July 2024
Holiday Plant Care
Ensure your plants stay happy and healthy if you’re away this summer with these handy tips:
Garden Container Plants
Make sure that all planters are thoroughly watered before you leave and that the compost is fully hydrated throughout (no shrinkage away from the sides).
If possible, move plants to a shadier or more sheltered spot to slow down moisture loss.
Group containers together to help create a microclimate of cool, moist air.
Add a generous layer of mulch (even sheets of wet newspaper) to retain moisture.
Sit containers in troughs or saucers to collect any rainwater (be sure to remove these when you return if the weather has been very wet as most plants don’t like to be waterlogged for too long).
Fill plastic water bottles and make a SMALL hole in the cap. Nestle the upturned water bottle into the compost for gradual water release. Tailor the size of the water bottle according to the container. This is a great tip for hanging baskets
Houseplants
Move plants away from sunny spots and window sills to a cooler room.
Use watering spikes (or homemade versions with plastic water bottles as detailed above).
Line a bath or sink with thick wads of damp newspaper or old towels, to stand plants on.
The wick method is good for large houseplants. Fill a large container with water and dip a length of fabric or capillary matting to act as a moisture wick tucked firmly into the compost at the other end.