As many South Africans eagerly await their much-deserved holiday break, one crucial aspect often gets overlooked amidst the excitement – preparing the garden for our absence. With a significant number of households leaving their homes to enjoy vacation time, it’s essential to ensure that our gardens are well cared for during this period. These tips and to-dos are designed to help you prepare your garden in such a way that, upon your return, you’re greeted by a space just as vibrant and thriving as when you left. Whether you’re headed to the coast, the mountains, or embarking on an international adventure, these practical steps will ensure your garden remains in top condition, ready to welcome you back home.
Mow the Lawn Properly Before Leaving
Before you head out on holiday, it’s crucial to mow your lawn correctly. Give it a thorough trim the day before your departure, followed by a deep watering. This preparation helps your grass stay hydrated and healthy while you’re away. In summer rainfall areas, accept that your grass will grow a bit longer during your absence. An important tip is to avoid cutting it too short before leaving, as this can expose the soil to harsh sun rays, increasing the risk of sun damage and drying out. The goal is to protect your lawn as much as possible while it’s unattended.
Weed and Mulch Garden Beds
Weeds can be a significant nuisance in your garden, especially when they compete with your plants for water and nutrients. Take the time to clear out all weeds between your plants. After weeding, apply a thick layer of mulch to your garden beds. Mulching is an excellent way to retain moisture in the soil, reduce water evaporation, and keep the roots of your plants cool. An economical and eco-friendly mulching option is to use newspapers. Lay down several layers of newspapers between your plants and cover them with a thin layer of compost or sand to prevent them from being blown away by the wind.
Prepare Container Plants
Container plants often require more attention, especially when you’re planning to be away. Water your hanging baskets and container plants deeply the day before leaving and apply a generous layer of mulch to conserve moisture. If possible, move these containers to shady areas where they won’t dry out quickly. This is particularly important for plants in terracotta pots, which tend to lose moisture faster. For extended holidays, consider using self-watering systems or asking a neighbor to water them every few days.
Indoor Plant Care
Indoor plants can suffer if left unattended, especially in direct sunlight. Before leaving, move your indoor plants to cooler spots with indirect sunlight. Water spikes are a handy solution for keeping your plants hydrated. They can provide sufficient water for a week or more, depending on the plant’s needs and the environment. If you plan to be away for longer, it might be a good idea to ask a friend or neighbor to check on your plants and water them if necessary.
Inspect Borders and Prune Plants
Your garden’s borders, particularly under climbers and hedges, are prone to developing dry patches. Before your holiday, loosen the soil in these areas with a garden fork, taking care not to damage the roots of plants like roses, which are often shallow. Then, water these areas thoroughly. Pruning certain plants like petunias and chrysanthemums by half before you leave reduces their water needs and makes them more wind-resistant. In windy gardens, use shadecloth to create mini-windbreaks for young shrubs and bedding plants.
Pest and Disease Check
A pre-holiday garden check should include a thorough inspection for pests and diseases. Look for signs of infestations, such as red spider mites, and treat them accordingly. If any plants are heavily infested, it might be best to remove them entirely to prevent the spread of pests or disease. Eco-friendly sprays can be effective, but be sure to apply them well in advance of your departure to ensure they have time to work.
Irrigation System Check
If you have an irrigation system, make sure it’s in perfect working order before you leave. Check for any blocked sprinklers and ensure the system covers all areas of your garden. Setting up a digital or manual timer can be a lifesaver, keeping your garden adequately watered in your absence. For large gardens, consider a multi-zone water distributor that can sequence watering across different areas.
Reduce Lawn Fertilization
In the two weeks leading up to your holiday, avoid fertilizing your lawn. Excess fertilization can lead to lush, green growth that requires more water and maintenance. Also, adjust your lawn mowing height. Mowing it slightly higher than usual will protect the soil from sun exposure and reduce the need for water.
Perlite for Patio Pots
Patio pots, especially large ones, can dry out quickly in the summer sun. To keep them hydrated, incorporate a product containing perlite into the soil. Perlite helps retain moisture and can be particularly effective in large pots that are difficult to move. Gently mix the perlite into the soil around your plants, being careful not to disturb the roots.
Lock Away Gardening Tools
Don’t forget to secure your gardening tools before leaving. Locking away your tools not only protects them from theft but also prevents them from being affected by weather conditions.
Utilize Neighbors’ Help
An effective way to ensure your garden remains cared for is to ask neighbors for help. Invite them to harvest vegetables from your veggie patch, which can promote new growth and prevent overgrowth.
Freeze Herbs for Later Use
Harvest and finely chop herbs, then freeze them in ice cube trays. This preserves their flavor far better than drying and provides you with ready-to-use herbs later in the year.
Large Indoor Plant Care
For large indoor plants, use a closed 2-litre bottle with a small hole in the cap filled with water. Insert the neck of the bottle into the soil for a slow, steady water supply.
Adjust Lawn Mowing Height
For your last mow before leaving, consider leaving the grass clippings on the lawn. They act as a natural mulch, helping to retain moisture and protect the lawn. Gradually return to your normal mowing height once you’re back.
This comprehensive guide ensures that your garden remains vibrant and healthy while you enjoy your holiday, making your return home a pleasant experience with a well-maintained garden greeting you.
