How to stop your plants dying while you're away on holiday

Our plants can suffer when we go on our summer hols. Hannah Stephenson looks at the common mistakes we make and how to address them.

Often, if it has rained, non-gardeners will assume container plants don't need watering, but if they are in sheltered positions close to the house they will still need a regular soaking.

The summer holiday is booked, the car is packed and the outlook seems sunny - until you start wondering how your plants are going to survive in your absence.

Too many times gardeners return from their break to wilted annuals, shrivelled hanging baskets and lawns that look like straw, but there are ways to mitigate the casualties.