How to care for your plant friends over the holiday break

How to Keep Your Plants Happy Over Christmas in Australia

The festive season is a time for celebration, connection, and often, a well-deserved holiday. But while you’re enjoying Christmas barbecues, beach days, and time with loved ones, your plants are still at home, facing the peak of Australia’s summer heat. At Plantfulness, we know how important it is to keep your plants thriving, even when life gets busy or you’re away. Here’s our guide to ensuring your garden stays happy and healthy over Christmas.

Hydration Is Key

December’s scorching temperatures can be tough on your plants, so keeping them well-watered is essential. If you’re home during Christmas, establish a consistent watering routine, focusing on early mornings or late afternoons when evaporation is minimal. Deep watering ensures the roots soak up enough moisture to survive the heat.

If you’re heading away, set up an irrigation system or invest in self-watering pots. For a budget-friendly option, use upturned water-filled bottles or watering spikes to slowly release moisture into the soil. Adding mulch to your garden beds is another great way to retain water, reduce evaporation, and keep the soil cool. Our friends at Nylex, Hills and Pope have great watering options for times when you cannot water your plants yourself.

Provide Shade

The Australian sun can be relentless, so protect your plants by creating shaded areas. Use shade cloths, umbrellas, or even old bedsheets to shield delicate plants, especially those in pots that can overheat quickly. If you have movable pots, cluster them together in a shaded spot to reduce their exposure to direct sunlight.

For vegetable gardens or young seedlings, a light cover can prevent scorching and help them stay hydrated during the hottest parts of the day.

Prep Before Your Holiday

If you’re going away for the holidays, take a few simple steps to prepare your plants:

1. Prune and Trim: Remove dead or damaged leaves to reduce the plant’s water needs and prevent pests or diseases from taking hold.
2. Group Pots Together: Place your potted plants in a shaded area and group them closely to create a microclimate that retains humidity.
3. Water Deeply Before You Leave: Give your plants a thorough soak the day before your departure to ensure they start with plenty of moisture.
4. Add Mulch: Spread a thick layer of organic mulch around your plants to lock in moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Enlist a Plant Sitter

If you have a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member nearby, consider asking them to check in on your plants while you’re away. Provide clear instructions, such as how often to water and which plants need extra attention. A quick walkthrough of your garden or a checklist can make the process simple for them and reassuring for you.

As a thank-you, you could offer some homegrown produce or a small Christmas gift—it’s a win-win for everyone!

Fertilise with Caution

While it might be tempting to give your plants a boost during summer, avoid heavy fertilizing right before Christmas. Fertilizers encourage new growth, which requires more water and can stress your plants in the heat. Instead, focus on keeping your plants healthy and hydrated. You can resume feeding them once the extreme heat has passed.

Look After Your Indoor Plants

Indoor plants need love too, especially during the busy holiday season. Place them in a well-lit but cool spot away from direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves through glass windows. Keep them hydrated by checking the topsoil regularly and ensuring proper drainage.

If you’re going away, group indoor plants together in a well-lit corner and consider using a pebble tray to increase humidity. For low-maintenance care, water them thoroughly before leaving and use a self-watering system if needed.

Keep an Eye Out for Pests

Summer in Australia brings an increase in pests, from aphids to spider mites. Regularly check your plants for any signs of infestation, such as yellowing leaves, sticky residue, or small insects. Treat problems early with natural solutions like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a good rinse with water.

For those going away, a healthy plant is less likely to attract pests. Pruning, deep watering, and mulching will go a long way in ensuring your plants stay pest-free during your absence.

Celebrate the Season with Your Plants

Christmas is a wonderful time to enjoy the beauty of your garden. Decorate outdoor spaces with fairy lights, create natural wreaths with foliage and flowers from your garden, or harvest fresh herbs and vegetables for festive meals. Including your plants in your celebrations not only enhances the holiday spirit but also reminds you of the joy and relaxation they bring.

By following these tips, you can keep your plants happy and thriving over the Christmas period. Whether you’re staying home or heading off on a holiday, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your garden continues to flourish.

From all of us at Plantfulness, we wish you and your plants a joyful and thriving festive season!