Potted plants usually need to be watered more often than similar plants in beds. This is because there is limited space in the tub and the roots cannot absorb moisture deep in the soil.

Drip irrigation is also a good idea for potted plants

Are there different irrigation systems for potted plants

There are many different ways to water potted plants. A distinction must be made between systems that are connected to the water pipe or a water tap and those that work with a water reservoir.

The prices for the different systems vary considerably, because some work fully automatically, others are easy to make yourself. Which system is right for you depends on the local conditions, your budget and the duration of the irrigation.

Various irrigation systems for balcony and potted plants:

  • Flower boxes (€16.99) or buckets with water storage
  • Drip irrigation with water pipe
  • fully automatic irrigation system
  • Thread irrigation (self-made)
  • homemade water tank
  • Irrigation using PET bottle(s)

Buy irrigation systems

You can buy systems for watering balcony and potted plants for just a few euros from specialist retailers. These are planters with built-in water storage. Depending on the quality and equipment, you can also pay a multiple for it.

Drip irrigation systems do not necessarily have to be expensive either. Depending on the variant, they are connected to a water tank or directly to the tap of your line and work with a hose. In this way, several plants are watered at the same time. Fully automatic irrigation systems are associated with the highest costs. An installation just for the annual holiday is hardly worthwhile, but it can also relieve you of the watering all year round.

Build your own irrigation system

Homemade watering systems can be extremely inexpensive, like watering with a bottle. Other variants are a bit more complex. These include thread irrigation or the self-built water reservoir.

Most methods are more suitable for a weekend trip or short vacation. Plants do not survive a longer journey as well. However, you can also reduce the water requirement somewhat by placing your potted plants in a more shady place.

(Almost) free - watering with (waste) bottle

The cheapest option for watering is probably an old PET bottle. You choose the size according to the water requirements of your container plant or according to the duration of your vacation. Just drill a small hole in the bottle cap, fill the bottle with water.

Insert the tightly closed bottle, cap down, into the soil close to the plant to be watered. The size of the hole in the lid determines how much water is dispensed. Make sure that the bottle cannot tip over while you are away, otherwise your plant will die of thirst and that would be a shame.

tips

Before you go on holiday, be sure to test whether the amount of water your system releases is right for your plants. You may have to "adjust" something.

Category:

Indoor plants