As summer holidays begin, many gardeners worry about keeping their plants watered while away. One gardener has shared a simple and cheap method using an old compost bag.
How the compost bag hack works
Gardener and best-selling author Simon Akeroyd demonstrated the technique on social media. He fills a used compost bag about a quarter full with water, ties it shut with string, and punctures a small hole at the bottom. The bag slowly drips water into the planter, keeping the soil moist for up to several weeks.
"Professional gardeners use bags that slowly drip water to keep their plants alive in dry weather," he explained. "We can do something similar by repurposing a compost bag."
Step-by-step guide
First, ensure the bag is in good condition. Fill it with water – not all the way, about a quarter full. Tie the bag shut with string to prevent spills. Using a sharp object, carefully puncture a small hole at the bottom. If the bag is already leaking, skip this step.
Move the plant containers into the shade if possible, though the hack still works in sun. Place the bag inside each container. For multiple planters, repeat the process for each one.
"When you return, the compost in your pot will be perfectly moist," Simon said. "Enjoy your holiday!"
