Open today 9:00 - 17:00
Open today 9:00 - 17:00
Going on holiday should be relaxing, not stressful. The last thing any gardener wants is to return home to wilted flowers, dry containers, or a jungle of weeds. With a little preparation, you can keep your garden healthy, hydrated, and looking its best while you enjoy your break.
These practical plant care tips will help protect your garden from summer heat, water loss, and neglect, whether you’re away for a weekend or a fortnight.
A thorough watering before your holiday can help plants cope better while you’re away.
Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the soil where moisture lasts longer. Pay particular attention to:
Early morning watering is best because less moisture evaporates in cooler temperatures.
Pro Tip: Mix water-retaining granules into the compost in pots and hanging baskets before your trip to help them stay moist for longer.
Mulching before a holiday can help the soil retain moisture and reduce how quickly it dries out during warm weather.
A layer of mulch helps:
You can use:
Spread a suitable layer of mulch around borders, shrubs and vegetable plants before you leave.
Bonus Tip: Avoid placing mulch directly against stems and trunks, as this can encourage rot and create favourable conditions for some pests.
Outdoor containers dry out much faster than plants growing in the ground, particularly during warm weather.
Before going on holiday:
These simple steps help protect plants from drying out and reduce stress while you’re away.
There are several simple ways to keep container plants watered while you’re away. Homemade bottle feeders and wick watering systems are inexpensive options, while purpose-made watering devices can provide a steady supply of moisture for longer trips.
A simple and affordable solution for plant care:
Water will slowly seep into the soil over several days.
Use capillary matting or absorbent fabric:
The material gradually draws moisture into the pot.
Extra Tip: Test your watering setup a few days before travelling. Check that the compost stays evenly moist without becoming waterlogged, and adjust the flow if necessary.
Houseplants can struggle in warm, bright rooms while you are away.
To slow growth and reduce water usage:
A cool bathroom or utility room often provides a more humid environment while still allowing enough natural light.
Avoid leaving plants in complete darkness for long periods, especially flowering varieties.
Before going on holiday, spend time tidying your garden.
Removing faded blooms from roses, sweet peas, petunias and geraniums encourages healthier growth and more flowers when you return.
Harvesting produce before you leave helps prevent crops from becoming overripe or damaged. Many fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, pears, peaches and some apples, will continue to ripen after picking, helping to reduce waste while keeping plants productive.
If you have a trusted neighbour nearby, ask if they would mind watering your garden while you are away. A few fresh vegetables, flowers, or home-grown treats can be a lovely way to say thank you.
It is a simple solution that can make a big difference, especially during warm weather when pots, baskets, and vegetable plants can dry out quickly.
Want even better results while going on holiday? These expert tips can help:
Automatic watering systems provide reliable watering for:
Fertilising encourages rapid growth, meaning plants may require more water while you are away.
If a heatwave is expected:
Patio slabs and decking can overheat containers quickly. Pot feet improve drainage and airflow.
Preparing your garden before going on holiday is easy with the right advice and products. From watering systems and mulch to compost and plant care essentials, our team is here to help keep your garden thriving while you are away.
Visit us in Kington today and let our friendly team help you find the best solutions for stress-free summer holiday plant care.
