Wet Weather Gardening Tips

A lush and verdant landscape requires abundant rainfall

. However, the record-breaking precipitation across the UK has put a dampener on many a gardeners hard work. Gazing out the window upon droopy plants and puddles is enough to put even the most passionate gardener in a foul mood. Why not take advantage of the gardening exile? Grab a cup of tea and use this time to evaluate the garden, consider solutions, and make the most of a blustery day.

Depending on local conditions there are a number of challenges facing a waterlogged garden. Prolonged rainfall and lack-lustre sunshine often leave lofty plants swimming in the mud. Evergreens and many perennials suffer from weak yellow tips. The grass is over grown; weeds have taken over and cool wet weather is ideal for fungal diseases and a host of troublesome pests.

Rest assured, there are steps any determined gardener can take to minimize damage and return the garden to health. When that first dry day tries to seduce you into the garden, resist the urge. Walking and working in wet soil can aggravate the situation and mowing the grass while wet invites disease and working the soil causes further compaction. Plants that have taken a beating may however, benefit from a trim and gentle staking for added support. If fungal disease has taken hold, trim the plant to allow for better air circulation then treat with a mixture of baking soda and water, compost tea or a commercially available fungicide. Just be sure to remove all contaminated plant material so spores do not continue to spread throughout the garden.

When the soil is no longer waterlogged, inspect the roots of any troubled plants. If they appear black, soggy and soft, the roots are probably standing in water. A quick remedy is to increase the size of the hole and incorporate compost to improve drainage; if possible, consider creating a trough or drain to carry water away from the planting bed. Weather trends for the UK indicate that an increase rainfall and cooler weather may become the norm. Now may be time to mound perennial borders or construct raised beds.

Despair not; there are many creative ways to embrace this soggy state and craft a lovelier landscape. In low-lying areas consider creating a beautiful bog garden. Plants well suited for soggy soil include irises, miscanthus, astilbes, primulas, hostas, gunnera, and rodgersia. An eyesore becomes a focal point with the addition of a pedestal, sculpture or a striking pot. Troubled runoff portions of the garden are perfectly suited for a rain garden. Both attractive and functional, rain gardens are designed to facilitate the re-absorption of rainwater as well as retain nutrients. Deep-rooted native plants work best in these areas.

By embracing wet weather gardening, less time is spent fighting nature leaving more time to enjoy the garden.

by: Holly Garnett

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