While July and August can be hot, they can also be very wet – as most of us saw last week!
Thunderstorms and torrential rainfall present a real challenge for gardeners. Here are a few ideas for ways in which you can guard against flooding and damage to plants.
Good drainage is key
If poor drainage is a consistent problem in your garden, it’s probably time to consider a long-term solution. Installing a soakaway or land drain system is likely to be successful but can be expensive and disruptive. If your soil is heavy with clay, introducing some aggregate and a lighter topsoil mix can be a cheaper solution. Evening out any dips should stop your lawn from becoming waterlogged. If you have a slope, well-drained raised beds at the lower end can also be a way of controlling moisture levels.
Make sure pots and containers can drain easily
All pots and containers need drain holes, whether they are plastic, terracotta, or wood. In addition, filling the bottom with small stones, larger-sized gravel or speciality hydro grains before planting, means that any heavy rainfall will drain away efficiently, protecting your plants from damage.
Cover garden furniture
As we spend more and more time in our gardens, we are also investing more in well-made garden furniture, which needs protecting from the elements. Lifestyle garden furniture covers, for example are lightweight, durable and extremely easy to take on and off, so are ideal for the changeable weather we see in a typical UK summer.
Finally, a good pair of wellies will make gardening in the rain much easier!
