Going on holiday is a wonderful way to unwind and recharge, but it can be worrisome to leave your beloved garden behind. However, with some thoughtful preparation and the right choices, you can ensure that your garden thrives even in your absence. In this guide, we'll provide tips for watering, suggest resilient plants that can survive without constant care, and recommend a top selection of drought-tolerant plants to keep your garden looking fabulous while you're away.
1. Watering Tips:
- Deep Watering Before You Go: A day or two before your departure, give your garden a thorough deep watering. This will help ensure the plants have enough moisture to last for a few days without daily attention.
- Mulch to Retain Moisture: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants before you leave. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and keeps the soil temperature stable.
- Self-Watering Systems: Consider investing in self-watering systems or drip irrigation timers. These can be set up to release water at specific intervals, helping to keep your plants hydrated while you're away.
2. Plants that Can Survive Without Constant Care:
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Lavender is a hardy and drought-resistant plant that thrives in sunny spots. Its aromatic blooms not only attract bees and butterflies but also add a lovely fragrance to your garden.
- Sedum (Sedum spp.): Sedums are low-maintenance succulents that come in various shapes and colours. They can survive dry conditions and require minimal attention, making them perfect for holiday time.
- Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia): This stunning perennial features silvery foliage and delicate purple-blue flowers. Russian Sage is well-adapted to drought conditions and adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
3. Top 3 Drought-Tolerant Plants:
- Yucca (Yucca spp.): Yuccas are striking plants known for their sword-like leaves and impressive flower spikes. They are incredibly drought-tolerant and can withstand hot and arid conditions with ease.
- Agapanthus (Agapanthus spp.): Agapanthus, also known as the Lily of the Nile, produces eye-catching clusters of blue or white flowers. They are hardy and can endure dry spells, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.
- Oleander (Nerium oleander): Oleander is an evergreen shrub with beautiful, fragrant flowers. It is exceptionally drought-resistant and can thrive in sunny locations, adding a Mediterranean touch to your garden.
4. Plants That Could Be Compromised:
- Potted Plants: Container plants tend to dry out faster than those in the ground. If possible, move potted plants to a shaded area and group them together to create a microclimate that reduces water loss.
- Young Seedlings and Transplants: Newly planted seedlings or transplants have delicate root systems and may require more frequent watering. If you have any recent additions to your garden, ask a friend or neighbour to check on them.
5. Getting a Neighbour to Water for You:
If you have a friendly neighbour who is willing to help, ask them to water your garden a couple of times a week. Show them the areas that need attention and provide clear instructions on watering amounts.
Remember, Elmwood Nursery and Garden Centre can provide you with excellent watering solutions and a wide variety of drought-tolerant plants to ensure your garden stays healthy and vibrant while you enjoy your holiday. With a little preparation and the right plant choices, your garden will be flourishing when you return, and you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind. Happy holidays and happy gardening!
