Advice for Plants When You're on Holiday
- Shergill. Design.
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Planning a holiday is always exciting, but if you're a plant lover, you may find yourself worrying about how your garden and houseplants will cope while you're away. The good news is that with a little preparation, your plants can stay healthy and thriving until you return.
At Shergill Design, we understand the importance of keeping your landscape looking its best all year round. Here are our top tips to help your plants survive and flourish while you're enjoying a well-deserved break.
1. Water Thoroughly Before You Leave
Give all your plants a deep watering the day before your departure. Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the soil, making plants more resilient during periods of reduced care. For garden plants, focus on watering at the base rather than spraying foliage. This helps moisture reach the roots where it's needed most.
2. Mulch Your Garden Beds
Applying a layer of mulch around your plants can significantly reduce moisture loss from the soil. Organic mulches such as bark chips, compost, or wood chippings help keep roots cool and retain water during warm weather.
A 5–8cm layer of mulch can make a noticeable difference, particularly during summer holidays.
3. Move Potted Plants to Shadier Areas
Container plants dry out much faster than those planted in the ground. If possible, move pots to a shaded or partially shaded location before you leave.
Grouping pots together can also create a more humid microclimate, helping plants retain moisture for longer.
4. Set Up an Automatic Watering System
For longer trips, consider investing in an irrigation timer or drip watering system. These systems can provide consistent watering while you're away and are especially useful for hanging baskets, containers, and newly planted areas.
Even a simple hose timer can give you peace of mind during your holiday.
5. Ask a Friend or Neighbour for Help
If you'll be away for more than a week or two, asking a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member to check on your plants can be invaluable.
Leave clear instructions regarding watering schedules and any specific care requirements. It can also be helpful to group plants with similar watering needs together.
6. Harvest and Deadhead Before You Go
Remove any spent flowers and harvest ripe fruits or vegetables before your departure. This reduces stress on the plant and encourages healthy growth upon your return.
Deadheading flowering plants also helps conserve energy and can prolong blooming throughout the season.
7. Indoor Plant Care Tips
Houseplants often require special attention when you're away:
Water plants thoroughly before leaving.
Move them away from direct sunlight to reduce water loss.
Use self-watering pots or watering spikes if you'll be gone for an extended period.
Place humidity-loving plants together to help maintain moisture levels.
8. Avoid Fertilising Just Before Your Holiday
Fertiliser encourages new growth, which typically requires more water. Applying fertiliser immediately before leaving can increase the risk of plants becoming stressed while you're away.
It's generally best to wait until you return before feeding your plants.
Returning Home
When you get back, inspect your plants carefully. Some may need a deep watering, light pruning, or removal of any damaged leaves. Most plants are surprisingly resilient and will quickly recover with a little attention.
Need Professional Garden Care?
If you're planning a holiday and want complete peace of mind, Shergill Design can help. From landscape maintenance to irrigation solutions and seasonal garden care, our team can ensure your outdoor spaces remain healthy, vibrant, and beautiful while you're away.
Contact Shergill Design today to discuss how we can keep your garden looking its best throughout the year.
Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM
Call 707-648-7955 or email us at shergilldell@yahoo.com to schedule a consultation
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