Newspapers make an effective alternative to mulch and can help keep the extra paper waste from making its way to already crowded landfills. Crumple up old newspapers and cover the topsoil with a solid layer of material. The newspapers will absorb and retain water, helping to keep the soil moist.

Cardboard egg cartons can increase the water holding capacity of soil when added to it. Either plant seedlings in egg carton starter cups, or tear up the empty containers, mixing the pieces into the topsoil. The material will absorb and hold onto moisture, delivering it to the roots as needed.

Poke holes in the bottom and sides of a plastic water or soda bottle using a nail or thick sewing needle. Bury the bottle in a hole slightly larger than the container, next to the plant you want to water. Make sure the neck of the bottle is above the ground and fill in the soil back around the container. Remove the lid and fill with water, capping tightly to keep soil and debris out.

If you’re going to be gone a couple of days and want to keep potted plants watered, then make a quick self-watering system using cotton fabric and a vessel to hold water. Braid three strips of cotton fabric together, placing one end in a vessel of water and the other end in the pot. The water will wick through the cotton to the soil.