Set Up a Drip or Soaker Hose Irrigation System
One of the best ways to keep plants watered is to install a drip or soaker hose irrigation system. These systems provide a slow, steady supply of water directly to plant roots via a network of tubing and emitters. Drip irrigation is very efficient, using 20-50% less water than sprinklers. The tubing can be snaked around plants, bushes and trees, delivering water right where it’s needed. Put the system on an automatic timer so it waters at set intervals while you’re gone.
Materials Needed
- Drip tubing or soaker hose
- Emitters and micro-sprayers
- Timer
- Pipe connectors
- Hose splitter/coupler
- Hose faucet adapter
- Gardening scissors
Setting It Up
- Layout the tubing around plants and flower beds. Emitters can be placed by each plant.
- Connect tubing to timer following manufacturer instructions.
- Program timer to water for 10-15 minutes a few times a week. Adjust as needed.
- Test system to check for leaks before leaving.
Use Self-Watering Devices
Self-watering devices like terra cotta water spikes, ollas and sub-irrigated planters utilize the power of gravity to gradually release water to plant roots.
Water Spikes
- Fill terra cotta water spikes or plastic water reservoirs with water.
- Place spikes near plants, pushing into soil.
- Water slowly seeps into soil through clay as soil dries out.
- Check spikes are full before leaving.
Ollas
- An unglazed terra cotta vessel with a narrow neck.
- Bury olla next to plant with neck just above soil.
- Fill olla with water. It will slowly seep into soil.
- Use multiple ollas for large plants.
Sub-Irrigated Planters
- Fill a reservoir at the base of the planter with water.
- Soil draws up only the water it needs via gravity and capillary action.
- Check water levels before leaving.
Use Hydrogels and Water Retention Crystals
Sprinkle hydrogel beads or water retention crystals into planters and around plants. These absorbent polymers can hold hundreds of times their weight in water. When added to soil, they absorb and store water, releasing it gradually to plant roots, keeping soil consistently moist.
- Mix them into soil when potting or transplanting plants.
- For established plants, scratch crystals into top few inches of soil.
- Water crystals thoroughly before leaving so they are fully expanded.
Group Plants Together
Grouping pots together into one shaded area can allow you to focus watering efforts into one spot. The surrounding pots will create additional humidity. Choose an area that gets sunlight but avoid hot, dry spots. Use taller plants to shade smaller ones.
- Move pots to a shaded patio, under trees or an overhang.
- Consider putting pots on capillary mats or trays filled with pebbles to create additional humidity.
- For in-ground plants, concentrate on thoroughly watering one general area rather than scattering efforts.
Consider Rain Barrels or Cisterns
Collecting rainwater in a covered barrel or cistern provides a free natural source of water for plants. Connect a hose to release water as needed while away. Just an inch of rain can fill up a 50-60 gallon rain barrel.
- Place barrel under a downspout or surface runoff area.
- Install a rain diverter to direct flow into the barrel.
- Use for outdoor plants only, not for drinking.
Mulch Beds and Planters
Applying 3-4 inches of organic mulch like bark chips, pine needles or wood chips helps retain moisture in soil so plants need less frequent watering. Mulch insulates soil, slows evaporation and prevents weeds.
- Spread mulch around plants, trees and shrubs, keeping it a few inches from stems.
- For potted plants, top pots with mulch leaving space around plant stem.
- Replenish mulch annually as it decomposes.
Adjust Watering Before Leaving
- Thoroughly saturate soil and let excess drain before leaving.
- Harvest vegetables/fruits so plants aren???t using energy on them.
- Remove weeds competing for water.
- Group container plants close together in shade to retain moisture.
- Check for leaks and ensure irrigation systems are working properly.
Have a Neighbor/Caretaker Water
If you’ll be gone for an extended period, it’s best to have someone come periodically to water and check on plants. Give them a key and instructions like:
- How much and how often to water specific plants.
- Tips for checking soil moisture.
- Irrigation system instructions if applicable.
- Contact info in case they have questions.
- Offer to water their plants in return!
Other Creative Solutions
Get creative with these unusual techniques for keeping plants hydrated:
- Submerge potted plants in buckets or larger containers of water for a slow soak.
- Use glass or plastic bottles upside down in pots. Fill with water so it slowly drips into soil.
- Take advantage of the “ketchup cup effect” by placing cups filled with water in pots. The water wicks through the cup into the soil.
- Set plants in dishes or trays filled with pebbles and water so the pots soak it up.
- Hang plastic gallon bags that slowly weep water into pots below.
Before Leaving
- Inspect plants and remove dead or damaged foliage and stems.
- Check for signs of disease/pests and treat if necessary.
- Ensure all equipment (hoses, timers, etc) is in working order.
- Prepare self-watering devices and fill reservoirs.
- Water plants thoroughly and let soil drain.
- Top up mulch around plants if needed.
- Place sensitive potted plants together in a shady spot.
Upon Returning
- Inspect plants for signs of underwatering like wilting, dry soil, yellowing.
- Check self-watering devices and irrigation systems. Refill and reset as needed.
- Remove any weeds that have grown.
- Resume normal watering routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water outdoor plants before leaving?
- Thoroughly saturate soil 1-2 days before leaving so it’s moist but not soggy. Water again on day of departure if soil is dry.
What’s the best self-watering device for container plants?
- Ollas and terra cotta water spikes work well for potted plants. Ensure they’re filled before leaving.
How do I set up a simple drip irrigation system?
- Use 1/4″ drip tubing, punch in emitters for each plant, connect to timer and water source. Run system to test before leaving.
What plants need the most frequent watering?
- Shallow-rooted plants like annuals, vegetables, herbs and perennials need more water. Prioritize watering these.
How often should someone come water plants?
- For trips 2 weeks or less, aim for 1-2 thorough waterings. For longer trips, every 5-7 days is better.
What are signs my plants need more water?
- Wilting, drooping leaves, dry soil more than 2 inches down, yellowing leaves. Take steps upon returning to rehydrate.
Conclusion
Keeping plants consistently hydrated when you’re away during vacations or work trips takes some preparation but is definitely achievable. Utilizing efficient irrigation systems, self-watering devices, mulch and smart watering techniques will help ensure your plants stay healthy while you’re away. Group plants together, harvest produce, treat pests/disease, and inspect watering systems before locking up. With a reliable caretaker or the proper setup, you can return home to thriving outdoor plants.