Not every balcony has its own electricity or even water connection, which would ensure that the balcony plants are supplied during the holiday season. In any case, it is better to let such a system run without electricity and an unattended external water supply - the risk of problems such as serious water damage is too great. Fortunately, there are tried and tested systems that do not require any electricity or external water supply.
How can you water plants without electricity or a water connection?
To enable irrigation without electricity or water connection, irrigation cones or balls, elevated tanks or solar-powered irrigation systems can be used. Another simple method is to use a PET bottle filled with water and inserted upside down into the substrate.
Watering cones or balls
So-called irrigation cones or balls, which are made of glass, clay or plastic, are filled with water and then simply inserted into the substrate, work according to a very simple principle. They gradually release the water into the substrate, ensuring continuous moisture. However, they need to be refilled regularly and are therefore only suitable for a few days' absence, but not for a longer vacation.
High tank
A so-called high tank is significantly more productive. This is a larger water container that is placed at a higher level than the planters and is connected to them via thin hoses. The only thing that works here is gravity, which gradually pushes the higher water down and into the planters. You can buy the components for such a system ready-made, but you can also put them together yourself.
Solar systems
Where pumps and timers do not work due to a lack of electricity, irrigation systems powered by solar power can provide a solution. However, their reliability depends largely on solar radiation: If the sun does not shine or does not shine brightly enough, the stored electricity is not sufficient for irrigation.
Tip
You can install a very simple method of irrigation using a simple PET bottle: simply fill it with water and insert it upside down into the substrate.
