so the easiest way I can think of would be for you to build some sort of shelter for them. I know in the uk you can buy a grow tent that you would grow tomatoes in. get yourself a tray that fits the bottom so that or on top of gravel, something that's going to be a layer between a humid floor and your pots, this way your plants can still be outdoors and you stay in your wife's good books. The only thing with an outdoor grow tent may be that the heat in the tent may make it humid, if you can try and get one with an open bottom so that the humidity can escape. but trying to keep a good barrier around the edge of the outside so you don't let moisture in. hope that helps and good luck.