Gardens require plenty of upkeep throughout the spring and summer months to make it look appealing, but all of your good work could be undone within a few hours during a particularly strong storm
Gardening enthusiasts, take note: your green-fingered efforts throughout spring and summer could be at risk from the unpredictable British weather. A sudden storm can wreak havoc in just hours, but fear not, there are ways to shield your botanical beauties from the wrath of extreme winds.
Regular watering and pruning are key to nurturing your garden, yet even the most diligent horticulturists can fall victim to Mother Nature’s fickle moods. Scorching heat demands more frequent watering, while frost may necessitate covering delicate plants.
However, it’s the often-overlooked strong winds that can cause the most damage, leaving your cherished plants and flowers in tatters. But you can fortify your garden against impending gales.
Start by clearing any debris that could become airborne missiles targeting your plants. Securely fasten down any garden fleeces or netting to prevent them from being whisked away – it only takes one gust to unravel your hard work.
The gardening experts at Grow Veg advised: “Climbing plants should be securely tied at regular intervals to sturdy supports so wind can’t get any purchase on them,” reports the Express.
It added: “If severe wind is forecast and you are worried about climbers snapping, consider untying them from their supports and carefully laying them on the ground, out of harm’s way, until the storm has passed.
“You may be better off cutting back particularly lofty herbaceous perennials that are already done for the season. Most will be absolutely fine left to their own devices, but newly planted ornamentals that aren’t yet well-rooted may rock back and forth so much they loosen from the ground.”
If you’ve got branches hanging over your garden, it might be worth giving them a trim. Strong winds can cause branches to break, and anything underneath is at risk.
This is especially crucial if you have a greenhouse or vegetable patch. Regular winter pruning should keep this issue at bay.
But, for ultimate wind protection, forward planning is key. Permeable windbreaks can significantly reduce wind speed, offering remarkable garden protection.
Hedges and bushes around your garden’s perimeter make excellent windbreaks. And remember to plant your flowers at regular intervals for stronger growth.
