- As summer temperatures increase, gardeners are encouraged to select drought-resistant plants to endure heatwaves, especially when away on holiday.
- Julian Palphramand, head of plants at British Garden Centres, suggests Mediterranean species like lavender and cistus, furry-leaved herbs such as rosemary, and succulents including sempervivums and aeoniums.
- His top five recommendations for drought-tolerant plants include Agapanthus, Achillea (yarrow), Sedum, Eryngium (sea holly), and Verbena bonariensis, all thriving in sunny, well-drained conditions.
- Herbs such as lavender and rosemary are suitable for pots but may require moving to a semi-shaded spot or even indoors if gardeners are away for longer than a week.
- Further advice for holiday plant care includes asking a neighbour to water, grouping pots in shade, providing a thorough soaking before leaving, using saucers, applying organic mulch, and utilising shade netting for delicate plants.
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