Tip one
Depending on the weather, if you have a lawn it is advisable to mow it with the blades on a low setting before your holiday to prevent it from becoming too overgrown when you return.
Tip two
Weeds are a big problem and if they are left to take root they could potentially become a persistent nuisance. Make sure you remove any weeds, including seedlings, from flower beds and borders before you leave. Apply a thick layer of mulch to bare soil between plants as this suppresses weeds and will also help the soil to retain moisture.
Tip three
If you are growing fruit and vegetables, try to harvest what you can before you go. Some vegetables, such as runner beans, courgettes and tomatoes, will need to be picked regularly as this will help to ensure they continue to produce new pods or fruits.
If you have someone who is able to look after your garden while you are away, you could offer them the excess fruit or vegetables in return for their help. However, if you have to leave it unattended, make sure you remove all ripening tomatoes and pods from runner beans and thoroughly water all your crops before leaving. If the weather looks likely to be warm and dry, it might be a good idea to install timed irrigation. Tip four
To reduce the amount of water needed by summer bedding plants, you could remove all flowers and buds. You can also delay repeat-flowering plants, like roses, from blooming while you are away by deadheading them before you leave.
Tip five
If you have a lot of plants in containers, move them into the shade and group them together to reduce the amount of water they require. This should help to increase the humidity levels around them.
If you planted them using water retentive granules, then if you water them well before you leave they should last until you return.
Tip six
Anyone with a pond should remove any pads from water lilies that are turning yellow, as well as deadheading any flowers from pond plants. This should prevent them from rotting.
Tip seven
It is generally a good idea to stop feeding plants before you go as this should slow down growth so they will require less water.
Tip eight
If you have houseplants it is important to make sure they are kept in a cool place, out of direct sunlight.
If you have several plants you could try placing a sheet of capillary matting on a draining board or a suitable surface next to the bath. Fill the sink or bath with water and place one end of the mat into the water. Group the plants onto the matting and make sure the bottoms of the pots are in contact with it.
Tip nine
Thoroughly water all parts of the garden before you leave, even if rain is forecast while you are away.
Tip 10
If you have hanging baskets you could try adding water absorbing gel or crystals. They will soak up any water if it rains and release it into the compost.
For more information, call Northampton Garden Centre on 01604 765725 or visit: www.northamptongardencentre.co.uk
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