Kitchen Garden Forum

In Surrey (Sutton & East Surrey Water Co) we have a drought order. We are off on our hols for 2 weeks from the end of July and this year I really don't want everything to be dead when I get home. I have loads of stuff in the greenhouse but unfortunately my neighbours are away for the same period. Can any body suggest an effective watering system not using the mains

You can get water butt irrigation kits like these:


http://www.gardensystems.co.uk/products ... utt%20Pipe

http://www.twowests.co.uk/TwoWestsSite/product/WBDK.htm

I am going to try one this year so cant vouch for it just yet.

I also use capillary matting and water reservoir for some of the stuff in the greenhouse and that has been working very well for a couple of months now. Not had to water the plants by hand on it since the day I set it up.

HTH

Jerry

I stood my tomato plants in deepish trays, and filled the trays up with water. The plants survived a week, not sure if they would have gone two.

could you move anything outside and let nature water it?

Very much appreciate the links/advice.

Have thought about getting a large polythene sheet, lining the floor of the green house and turning the edges up 5-6". Then thought about leaving 2-3" of water. (The floor of the green house is solid - plants, tomatoes, peppers, chillies are in pots). Think its likely they would be slightly over watered. Would appreciate any comments

I know this is a bit obvious, but isn't there anyone you know who would water for you in exchange for cash or produce? Or as a barter for a favour done in return? Is there a school nearby who would do it as part of their citizenship curriculum?

We live in a hamlet, so have only a handful of neighbours, but a nearby farmer's son will do pretty much any chore for payment and it means someone's around the place at odd times. We also have a friend who lives in an urban area and he'll visit for us when we're away just for a change of scenery and a chance to hear some birds singing.

Tigger that brought the old memories flooding back when you said about the farmers son doing chores.
That sounded just like me when i was a young lad, i used to do all sorts of jobs for people, but i wasn't a farmers son.
Actually i still do lots of favors for people, i wonder if they really do appreciate it.
I think the trouble would be finding a youngster that has an interest in gardening, there are youngsters about but there a bit thin on the ground.

Kind regards Old Herbaceous.

Teres no fool like an old fool.

Thanks for all advice