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Whether you make the most of late summer flowers or let your houseplants soak up the sun outdoors, chances are your greenery is looking resplendent.
What if you're escaping to your happy place in the sun?
As Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres, points out: “Summer holidays bring with them visions of relaxation and adventure, but for devoted plant parents, the worry of leaving their beloved plants behind can be overshadowed.”
“However, with a little preparation, your indoor and outdoor potted plants can thrive while you enjoy the sunshine during your getaway.”
To ensure your container garden and houseplants keep thriving while you're away, here's your complete guide to giving those green fingers a helping hand…
Indoor plants
Make sure your houseplants thrive during your vacation with a little pre-departure planning…
“Watering is essential, so we recommend automatic irrigation systems for greater convenience, or hiring a trusted friend or neighbor to water your plants once a week,” advises Palphramand.
“Light and humidity are also crucial to plant health while you’re away. Move your plants into indirect sunlight to avoid burning delicate leaves.”
“To create a humid microclimate, group plants together,” says Palphramand. “You can also place a tray filled with rocks and water near them to increase humidity levels.”
Before you leave, she recommends adjusting your feeding schedule to avoid overfeeding while you’re away. “Consider using slow-release fertilizers for a gradual delivery of nutrients.
“Inspect your plants thoroughly for signs of pests or disease before leaving home and treat any problems quickly to prevent them from spreading while you are away.”
When you return from vacation, give your plants a little extra care, Palphramand says. “Remove dead leaves, prune overgrown branches, and check for signs of stress or damage.”
Outdoor plants
Pre-vacation self-care…
Before you pack your bags, take some time to make sure your potted plants are in tip-top shape, Palphramand says. “A healthy plant is better able to withstand the stress of your absence.”
Feed: Give your plants one last meal with a potash-rich fertilizer, says Palphramand. “Potash promotes flower and fruit development, ensuring your plants continue to produce vibrant flowers or delicious food while you’re away.”
Decapitated: “Remove spent flowers and wilted leaves before you go on vacation. Not only does this improve the overall appearance of your plants, it also encourages them to put their energy into new growth rather than maintaining old blooms.”
Pruning upon your return: Resist the temptation to over-prune before your trip, warns Palphramand. “Pruning can stress plants, making them more susceptible to dehydration while you’re away; save major pruning tasks for when you return.”
Managing while you're away…
Shade: Palphramand recommends anticipating heat waves and moving hanging baskets, window boxes and containers to a protected area with indirect sunlight. “This will help prevent them from drying out too quickly.”
Group together: “Group your potted plants together to create a microclimate, where plants benefit from each other’s humidity and provide shade for each other.”
Placement: While seeking shade, she recommends avoiding placing containers directly against walls, fences or under trees. “These locations could block rain, which is essential for health.”
Irrigation: “Water is the lifeblood of your plants, and potted plants will require more watering compared to plants in the ground,” Palphramand notes.
“The day before you leave, water the plants well. Water generously until water runs out of the drainage holes.
“This creates a deep reservoir of moisture that your plants can tap into while you're away. Fill your water barrel before you leave
“This provides a natural source of water for your plants, especially if a lucky rain falls while you’re away.”
Self-watering planters: Consider investing in self-watering pots, Palphramand recommends.
“These containers feature built-in reservoirs that automatically supply water to the plant roots as needed.
“They offer tranquility and are perfect for extended getaways.”
Mulch: “Apply a layer of mulch (tree bark, gravel or slate) around the base of your potted plants.
“Mulch acts like a mini blanket, helping to retain moisture in the soil and reduce evaporation; this can significantly extend the time between watering sessions while you’re away.”
Delegate plant care: If you are planning a longer vacation, she recommends asking a trusted family member, friend or neighbor for help.
“Ask them to check their plants every few days, especially when it’s hot, and water them promptly if necessary.”
Group thirsty plants together: “If you have plants with similar water needs, group them together,” she continues. “This makes it easier to water them efficiently and ensures that plants with higher water needs benefit from the increased humidity created by their neighbors.”
Check the weather before you go: Keep an eye on the weather forecast for your area. “If heavy rain is forecast, consider moving your plants to a sheltered location to prevent flooding.”
With a little pre-planning and strategic care, you can come home to a thriving haven of greenery, ready to welcome you back after your adventures, Palphramand says.
“So pack your bags, relax and enjoy your well-deserved vacation – your plants will be waiting for you happy and healthy!”
