Packing your bags, closing the door and heading off on holiday always feels good. But if you have plants at home, on the balcony or in the garden, one concern often remains: how can you keep them watered while you are away for several days or even weeks?
Asking a relative or neighbour to help may be an option. However, this is not always possible, and every plant has different needs. Self Watering System solutions, or SWS, help simplify this routine by creating a water reserve that is made available to the plant more gradually.
This helps reduce watering frequency and better prepare your plants for the periods when you are away from home.
How does a self-watering system work?
Self-watering systems store water inside the pot or in a dedicated reservoir. Depending on the solution, water is gradually released around the root area, helping to meet the plant’s moisture needs.
As well as making plant care more practical, these solutions help prevent two common problems before a holiday: overwatering in an attempt to compensate for your absence, or allowing the potting mix to dry out too quickly.
Watering autonomy will never be the same for every plant. It depends on the species, pot size, amount of potting mix, temperature, sun exposure and reservoir capacity. That is why the right choice should always begin with the plant’s needs and the space where it is placed.
Pots with an integrated self-watering system
For those looking for a complete solution, there are pots and plant boxes with an integrated Self Watering System, combining functionality with decoration.
The San Remo and Siena ranges offer contemporary options for indoor spaces in a variety of sizes. For larger plants or decorative schemes that call for more height, the tall Santorini and Pisa pots are available in SWS versions with an insert included, making them easier to handle.
The Rimini plant box was specially designed for indoor spaces. It includes a self-watering system, water reserve, insert and drainage blocker, helping to make everyday plant care simpler and particularly useful before a period away from home.
A solution for balconies and outdoor spaces
On balconies, plants can lose water more quickly due to sun and wind. Preparing their watering system before travelling is therefore especially important.
The Venezia L Plant Box Self Watering System is available in different sizes and includes a water reserve, drainage blocker and stabilising piece. A balcony kit version is also available, allowing the solution to be integrated into an outdoor space in a practical and visually balanced way.
Before leaving, always check that the plant box is installed correctly and that the reservoir is full. During periods of intense heat, it may still be advisable to ask someone to check the plants while you are away.
Hydrum: add self-watering to the pots you already have
Replacing your existing pots is not always necessary. Hydrum SWS is an accessory that can be adapted to round or square pots from 28 cm and to plant boxes from 50 cm.
The system includes a water-level indicator and directs irrigation towards the root area. This makes it easier to monitor the available water reserve and reduce the need for frequent watering.
It is a particularly versatile option for adding self-watering functionality to different pot styles, both indoors and outdoors.
Aquaterra: up to 30 days of irrigation
For longer periods away, Aquaterra offers a self-watering solution made from terracotta.
The system is placed in the soil next to the plant and filled with water. Thanks to the natural porosity of terracotta, water is gradually released near the roots. The top saucer also helps reduce evaporation.
1 litre: up to 10 days of irrigation;
5 litres: up to 30 days of irrigation.
The actual duration may vary depending on environmental conditions and the needs of each plant, but the larger-capacity model can be particularly useful for anyone planning to be away for several weeks.
Checklist before going on holiday
Even with a self-watering system, it is worth preparing your plants a few days in advance.
1. Test the system beforehand.
Monitor how long the water reserve takes to decrease over several days. This will help you understand the plant’s actual water consumption.
2. Fill the reservoir just before you leave.
Also check the water-level indicator, inserts and drainage blockers used with each product.
3. Avoid sudden changes in location.
A plant that is used to plenty of light should not suddenly be moved into a dark space. When necessary, simply reduce its exposure to the strongest sunlight.
4. Group plants with similar needs.
This makes preparation easier and simplifies any check carried out by someone else.
5. Pay extra attention to more sensitive plants.
Young plants, very small pots or plants exposed to high temperatures may require additional care.
More time to relax, less worry about watering
Holidays should be a time to switch off. With the right preparation and a self-watering solution suited to each plant, you can reduce maintenance concerns and create a more practical watering routine, even after you return.
From pots and plant boxes with integrated systems to Hydrum and terracotta Aquaterra, Artevasi irrigation solutions combine functionality and design to help Nature continue to grow, even while you are away.
Explore the Self Watering System solutions and discover the most suitable option for your plants and your space.
