Taking a vacation for most people is a must and there are so many benefits that a holiday can add to your overall health it is priceless. It is a more relaxing time to unwind from all the stress we have unknowingly accumulated and enjoying a bit of paradise is always most welcoming. What makes this time special is being worry free that your home will be well taken care of in your absence and that includes your plants. It is not always convenient to ask a friend or relative to house sit your plants. It means someone has to dedicate their time to make sure your plants are fed at the times you have selected. It can become bothersome and not always pleasant for the caretaker. One of the easiest way to make sure your plant is taken care of is to use a self-watering device that will do the job without a hassle.
What is a Self-Watering Device
This is a system that is organized to function independently by automatically releasing water to the plant using a drip irrigation technique. They are available in many varieties like self-watering globes, spikes, pots, programmable electronic devices, to homemade bottles. Or any solution that can transfer water to the plant easily without being constantly dependent on human hands.
Programmable Devices
I have discovered that when it comes to programmable devices there are many options for different budgets. The distribution of water is done through a drip irrigation which adds water according to how much is required based on your own settings. This is a good method because it helps to avoid over watering which causes issues of soggy soil leading to root rot and other problems. For most plants this is the best solution. I usually water my orchid once a week and this option is good in choosing the days that you need to let your equipment water the plant.
These devices allow the water to be distributed with precision. Just select the time, day and how long it should last, making it one of the best choices for your home needs especially with indoor plants. A careful plan of how the water will be distribute is necessary. Making a sketch either mentally or physically of your layout is important to make sure every plant is being cared for.
Indoor plants constantly need attention in dealing with different conditions like humidity and sunlight in the home. The time spent away from home will be worry free because the equipment will work according to the adjustments made. Not everyone is comfortable using this computer set up and some prefer to invest in what is convenient for their lifestyle and budget.
If you want to invest in less money, there are other devices that works well. Or deciding to make your own self-watering device which will work similar except for delicate plants like orchids or others which needs extra care. As we examine these methods of using the self-watering approaches, we will find both advantages and disadvantages. Your decision to invest in one will depend on your plant needs, your lifestyle and your own personal interest.
Advantages
These equipment provide the gardener with the smart technology where you are able to leave the plants unattended for extended periods of time. This allows a program to operate the devices independently and there is no need to have anyone physically taking care of them.
It is a good method of reducing water consumption. There have been environmental concerns about the overuse of water and this is a useful way in preventing waste. Taking advantage for the easy access to water can cause misuse. Occasionally when watering the garden becomes tiresome the hose is left to keep going for extended periods of time. In this example using the self-watering system helps to reduces the consumption of water so there is little chance of waste.
The self-watering equipment are also a good reminder for anyone who may be forgetful to water their plants when it is due. With this equipment there is seldom a chance for a dry soil, the end results are much healthier plants where their needs are taken care of. Self-watering prevents the ground or soil from dehydration which can cause unhealthy roots or possible allowing the plant to die because of thirst.
The Disadvantages of Self- Watering Devices
While these equipment are trending for gardens they do have some disadvantage. The clear globes are aesthetically beautiful and will surely give your indoor or outdoor garden space that sparkle as they come in varieties of colours like blue, orange clear glass, reds and more. During the hot days where the temperature soars, they can heat up and cause hot water to flow into the pots. You will need to be selective on which plants can tolerate the temperature, and which device is best for the size of the plant. It is possible that due to the size of the plant and the pot the probe will not effectively work in the distribution of water leading to inadequately supplying water to the root system.
Or you can decide to use them on your indoor plants. They will need to be kept out of direct sunlight. If you have misplaced the stoppers, then it will not work. They also tend to build up dirt on the inside so they will need some cleaning after a period of time. Placing them at the right angle is important for water flow. A clog will prevent water from going to the plant.
Most systems are dependent on a reservoir which works as a holding tank for the water that will need to be refilled over a period of time. It you are away for extended periods of time you will need a large enough container to keep the plants hydrated. Or you will be left with the same problem of a dried root and a dead plant.
The probabilities of encountering a blocked tube are possible. Therefore, transporting the water to the plant would be impossible. If that happens it is ground for bacteria and other algae to develop creating unpleasant smells that will affect your plant growth. Also, stagnant water will produce a breeding ground for insets like mosquitoes.
Sensors for any devices fail over a period of time and if you are not pro-active in checking your devices on a regular basic. It may go unnoticed causing bacteria to infiltrate the equipment creating unhealthy plants.
Not every plant is suitable to be placed in a self-watering set up. Plants that are prone to desert climate will not function well like a cactus which requires a dry condition and less water and mostly a dry soil. If you are interested in reading more on the self- watering pots, I wrote an article that you may want to consider for more information, and I have attached the link below.
https://plantsfordecor.com/blogs/articles/plants-that-do-well-in-self-watering-pots
Best Ways to Make Use of Self- Watering Devices
- Select plants that can thrive in a moist soil and avoid those that require little moisture and are prone to a hot desert climate.
- Decide what is best for your own personal plant needs and the space that you can provide. Small spaces will need a specific area attributed to the care of these plants.
- If you spend a lot of time away from the home or take extended vacations this will be your best choice especially the drip irrigation which can be programmed using an application.
- Sometimes taking care of plants can be a challenge and may create a problem with remembering to give them water. The humidity indoors can fluctuate in the winter months, and this will be the best way to ensure that they have adequate amount of moisture to thrive.
- As we age it can become challenging for lifting. Adding water to a container can become heavy the automated system makes watering the plants much easier and removes any strain on the arm and back muscles.
- If you live in areas that are prone to water shortages in the summer months, it is a good way to conserve. It also helps with the reduction of your utility bills and also makes a positive contribution to the environment.
- If you prefer to become engaged into a garden project, A good way is to make your own drip-irrigation system by using recycled plastic bottles. You can purchase self-watering spikes and attach them to a water bottle. Saving the bottles from going into the garbage by repurposing them for your own personal needs.
Comparing Manual vs: Self-Watering Devices
Spending time in any space with plants are always therapeutic especially if you started the plant from seed and watched it develop. You become attach to all of them and usually you can tell a bit about the history of why you bought the plant and what drew your attention to it. You are able to observe closely the changes that may be occurring with the plant. Colours of brown or yellow is suggesting that the plant needs some nutrient. You can observe if it is being taken over by pests and immediately you are able to give it the attention it requires. There is much more attention to every detail about the plant when you are physically handling it yourself.
With self-watering device because it is automatic these details can be overlooked for a period of time. You may not notice any infestation as quickly as if you were to manually water the plant. In the long run within a few days to a week the plant may be in trouble and with pests that can also spread to other plants close by.
With both situations each has its own challenges. If you have decided to purchase a self-watering device, be aware that some attention will be needed to make sure the equipment is functioning effectively. The plants need your attention to make sure they are getting adequate moisture and there are no issues with overwatering which can happen as you become adjusted to using the equipment and trying to understand how much water flow is needed. From this learning curb, you will discover which plants do well in a self -watering set up. One thing I have learnt in gardening is to be patient and in the long run, there will be valuable lessons learnt.
Plants That Do Well in Self-Watering Garden
Not every plant is suitable to be placed in a self-watering garden. Some will thrive while others will struggle and perhaps die. Being selective is the key and a bit of research will help you to make the best choices for this type of garden. Look for plants that thrive when they are close to the water that will give you the best clue. If you are selecting a tropical plant, it is good to know the environment where they came from so, they can be easily adjusted to your surroundings. The key is to trick the plant into believing that it has not left its original home, and nothing has changed. I have made some selections that will help you to understand more about these water-based plants.
- Watercress a vegetable found thriving in a water environment. Packed with vitamins and nutrients
- Leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale
- Peppermint will do well in a most soil
- Marigold
- Pothos will thrive in water
- Spider plant
- Fern usually found in a tropical climate in a location with lots of moisture
- Strawberries
- Geraniums
- Spiderwort
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Self-Watering Tools
Realizing that not all plants are suitable to be placed in a self- watering set up is of utmost importance. By carefully selecting which plants are suitable this will give you a better idea of how to arrange your garden whether it is indoors or for your outdoor needs. Or deciding if you want to invest into any type of self-watering devices if it meets your own objectives and what you expect to accomplish.
While some devices can become expensive and may have issues being effective. A good way to save yourself some time is to do as much research as possible and sometimes reviews on products bought by customers will tell the true story. From their opinions you can extract what is needed to make a good and sound judgement.
Usually with any new product it will take some adjustment to learn how to make it function effectively. Be patient to learn the mechanics of your new product. Nothing will be proven in haste, and this is a chance to learn as much as you can. Some companies will allow a return of the product if you are not satisfied. Before purchasing the product, it is best to know the retailers return policy to avoid any unpleasantness or disappointments.
Keep in mind if your time away from home is a long extended trip, it will require a reservoir large enough to accommodate this time away from your plants to avoid total evaporation.
Choose the correct device for your plants not every device is suitable for your specific needs. Some plants are larger with bigger root system that will need a large enough spike to reach the root system of your plant otherwise you will be left with only a section of the plant being sustained.
It is possible that after periods of continuous use there can be a build up inside the tubing system which will be a problem causing algae to form. Be pro-active in checking to make sure the equipment is functioning as it should is a necessity.
Ignoring your plant for long periods and becoming totally dependent on an automated system can cause problem as you may not notice pests like spider mites taking hold of your plants. A constant check is needed to avoid these issues.
Generally, when a product is bought the manufacturers gives specific instructions to follow to keep the equipment functioning as it should. We all tend to ignore the fine print and try to comprehend it on our own. It is written as a guide to assist you in keeping you and the equipment safe and performing well. To ignore this is probably not in your best interest.
Making sure that your soil selection is one that is well-drained. Anything that is too dense will clog the system and cause issues with drainage for your equipment and for the plants to survive.
Providing proper maintenance ensures that the equipment is working correctly and that means it should be cleaned by removing any debris. Once this is completed, the removal of old soil and adding replacement are a good way to continue to keep the plants revived and refreshed. By taking these few suggestions you will ensure that your plants are given the opportunity to thrive in this habitat that you have created.
Plants are living species that will survive with the best care they are given. By looking at a plant especially the ones that are thriving is an indication that they are well taken care of. Nothing is perfect it is our obligation make the effort to preserve the species and allow them to thrive in the best environment that we can provide.