Creative Solutions for Balcony Plant Care on Holiday
Many balcony gardeners face the challenge of keeping their plants healthy when they go on vacations. Without daily care, your greenery might suffer due to lack of water. However, there are numerous creative and simple methods to address this issue. In this article, we will explore three effective solutions that require minimal effort and equipment.
Soda Bottle Watering Method
One clever and trouble-free approach is to use a soda bottle as a self-watering device. Fill a liter soda bottle with water and carefully insert it into the soil next to your plants. This bottle will bubble occasionally as water seeps into the soil, compensating for dry conditions. When the soil is no longer enough to plug the bottle's opening, approximately two tablespoons of water will seep in. This method can last for at least a couple of days, and you can extend the duration by using a larger 2-liter soda bottle if needed.
Considering you may be away for an extended period, relying on a neighbor or hoping for a rainy spell might not be reliable. Therefore, investing in an automated watering system can provide peace of mind throughout your absence. Setting up a mechanical or automatic watering timer to your faucet, combined with a soaker hose or gardening hose, can ensure your plants receive a steady supply of water. It’s preferable to set these systems to water your plants around 5 AM, which is much less likely to be interrupted by daily activities. This system has proven to be a valuable asset, making my garden thrive while I am traveling.
Tray Method for Extended Watering
A tried and tested method for long-term plant care is the tray setup. Lumber yards often stock small cement mixing trays, ranging from 6 inches to 8 inches deep, depending on the number of plants you have. Get pots that are at least 12 inches high and repot your plants into them. The additional 4 inches above the tray height ensures proper drainage, allowing some of the root zone to remain dry. Place the tall pots in the cement tray on your balcony, and water them to a depth of 8 inches.
By setting up this method well ahead of your vacation, you can estimate how long your plants can go without further watering. If it rains during your trip, it can extend the duration even further. I have found that I can typically go at least two weeks without manual intervention. However, some drought-resistant plants like aloes and mother-in-law’s tongue may last even longer. Setting up a dozen or more of these plant trays ensures I always have a supply ready.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the soda bottle method for quick, simple, and low-maintenance plant care, or the tray setup for longer-term sustenance, these methods can help keep your balcony garden flourishing while you are away. Automated systems and tray arrangements offer reliable solutions, ensuring your green thumb continues to flourish.