The Which? Gardening Editor has shared advice on how to keep plants alive when away on holiday. The guidance suggests focusing watering efforts on the most vulnerable plants rather than the entire garden.
Patio pots, hanging baskets, newly planted items, and fruiting or greenhouse vegetables are identified as needing the most attention due to their susceptibility to drying out quickly or still establishing roots. Checking the weather forecast before leaving is also recommended, as hot, sunny days will increase the need for watering.
For short trips, simple methods include moving pots to a shady spot, grouping them together, and providing a thorough soak. Standing pots in saucers of water can offer extra moisture, but prolonged periods should be avoided to prevent root rot. For longer absences, the Autopot Easy2go Watering Kit and Big Drippa Watering System were found to be effective for pots, though they require a reservoir. Automatic irrigation systems connected to an outdoor tap or water butt are suggested for those who travel frequently, with battery-powered water timers proving more reliable than solar models in tests.