It is possible to create your own automatic plant watering system with just a few household items. While these are less flexible than commercial solutions they can work as an effective stop gap.
1. Wash out an empty 2-litre bottle. If you use soap, be certain to wash till the water is clear. While any plastic bottle will work, I find the standard soda bottle works best. I prefer to use green bottles, as they blend in better in a garden setting.
2. Hold the sharp end of a needle over a flame using a pair of pliers. I utilize a candle as this leaves my hands free.
3. Once the needle has been heated, push it through the center of the cap – this will be where the water drips out when in use. Then reheat the needle over the candle and push it through the center of the base of the bottle to allow the flow of air to equalise as water drips out.
4. All that remains is to fill the bottle with water and place it, cap-side down roughly an inch into the dirt near the plant. The water will drip out gradually over a few days.
This will keep your plants fed and healthy for a few days but other, more robust solutions are available from our friends at Garden Bargains.