Vacations and Watering California Natives Still In Pots

[Anonymous]

Hello All,

I've got a bit of a problem; last Saturday I bought 1 1/2 dozen California native plants at the Balboa Park Sale.

I now have a family emergency in the mid-west andhave no one to water my plants while I'm gone. I'llbe away for 2 weeks.

The thought came to me to place all the plants within watering distance of my avocado trees,which are on automatic timers; 5 times a week for1 hour, but I can change that if I need to.

Will this type of watering kill my new plants? AmI going to return to 18 dead pots? I hesitate tolist them all here!

I've got until 6 P.M. tomorrow to do somethingelse, should you, my friends, say so. Then I must leavefor the airport.

All suggestions will be accepted most gratefully!



I live in Valley Center.

Many thanks for taking the time to respond!

Alain</p>

[Anonymous]

Alain,Place those with the greatest tolerance of water hopefully you have some inking as to which ones those might be, closest to the sprinklers and those that demand less water just a bit out of the direct flood zone.Chances are they will be fine for two weeks. The light potting soil they are in will allow for drainage and I would be suprised if any are in bad shape upon your return. More water: plants from riparian habitats and even oak understory material columbine, ferns, etc. Moderate water: coastal sage scrub plants sages etc. likes it dry: Chaparral plants such as manzanitas, fremontias, etc.Best of luck and if you have any questions regarding planting, etc-just post another article.Dan</p>