Water
Prepare the garden before going away
Group movable pots by water and light needs in a sheltered suitable position.
When to do it
Several days before leaving, allowing time to test the arrangement.
What you need
- A reliable helper or tested watering system
- Simple written instructions
How to do it
- Group movable pots by water and light needs in a sheltered suitable position.
- Check irrigation, drainage and moisture. Test any timer or reservoir through several cycles while you are still home.
- Show a helper which plants need checking and how to judge moisture. Mark taps, shut-off points and any plants that should not be harvested after a treatment.
- Harvest ready produce, secure supports and leave a contact for problems. Arrange checks after extreme weather; automation can fail.
What success looks like
- Someone or a tested system can maintain the actual root moisture needs.
Watch out for
- Introducing an untested bottle-watering trick on departure day.
Related help
Check irrigation and adjust it to the weather
Check root moisture and recent rain before running the system.
Water and feed container plants
Feel below the surface and compare pot weight where safe.
Sources and review
Checked 24 September 2026. Source-checked editorial guidance; not field-tested or independently reviewed by a horticulturist.