Message for Rusty re watering plants - like figs -

You mentioned about not being able to go away because of having to water
stuff. In the summer, I bought a watering system made by Gardena on a
special offer in our garden centre. About £50. Possibly one of my daft
ideas. I haven't used it yet but intend to set it up in the spring. (A
friend offered to stay at our house whilst we were on hols, which was
much more satisfactory). Anyway, if it works, a similar one might solve
your problem. It attaches to the outside tap and runs off an ordinary 9v
battery (the oblong ones). Narrow plastic pipes are joined together and
extentions from them are stuck in the pots or places which need
watering. There is some sort of sensor, which opens the valve to let
the water out of the tap when the plants need watering. It is possible
to expand the system into a huge watering system, which is beyond my
needs but may be useful for you.

I hate going away just as everything needs lots of watering but with our
youngest still at school, going in term-time is not an option. I shall
let you know whether or not it works after I have set it up.
--
June Hughes