When we have a garden or indoor plants, it is difficult for us to be away for a long time. Indeed, some plants like humidity and need to be watered regularly. Without watering, they can dry out and wilt, especially in hot weather. So that this watering question no longer worries you, why not make self-watering pots? We tell you more in this article.
Plants need regular watering, otherwise they will wilt. So that your plants never run out of water, especially your seedlings, you can make self-watering pots.
How to make a self-watering pot from a plastic bottle for your seedlings and plants?
Take a clean, dry plastic bottle and cut it 2/3 down from the base, using a sharp knife. Both bases will be used to prepare a self-watering pot.
Cut a plastic bottle in half – Source: spm
Unscrew the cap and drill a hole in the center. Take a string the same size as the bottle, fold it in half, and pass it through the hole. Tie the end inside the cap and screw the cap back on. Fill the bottom part of the bottle with water, then turn the top part of the bottle upside down, the cap down and insert it into the bottom part. Make sure the string is soaked in water. Fill the top of the bottle with potting soil, and plant your seeds. Thanks to this trick, you will quickly get young shoots. Indeed, the plastic bottle allows to maintain the heat, as would a greenhouse. As for the twine, it keeps the soil constantly moist. Your plants will be able to grow, without suffering from drought, even if it is hot.
Self-watering pot – Source: spm
You can transplant your plants in the ground or in pots, provided that the seedlings reach about 10 cm in height. The season must also be suitable for planting.
In addition, the self-watering pot is not suitable for all plants. Indeed, those who do not like having their roots constantly wet may suffer from excess humidity. This is also the case with succulents , which have a limited need for water. Indeed, these succulents have the ability to store water, thanks to their fleshy tissues. They can survive in dry and arid climates. On the other hand, plants that require frequent watering, such as geraniums and roses, will do well in a self-watering pot.
To keep your plants hydrated even when you’re away, you can consider another solution: make an automatic watering system that allows drip irrigation from a plastic bottle.
How to install drip irrigation from a plastic bottle for your plants?
Take a 1.5 L plastic bottle for potted plants, or 5 L for your garden or vegetable patch plants. Unscrew the cap and pierce it in the center. Then fill the bottle with water and put the cap back on. All you have to do is turn it over and push the neck into the ground. This drip irrigation must be installed a few days before your departure. This will allow you to check the water flow and change the opening of the hole if necessary. In addition, this drip irrigation, also called micro-irrigation, is an economical watering system.
What are the tips for successfully watering plants?
When you have a garden or simply indoor green plants, it is important to pay attention to the foliage of the plants. The state of the leaves lets you know if the plant is under- or over-watered. Too much water can be fatal for your plant. Its leaves soften and turn yellow. Also, the roots suffocate and rot. Not to mention that excess humidity favors the attacks of insects and parasites. Hence the importance of removing stagnant water from the saucer or cache-pot after each watering.
Under water stress, plant foliage may turn yellow. The leaves become sagging, and may curl up on themselves, depending on the variety.
Watering the seedlings – Source: spm
It is also advisable to adapt the watering according to the needs of the plant and according to the seasons. Plants need less water in winter than in summer. To know if you need to water your plant, check the substrate, if it is dry to the touch, the plant needs water.
And finally, always water your plant with water at room temperature, preferably non-calcareous, such as rainwater. Very cold or hot water can cause thermal shock to the plant and damage its root system.
Thanks to these easy tips, your plants will never be dehydrated!
