How to Holiday Proof Your Garden?
It's getting closer to the holiday season, and understandably, you might be worried about the health of your garden for the summer months you're away.
After spending time creating the perfect wildlife garden and inviting all sorts of local wildlife into your garden, you want it to thrive, even whilst you're away for a week. By holiday proofing, you can be sure your wildlife garden remains in good shape for a week or two, and the birds still get fed!
We've got top tips on keeping plants watered and how to make sure flowers last!
Deadhead Flowers
Remove spent blooms from your flowering plants before you leave. This encourages new growth and keeps your garden looking fresh. Deadheading also helps garden plants focus energy on sustaining vibrant flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Group Together Pots & Water
Arrange your container plants close together to create a mini microclimate, which helps retain moisture. Water them thoroughly before your holiday, and if possible, place them in shaded spots to reduce evaporation.
Terracotta pots will need more water as they dry out much faster than plastic ones in dry weather.
Moving your hanging baskets to shaded or protected areas can also prevent them from drying out too quickly.
Opt for Drought-Tolerant Plants
Choose drought-tolerant or native plants for your garden to reduce the need for frequent watering. These plants are well adapted to dry conditions and will thrive even if you’re away for a while, helping your garden stay resilient during hot weather.
Set Up a Drip Irrigation System
Consider installing a drip irrigation or self-watering system to water plants automatically. These systems deliver water directly to the roots, minimising waste and ensuring your garden stays watered consistently while you’re away.
Fill Up Bird Feeders
Stock up your bird feeders with plenty of seed or nuts to keep the local birds well-fed while you’re gone. Make sure feeders are clean and full so birds can easily access food. Using feeders with covers can help protect food from rain and spoilage.
Add Mulch to the Soil
Apply a layer of mulch to the soil surface around your plants and garden beds to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Mulch suppresses weeds and improves soil quality as it breaks down, reducing the need for maintenance during your absence.
Harvest Any Crops
Pick any ripe fruits, vegetables, or herbs before you leave to prevent overripening or attracting pests. Regular harvesting encourages further production and keeps your garden neat. You might also consider sharing your harvest with neighbours or friends.
Check Shelter (Bird Boxes, etc.)
Inspect bird boxes, hedgehog houses, and insect hotels to ensure they’re secure and clean. Remove old nesting material or debris that could harbor parasites. Providing safe shelter supports wildlife when natural habitats may be limited.
Mow the Lawn
Mow your lawn before your holiday, but avoid cutting it too short. Longer grass helps retain moisture and provides cover for insects and small animals. A well-maintained lawn prevents overgrowth and reduces the chances of pests nesting.
