomes dry. Watering with clay cones is a reliable method for watering plants on holiday.
Where to buy:
Clay cones are available from garden centres and online. They are a practical and effective way to water your plants on holiday.
Cutting back balcony plants
Cutting back balcony plants has the advantage that the plants need less water. By removing excess foliage and non-flowering flowers, you significantly reduce the water requirements of your plants. Well-pruned plants can survive a little longer without watering. This makes watering the balcony on holiday easier.
Automatic irrigation system with timer
A timer allows you to automate watering. The system consists of a timer and a solenoid valve, which is switched on and off by the timer. When the timer is activated, the valve is opened and water runs out of the tap. The water is then transported to the plants via an arranged hose system. Automatic watering for houseplants and the garden is particularly practical.
Complete devices:
Automatic irrigation systems are available to buy individually from various manufacturers. The complete devices are usually programmable and switch the watering process on and off automatically. This means you can set off on holiday with peace of mind. Such watering systems are ideal for potted plants and other plants in your garden.
Tip:
Use filtered rainwater to water your plants. Our WISY systems offer the ideal solution for this by filtering rainwater and treating it for garden irrigation. You can find more information about our products in the rainwater filter section.