As summer is approaching, it’s time to take a break and go on vacation. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or enjoying a week's trip, it’s essential to keep your plants hydrated while you’re away.
To promote plant growth and avoid wilting leaves, the comprehensive guide will walk you through the best automatic plant watering systems for both potted plants and hydroponic plants. By the end of the post, we’ll also demonstrate how to DIY a watering solution. All these tools and techniques can ensure your plants receive the right amount of water while you’re away.
Table of Contents
How Many Times a Week to Water During Summer?
During the summer days, indoor plants need more frequent watering due to higher temperatures and increased evaporation rates. To keep vibrant plant growth in summer, you should figure out the appropriate watering frequency for each type of indoor plant.
- Succulents and Cacti: Every 2-4 weeks. Indoor succulent plants store water in their leaves and stems, so they require less frequent watering.
- Tropical Plants (e.g., Ferns, Peace Lilies): Every 1-2 weeks. These plants thrive in moist environments and need more frequent watering.
- Herbs: Every 1-2 weeks. Herbs like basil and mint need consistent moisture to grow well.
- Flowering Plants: Every 1-2 weeks. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
How to Measure Saturated Water Content?
Proper watering is crucial for the health and plant growth. Before watering your plants via the self-watering system, you should also learn when you need to water your plants. One effective way to determine the optimal watering schedule is by measuring the Saturated Water Content (SWC) of the soil. The Spider Farmer 3-in-1 Soil Sensor can easily and accurately do this.
How to Measure Saturated Water Content?
The Spider Farmer 3-in-1 Soil Sensor is a versatile and reliable tool designed to help gardeners and farmers monitor key soil parameters, including soil moisture (vwc), temperature, and electrical conductivity (EC), providing essential data for plant growth. It helps determine watering schedules, ensures healthy root development, and prevents over-fertilization. By measuring the Saturated Water Content, you can gain valuable insights into the soil's water-holding capacity and ensure that your plants receive the right amount of water at the right time.
Here is how to use the Spider Farmer 3-in-1 Soil Sensor to measure Saturated Water Content.
|
Condition or Action |
What to Do / Why It Matters |
Example (Saturation = 40%) |
|---|---|---|
|
Saturation Level |
To measure saturated water content, thoroughly irrigate the substrate using the same nutrient solution used in actual cultivation until water begins to drain from the bottom. Wait 5–30 minutes until drainage stops, then record the moisture reading as the saturated water content. Since different substrate types or batches can vary, direct measurement is required—do not rely on reference values. If the nutrient solution is changed, a new measurement is necessary. Even without changing the solution, root growth can affect readings, so it's recommended to recalibrate at each growth stage. |
40% |
|
When to Stop Watering |
Watering can be stopped when soil moisture reaches 85%–95% of the saturation level. This allows enough air space in the root zone for healthy plant growth. |
40% × 95% = 38% |
|
When to Start Watering |
When soil moisture drops to 60%–80% of the saturation level, it’s a good time to resume watering. Use the higher end for water-loving crops (e.g. strawberries), and the lower end for drought-tolerant crops (e.g. tomatoes). |
40% × 60% = 24% |
|
Watering Strategy |
Use frequent, low-volume watering to reduce runoff and account for the delayed absorption in the growing medium. |
/ |
|
Emergency Moisture Level |
Irrigation should start immediately if substrate moisture approaches the wilting point (typically 30%–50% of saturation) outside scheduled watering periods. |
40% × 30% = 12% |
You can use this 3-in-1 Soil Sensor to test the saturated water content before watering your plants. Soon, we'll integrate this parameter into the GGS Smart Controller so that you can monitor the real-time SWC in the app and adjust the amount of watering accordingly.
How to Water Plants While Away?
It sounds like a challenge to water plants while away. Nevertheless, with the right techniques, your plants will stay healthy and hydrated.
Based on the different precision of watering requirements and the growth stages of plants, you can select the product that best suits your needs. Here, you can choose the right plant watering systems according to your needs.
- Auto Drip Irrigation Systems: These systems use a network of tubes and emitters to deliver water directly to the roots of your plants. They can be controlled with a timer to ensure your plants receive the right amount of water at the right time.
Spider Farmer Drip Irrigation System for Plants with Water Pump, 8 Drip Emitters, and GGS AC10 Power Strip Kit for Smart Watering Control
- Smart Control & Automation:
The GGS AC10 Power Strip has 10 independent outlets, each of which can be set with its own schedule and mode (such as temperature, humidity, and CO2 modes). By connecting the 25W water pump to the GGS AC10, you can automatically control the pump’s on/off cycle based on your set schedule, improving watering efficiency and preventing waste. The schedule includes two modes: Time Period Mode and Time Cycle Mode. Additionally, the GGS AC10 comes with a 3-in-1 soil sensor that monitors soil moisture, temperature, and EC (Electrical Conductivity), displaying this data on the app for real-time insights into your soil conditions. You can also connect fans, lights, humidifiers, and other devices to the GGS AC10 to fully manage your growing environment. -
25W Smart Water Pump:
The 25W water pump offers a maximum flow rate of 12L/min and includes a low water level sensor that automatically stops the pump when the water level is low, ensuring efficient water use and preventing waste. -
13-Gallon Large Capacity Water Tank:
The 13-gallon water tank reduces the need for frequent refills. The tank is made from temperature- and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring long-lasting and reliable water storage. -
8-Outlet Drip Emitter:
The system comes with 8 adjustable drip emitters with a spray range of 0-360°. You can choose to use as many or as few emitters as needed, and precisely control the water flow to meet the needs of different plants. -
Water-Saving & Efficient Irrigation:
The automatic drip irrigation system delivers water directly to the plant roots, reducing water waste and evaporation. The system precisely controls water flow, promoting healthy plant growth, improving yields, and conserving water.
Spider Farmer Drip Irrigation System for Plants with Water Pump, 8 Drip Emitters, and GGS AC5 Power Strip Kit for Smart Watering Control
- Self-Watering Systems: These spikes release water slowly and steadily. Simply insert a wine bottle filled with water into the spike, and it will water your plants over time. This method is great for potted plants and can last up to 10 days.
Spider Farmer 4-Pack Gravity-Fed Silent Self-Watering System Kits for Indoor Grow Tents & Greenhouses
- 𝐇𝐀𝐒𝐒𝐋𝐄-𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐎 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐘𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐌: Spider Farmer self-watering system uses gravity to automatically feed water from a generous 13-gallon reservoir directly to each pot base, ensures your plants stay perfectly hydrated—no electricity needed, no daily checks required. Say goodbye to manual watering with this system that keeps your plants hydrated effortlessly
- 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐋: Using wick lines, plants absorb only the water they need, ensuring a balanced watering system that prevents over or under-watering. This self-watering system is designed to keep your plants healthy with the ideal moisture levels
- 𝐋𝐎𝐍𝐆-𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐘: Fill the 13-gallon reservoir once, and enjoy up to 2 weeks of automatic watering! This 4-pack self-watering system will keep your plants happy and lush, even when you’re on vacation
- 𝐀𝐃𝐉𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐖𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒: Designed to fit your growing needs, each fabric pot base features three sets of wick positions to fit different pot sizes. You can seamlessly switch between 1-2, 3, and 5-7 gallon grow bags, providing a versatile self-watering pot base for various plant needs and pot sizes
- 𝐀𝐋𝐋-𝐈𝐍-𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐋𝐅-𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐊𝐈𝐓: Get everything you need in one powerful package: four self-watering bases, a 13-gallon water reservoir, five 5-gallon grow bags, wick lines, shut-off value box and water tubes. Just set it up and watch your plants thrive!
- 𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐋 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝟒𝐱𝟒 & 𝟓𝐱𝟓𝐅𝐓 𝐆𝐑𝐎𝐖 𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒: Each base features a 15.6-inch diameter, perfectly designed to fit 4x4 and 5x5ft grow tents. The Spider Farmer 4-Pot Self-Watering System ensures efficient hydration for your plants, reducing manual watering and optimizing growth. Grow smarter, not harder!
- Can support 4L of water per plant per week.
- Keeps 4 plants watered for 3 weeks
- Silent hydration for your indoor garden — keeps your plants nourished without disturbing your peace.
- Tips:
-
- For best results, lay the Self-Watering Fabric Pot Base, Shut-off Valve Box, and tubes flat on the ground, and always keep the folding bucket filled with water
- It is recommended to clean the basin every two weeks to prevent root clogging
- Recommended tent sizes: 120cm x 120cm/ 150cm x 150cm Grow Tent
- Self-watering pots work best once the roots are well-developed. Seedlings have shallow roots that may not reach the moist soil, so it's best to wait until they grow longer and stronger.
- DIY Self-Watering System:Customize your watering needs by adjusting the number of wicks—more wicks, more water. Simple and flexible for every plant.
- Package contents: 4x Self-watering Fabric Pot Base 1x 50L Folding Bucket 5 X 5 Gallon Grow Bag 1 X Silicone Tube (4M) 1X Shut-Off Valve Box 1X User Manual (Check More)
Spider Farmer® 5-in-1 pH Hydroponic Meter Kit
Designed for hydroponics and plant growth, it accurately measures pH, EC, TDS, temperature, and salinity to ensure optimal nutrient uptake.
- 5 in 1 Accurate Measurements
Designed for hydroponics, it accurately measures pH, EC, TDS, temperature, and salinity to ensure optimal nutrient uptake.
- High-Sensitivity Sensor
With a high-sensitivity electrode sensor, it provides stable readings with ±0.05 pH accuracy, preventing nutrient issues and fertilizer waste.
- TDS & pH on one screen
TDS & pH on one screen—clear at a glance for faster, more precise nutrient management.
- Waterproof & Dustproof Design
Specially sealed for water, dust, and moisture resistance, ensuring reliable performance in hydroponics.
- Long-lasting Battery
Built-in 600mAh lithium battery supports 300 cycles, with up to 6 months standby on one charge.
Package Includes:
- 5-in-1 Hydroponic Tester x 1
- Type-C Cable (60cm) x 1
- 4.00 Calibration Powder x 1
- 6.86 Calibration Powder x 1
- 9.18 Calibration Powder x 1
- User Manual x 1 → Click here to view the online manual
- DWC Hydroponic Growing System: Plant roots are suspended directly in a nutrient-rich, oxygenated solution, ensuring a constant supply of water and nutrients. In this way, you can leave your plants for a vacation, as the roots have continuous access to the solution, maintaining optimal hydration levels.
Spider Farmer DWC Hydroponic Growing System with Top Drip Kit, 7-Gallon Deep Water Culture, 2-Bucket Setup, and GGS AC10 Power Strip Kit for Smart Watering Control
Spider Farmer DWC Hydroponic Growing System with Top Drip Kit, 7-Gallon Deep Water Culture, 4-Bucket Setup, and GGS AC10 Power Strip Kit for Smart Watering Control
GGS AC10 Power Strip with Automatic Operation: The GGS AC10 Power Strip features 10 independent outlets, each of which can be set with its own schedule and mode (e.g., temperature, humidity, and CO2 modes). This means users can precisely control the operation times and modes of every device plugged into it (such as the air pump in the DWC system), ensuring that the system runs efficiently under optimal conditions for plant growth and health. What's even more important, the GGS AC10 is connected to a temperature and humidity light sensor, allowing you to plug in devices such as humidifiers, dehumidifiers, lights, clip fans, and inline fans. These devices will work together based on a unified temperature and humidity target, ensuring that the environmental conditions are always ideal for plant growth.
New Triangle Cover Design: The innovative triangle cover design allows for easy access to add water and measure liquid parameters, improving overall ease of use. With a 7-gallon capacity, it's made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant PP (polypropylene) material that is lightweight and durable.
Top Irrigation System: Equipped with an adjustable top drip irrigation ring, this system lets you finely adjust the irrigation speed. The 6-inch net cup is made from high-strength PP material, making it incredibly tough and able to provide strong support for healthy, lush plants.
Powerful Air Pump: Able to output powerful air; 15W; maximum airflow: 28 L/min (adjustable). Used with air stone can effectively provide sufficient oxygen to plant roots, helping plant roots thrive and grow healthily
The AC10 Power Strip kits include: 1 x GGS AC10 Power Strip 1 x GGS Temperature, humidity, and light sensor 1 x 3-in-1 soil sensor 1 x GGS Light adapter (for connecting the lights to the GGS System) 4 x 2.5m RJ12 cables (for connecting devices) 2 x 0.25m RJ12 cables 1 x GGS Pro Adapter (for expanding device connections) 6 x hook and loop straps (for organizing cables)
DWC Hydroponic System Kit Includes: 4pcs 7-gallon DWC Buckets, 4pcs triangular cover, 4pcs net cup, air pump, 4pcs air stone, 12M 4/6mm black tubing, dry clay pebbles, 4pcs water level tube, 4pcs drip irrigation ring, user manual, and other accessories
Spider Farmer DWC Hydroponic Growing System with Top Drip Kit, 7-Gallon Deep Water Culture, 4-Bucket Setup, and GGS AC5 Power Strip Kit for Smart Watering Control
GGS AC5 Power Strip with Automatic Operation: The GGS AC5 Power Strip features 5 independent outlets, each of which can be set with its own schedule and mode (e.g., temperature, humidity, and CO2 modes). This means users can precisely control the operation times and modes of every device plugged into it (such as the air pump in the DWC system), ensuring that the system runs efficiently under optimal conditions for plant growth and health. What’s even more important, the GGS AC5 is connected to a temperature and humidity light sensor, allowing you to plug in devices such as humidifiers, dehumidifiers, lights, clip fans, and inline fans. These devices will work together based on a unified temperature and humidity target, ensuring that the environmental conditions are always ideal for plant growth.
New Triangle Cover Design: The innovative triangle cover design allows for easy access to add water and measure liquid parameters, improving overall ease of use. With a 7-gallon capacity, it’s made from high-quality, corrosion-resistant PP (polypropylene) material that is lightweight and durable.
Top Irrigation System: Equipped with an adjustable top drip irrigation ring, this system lets you finely adjust the irrigation speed. The 6-inch net cup is made from high-strength PP material, making it incredibly tough and able to provide strong support for healthy, lush plants.
Powerful Air Pump: Able to output powerful air; 15W; maximum airflow: 28 L/min (adjustable). Used with air stone can effectively provide sufficient oxygen to plant roots, helping plant roots thrive and grow healthily
The AC5 Power Strip kits includes: 1 x GGS AC5 Power Strip 1 x GGS Temperature, humidity, and light sensor 1 x 3-in-1 soil sensor 1 x GGS Light adapter (for connecting the lights to the GGS System) 4 x 2.5m RJ12 cables (for connecting devices) 2 x 0.25m RJ12 cables 1 x GGS Pro Adapter (for expanding device connections) 6 x hook and loop straps (for organizing cables)
DWC Hydroponic System Kit Includes: 4pcs 7-gallon DWC Buckets, 4pcs triangular cover, 4pcs net cup, air pump, 4pcs air stone, 12M 4/6mm black tubing, dry clay pebbles, 4pcs water level tube, 4pcs drip irrigation ring, user manual and other accessories
The Best Watering System for Potted Plants in Spring & Summer
Compared to hydroponic plants, it can be difficult for potted plants to survive in hot summer days. In this case, you should consider investing in a watering system for your potted plants. The best watering system for potted plants in spring and summer is the Spider Farmer Auto Drip Irrigation system. It’s easy to set it up. Just add water to the bucket and set the timer. Then you can get started!
The Best Watering System for Potted Plants in Spring & Summer
Why Drip Irrigation Systems Matter?
- The water evaporates quickly when the temperature increases in spring and summer.
- Soil-grown plants require significant amounts of water and need frequent watering to thrive.
- Drip Irrigation Systems deliver water directly to the plant roots at a slow, steady pace, conserving water, enhancing watering efficiency, and saving time for gardeners and farmers.
Product Highlights – Spider Farmer Drip Irrigation System
- Equipped with a built-in water pump, you don’t need to connect a faucet.
- With 8 adjustable drippers, this system can water multiple plants simultaneously.
- The GGS Smart Controller allows you to remotely control the specific time of watering on your phone. Through the time perios mode of GGS, you can also set which days to water automatically. You can set the start time, the duration of watering, the duration of stopping, and the number of cycles.
- Whether you’re cultivating plants on your balcony, in pots, or other indoor places, the Spider Farmer Drip Irrigation System can meet your needs.
Ideal Use Cases & Plant Types
It’s suitable for soil cultivation, balcony gardening, and small-scale home growers.
How to DIY the Watering Solution?
After investing in the Drip Irrigation System, you should prepare for the watering solution. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your plant growth with the homemade watering solution.
In this part, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your watering system using everyday items. Whether you're a busy gardener or planning a vacation, these DIY solutions ensure your plants stay healthy and thrive.
Key Components
DIY Watering Solution
- Water Source: The Reverse Osmosis (RO) water ensures that your nutrient solution is free from unwanted minerals and contaminants. If the RO water is not available, you can use distilled water as an alternative.
- Nutrients: Choose a high-quality, water-soluble fertilizer that provides all essential nutrients (N-P-K and micronutrients). Besides, adds magnesium and sulfur, which are beneficial for plant growth. Moreover, you can use Sodium Benzoate as a preservative to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- pH Adjusters: Ensure your nutrient solution is at the optimal pH level (usually between 5.5 and 6.5) for your plants.
Steps to Prepare the Watering Solution:
1. Calculate Water Requirements
- Determine the total water requirement for your plants based on their needs and the area to be irrigated.
- Then use the formula to calculate the supply of water:
Run Time (minutes) = (Plant Water Requirement in gallons) / (Emitter Flow Rate in GPH) * 60
2. Mix the Nutrient Solution
- Start with a clean container and add RO or distilled water.
- Add the water-soluble fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Mix in Epsom salts at a rate of about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water.
- Add a small amount of sodium benzoate (if needed) to prevent microbial growth.
- Adjust the pH of the solution using pH up/down solutions until it reaches the optimal range.
3. Set Up the Auto Drip Irrigation System
- Connect your drip irrigation system to the water source.
- Install emitters and tubing according to your garden layout.
- Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.
4. Test and Adjust
- Run the system and check for leaks or clogs.
- Monitor the plants for signs of over/under watering and adjust the flow rates or watering schedule as needed.
Conclusion
It’s important to keep plants watered while on vacation, especially in such hot days. If you’re planting potted plants, you can use an Auto Drip Irrigation system or a self-watering system. Which equipment to choose from depends on the amount of water your plants require. On the other hand, if you’re growing plants hydroponically, you can give Hydroponic Growing System a try.
To make best use of these self-watering systems, you can also follow the instructions to DIY a watering solution. With proper planning and the right tools, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about the well-being of your beloved indoor plants.
