Watering greenhouse plants - Summer hols

[toffeeman]

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

[sandersj89]

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

[Ian F]

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?

[toffeeman]

Very much appreciate the links/advice.

[toffeeman]

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

[Tigger]

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.

[oldherbaceous]

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.

[toffeeman]

Thanks for all advice