You’ve finally planned your next vacation, but then you look around your garden and wonder if you’re going to come back to what you worked so hard to create.
The good news is that taking a well-deserved break doesn’t mean your garden has to suffer as a result.
Top Tips for Caring for Your Garden From Afar
Before embarking on a cruise or jumping on a flight, there are a few ways you can prepare your prized garden for your time away so that you can actually relax.
Install a Self-Watering System
A self-watering system can be a game changer while you’re away.
Drip irrigation kits connected to a timer are perfect for garden beds, providing consistent watering with minimal waste so you don’t come home to a scary water bill.
For potted plants, consider using watering spikes, globes, or self-watering planters. These tools release water into the soil gradually, keeping moisture levels steady.
It’s best to set these up a few days before your trip as a test run so that you can adjust the flow if necessary.
Mulch Generously
Mulching is one of those simple yet highly effective gardening tips.
By applying a 2 to 4-inch layer of mulch such as straw, shredded bark, grass clippings, or composted leaves around your plants, it’s much easier to conserve water in your garden while you’re on vacation.
Mulching is particularly useful if you live in an area with hot and windy weather.
Water Deeply Before You Leave
Give your garden a thorough soaking the day before you depart.
Deep watering encourages roots to grow further into the soil, which makes your plants more resilient to dry conditions.
Use a soaker hose until the soil is moist several inches below the surface. It’s also best to do this early in the morning or late afternoon to limit evaporation.
Move Potted Plants
Potted plants tend to dry out faster than those in the ground, especially if they’re in direct sunlight, so it’s best to move your potted plants to shadier areas before you travel.
You want to make sure the spot still receives enough light for your plants to thrive, but enough shade to reduce the risk of heat stress and excessive water loss. Under a covered patio or tree, or along a shaded wall works well.
Trim, Prune, and Harvest
Before you leave for your vacation, take some time to tidy up your garden.
Trim back any fast-growing plants, remove dead or dying leaves, and deadhead flowers to encourage fresh blooms to grow. It’s also best to harvest any ripe fruit and vegetables to prevent spoilage and avoid attracting pests.
Doing all of this helps lighten the load on your plants and allows them to focus their energy on staying healthy.
Ask for a Helping Hand
Even with all your prep, you may still want to ask a trusted friend or neighbour to stop in every now and then to make sure your plants are happy and healthy. You don’t even need to leave your keys with them since everything they need will be outside.
Peace of Mind While You’re Away
With a little preparation, your garden can continue to thrive even while you’re enjoying a well-deserved break.
Taking these simple steps can protect your garden and give you peace of mind knowing it will be happy and healthy on your return.
