✈️ Before You Go on Holiday
Going away for a Christmas vacation? Take some time before you leave to ensure your garden will cope during your absence and will still be looking good when you return
💧 Watering & Mulching
Water the plants deeply, giving the garden a thorough soak and cover the flower beds with a thick layer of mulch, straw, wood chips, compost, to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
🚿 Irrigation & Backup Watering
If you have an irrigation system, check that it is in full working order. Put inverted plastic bottles filled with water in containers, and maybe ask a neighbour to help with watering if possible.
🌤️ Containers & Hanging Baskets
Move containers and hanging baskets into dappled shade and add water-retaining granules to the soil. Water well.
🥕 Harvesting & Sharing
Harvest any mature vegetables and, if a neighbour is helping out with some watering, let them help themselves to any veggies or fruit that ripen while you are away.
🌱 Weed Control
Make sure all weeds are removed before watering and mulching. Weeds soon spread and will compete with plants for precious water.
🌾 Lawn Care
If you have a lawn, raise the mower blades before you mow to allow the grass to grow longer. This will protect the roots from being burnt by the hot Summer sun which results in an unattractive brown lawn.
🐛 Pest Checks
Check for any pests such as aphids, white fly, red spider mite, slugs and snails, and spray with a homemade organic mixture. Remove any infested plants completely, but don’t discard them on the compost heap.
☀️ Sun Protection
Shadecloth is invaluable for protecting vulnerable bedding plants from the afternoon sun.
✂️ Pruning & Maintenance
Pinch out new buds on roses and other fast-growing plants to reduce the need for water. Deadhead annuals and perennials, and loosen soil around the roots.
🐦 Wildlife Care
Don’t forget to top up bird baths for thirsty birds, along with ponds and water features.
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Village Gardens is widely recognised as one of Cape Town’s best landscaping and garden design firms. Based in the Southern Suburbs, they pair creative vision with environmental sensitivity—specialising in water-wise, indigenous, edible and wildlife-friendly gardens.