When you dedicate significant time to perfecting your garden over the summer, it can be disheartening to see your hard work undone by a bout of wet weather. As autumn arrives, the likelihood of heavy rainfall increases. So, what plants should we pay special attention to, and how can we minimize damage to our gardens?
How Does Heavy Rain Affect Gardens?
Sudden changes from sunshine to heavy rain can stress plants by disrupting their water regulation.
“During dry spells, plants reduce their water intake to conserve moisture. But a sudden downpour can waterlog their roots, preventing them from absorbing oxygen,” says Oliver Hill, founder of the gardening site Garden List. “This can stunt growth, cause leaves to yellow, and increase the risk of diseases like root rot.”
Vulnerable Plants
Delicate plants, like roses, are particularly susceptible to damage from heavy rain.
“Plants with fragile foliage and blooms, such as roses, peonies, and certain herbaceous perennials, are especially vulnerable,” Hill explains. “Heavy rain can weigh down flowers, leading to bent or broken stems. Similarly, plants in poorly drained soil, such as succulents, are highly prone to root damage, as they aren’t adapted to waterlogged conditions.”
Impact on Soil
Excessive rain can also harm the soil.
“Too much rain can compact soil, cause erosion, and wash away essential nutrients,” says Hill. “Waterlogged soil deprives plant roots of oxygen, making it harder for plants to absorb nutrients. This is even more of a problem in clay-heavy soils, where standing water can lead to further compaction.”
Preparing for Heavy Rain
To minimize the impact of heavy rainfall, there are steps you can take beforehand.
“Check your drainage,” advises Hill. “Make sure gutters, drains, and runoff areas are clear.”
Mulching is another effective method. Adding a thick layer of organic matter, like manure, compost, or bark, to your flower beds helps absorb excess water and protects the soil’s structure.
It’s also important to give delicate plants extra support. “Staking or supporting tall, top-heavy plants can help prevent them from collapsing,” Hill suggests. Moving potted plants to a sheltered area is another precaution. “Place them in protected spots to keep them from becoming waterlogged or damaged by the rain,” he adds.
During Heavy Rain
While it’s raining, monitor your garden for water pooling or plant damage. “If it’s safe, you can redirect excess water from areas prone to flooding by creating temporary channels or barriers,” Hill advises. He also recommends staying off wet soil, as walking on it can compact it further.
After the Rain
Once the rain has passed, start by checking for plant damage and repairing supports. Clear away any debris or silt that has accumulated.
“You can also aerate the soil with a garden fork to improve drainage,” says Hill. “If your garden is waterlogged, consider adding sand or compost to improve the drainage in problem areas.”
Lastly, apply a light feed to replace any nutrients that may have been washed away during the storm.