How to care for plants and veg during your holiday

Indoor houseplants

So, you've sorted out the holiday to-do list and are now looking at your plants. How will they cope without you for the next two weeks, and what is going to happen to the tomatoes in the greenhouse?! We all know how finicky tomatoes are.

From indoor plants to greenhouse crops, here is how to care for your treasured plants and veg while on holiday.

To prepare your plants for your holiday, try these tips:

1. Watering: Before leaving, give everything a final soak, especially in the summer months. There are a variety of ways to ensure your plants are thoroughly watered. For example, for outdoor plants, you could use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system. A DIY version is a wine bottle with a pierced cap to slowly release water onto the plants or, as my mum did, leave your plants in a bathtub or sink filled with water to provide continuous hydration.

2. Group indoor plants: Group your plants together based on their watering requirements. This will make it easier for anyone caring for your plants to provide the appropriate amount of water to each group.

3. Mulch outdoor plants: To help retain moisture in the soil outside, apply a layer of mulch around the base of your plants. Mulch acts as a protective barrier and reduces water evaporation, keeping the soil moist for a longer period of time.

4. Create a temporary greenhouse: If your plants like humidity, place your indoor plants on a pebble tray, then use a plastic container or bag to create a temporary greenhouse effect and help retain moisture.

5. Adjust temperature and lighting: Move your plants away from large sunny windows and maintain as much airflow and ventilation as possible to prevent heat damage. Check the thermostat to ensure the house will not get too hot (or too cold) and protect your plants.

6. Inform and train a plant concierge: If you will be absent for a longer period of time, consider asking someone to care for your plants. Make sure they have detailed instructions on watering, light requirements, and any specific plant care needs. Give them a tour of your garden or indoor plants and explain where to get water, any feeding required, how and when the plants need care, solid moisture levels, and any attention required during the absence and set up a WhatsApp group between you so that communication is easy, and pictures can be shared to provide a visual overview.

7. Perform pre-departure garden maintenance: Before setting off, go a last-minute check for pest infestations or diseases and address them, update the plant concierge, and then harvest all ripe produce to prevent rot or attracting pests.

The length of your absence is crucial when planning ahead! Engaging a friendly neighbour or a dedicated plant sitter and introducing them to your beloved plants and garden will truly help and ensure your plants stay vibrant and healthy until you're back!

Feel free to leave a comment below if there are any tips we have missed!