January is the time of year when many of you will take a break and get away from home. And, if you're lucky - the sun will shine and the weather will be warm.

But what are you going to do about your garden while you're away? How are you going to ensure it looks in the same top form when you return?

You're going to mulch, that's what you're going to do. Mulch protects the soil from heat and provides a cooler soil temperature, which enables roots to pump water efficiently. This means it can survive a bit longer without watering. Though, if you're going on holiday for a significant period of time you may need to look into self-timer sprinkler watering.

And what are you going to plant at this time of year - before you head off on holiday, or while you're at the bach? You're going to plant livingstone daisies.

These colourful plants grow to around 30cm high and thrive in summer conditions - dry, sunny and windy. They're perfect for planting now - before you go away. And they're great for planting next to your caravan or bach because they don't mind being left to their own devices.

Just dig a little hole and plant. Monitor them to see if they need watering - but as I said they like it dry so they won't need much. Then sit back and wait for the colourful surprise on your return.