Since our community growing project has been going, I’ve got to know so many more of my neighbours, and I feel even more rooted in our neighbourhood now. We’ve just been to Mull for Easter, (blog to follow shortly) and I borrowed this great idea for keeping my plants well- watered from neighbour Nicolette, while lovely Lindsay next door took great care of my delicate seedlings and other waifs and strays.(Huge thanks Lindsay). Despite the extreme temperatures this weekend, I came home to find happy, healthy plants. Easy to fold up and store away when not in use, the paddling pool watering system is an idea I will be using again and again. Thanks Nicolette.
Out of my shed 
You’ve reminded my to get my pool back out. A useful device not only to keep your plants watered when you are away on holiday, but for respite care – plonking them in the pool for a good soak overnight, for instance, when the weather is very hot is quicker and a more effective pick-me-up than watering them in the morning.
You can take the virtuous circle even further – decant the water from your bath (in a bucket say) into the paddling pool rather than filling it from the mains.
I also had lovely neighbours from my flats watering the veg patch while I was away, but the plants on my balcony are always a cause for concern when I go away – especially in hot weather. This year I’ve got more growing as I’ve finally managed to net off the space against pigeons so I love the idea of your paddling pool watering system. How does it work? (or am I being thick.) I’m guessing that you water the plants well then leave a puddle of water in the pool just before going away – correct? Please enlighten me!
You have so many great garden tips. I noticed that you have messages waiting in Your Plot at Blotanical, which is where I found the link to your blog. I hope you have time to take advantage of what Blotanical offers.
That is brilliant. If only I had thought of this over easter!
Thanks Jono. Love your enthusiasm. Caro, just soaked the plants, then left them sitting in an inch or two of water. Nobody drowned, everything survived! Naomi
It was a pleasure to look after them and I have to say, when I saw the paddling pool I thought it was a genius idea.