Before you take off on your next trip, save the price of a house sitter and get some Smart Planters with built-in computers. Fill the reservoir and it will check the soil every half hour with a moisture probe and store the information in its memory. It will then water it when the need arises. The device holds a 10-inch pot and needs 3 D batteries (not included.) You can use the Smart Planter indoors or out, with free-standing or hanging plants, and there is a guarantee not to overwater. The SP has a MSRP of $49.95.