Heading off on a well-earned break? While you’re packing your suitcase and planning your adventures, it’s easy to worry about what will happen to your plants in your absence. The good news is, with the right preparation, you can enjoy your holiday without returning to wilted leaves or dried-out borders.
In this guide, we’ll share our top holiday plant care tips for both houseplants and outdoor garden plants, from simple watering solutions to mulching and smart positioning, so your green friends thrive while you’re away.
1. Assess Your Plants Before You Go
Before you leave, take time to check:
Which plants are the most thirsty (e.g. ferns, petunias) vs. drought-tolerant (e.g. succulents, lavender).
Which plants are in full sun vs. shade.
Any signs of pests or disease - treat these early so they don’t spread while you’re gone.
2. Holiday Care Tips for Outdoor Garden Plants
💧 1. Water Thoroughly Before You Leave
Give plants a deep soak the day before you go. Water at the base so moisture reaches the roots.
🌾 2. Mulch to Lock In Moisture
Mulching is one of the most effective ways to reduce evaporation and keep soil cool. Apply a layer of organic matter like bark, compost, or straw around plants.
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🪴 3. Group Pots Together
Move container plants into a sheltered, shaded spot and cluster them together — this creates a more humid microclimate and reduces water loss.
🌦 4. Use Watering Spikes or Irrigation Systems
Install a simple drip irrigation kit or use water spikes/bottle feeders for consistent moisture.
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3. Holiday Care Tips for Houseplants
🪴 1. Move Plants Out of Direct Sunlight
Shift houseplants away from hot windowsills to prevent them from drying out too quickly. Bright, indirect light is best while you’re away.
💧 2. Self-Watering Solutions
Self-watering planters with reservoirs can keep plants hydrated for days.
Try the DIY method: a bottle of water turned upside-down into the soil or a string wick from a water-filled jar into the pot.
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🌿 3. Group Plants Together
Just like with outdoor pots, clustering plants increases humidity and slows water loss.
🪟 4. Give a Pre-Holiday Feed
A light liquid feed before you go helps boost plant health so they’re better able to cope with a short dry spell.
4. For Longer Trips (2+ Weeks Away)
If you’re away for more than two weeks, ask a friend, neighbour, or family member to pop in and water your plants. Offer simple instructions — or even leave labelled watering cans ready for use.
5. Extra Holiday Plant Care Tips
Deadhead flowers before leaving to encourage fresh blooms when you return.
Weed your beds so plants aren’t competing for water.
For lawns, raise the mower blades for the last cut to protect grass from scorching.
Invest in a rain barrel so your helper has an easy water source.
Conclusion
With a little planning, it’s easy to keep your plants healthy while you’re on holiday. Whether it’s through mulching, self-watering systems, or a friendly neighbour’s help, your garden and houseplants will be ready to welcome you home in full bloom.
Pop into our garden centre to browse mulches, self-watering planters, and irrigation kits, or shop online for everything you need to prepare your plants before your next getaway.
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🪴 Shop Houseplant Care Accessories »