- Thursday 10 August 2023
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Even with Ireland's usual wet Summers, don't overlook your garden. In late August, after prolonged rain, prioritise these tasks to support your garden through heavy rainfall. Here is a concise checklist for your Irish garden's resilience.
Advantages of Rainy Summers for Plants and Soil
A wet Summer may seem inconvenient, but it's the main reason for our lush greenery and abundant gardens. Let's be grateful, especially when compared to the dry and uneven conditions in Southern Europe.
Here are the compelling reasons to embrace rainy Irish Summers:
- Rain offers a consistent and natural water source for plants, fostering growth.
- It aids seed germination and facilitates the development of strong root systems, resulting in healthier and more robust plants.
- Rainwater contributes to optimal soil nutrition by distributing vital atmospheric nutrients and minerals.
- Rain safeguards plants from heat and drought stress.
- Regular rain maintains moist conditions that prevent soil compaction and enhance soil aeration.
- Increased rainfall stimulates beneficial microbial activity that enlivens the soil.
- It reduces soil salinity, promoting healthier plant growth.
- Rainfall dislodges pests from plants, promoting natural pest control.
- A well-hydrated environment fosters greater biodiversity and a wider array of plant species.
- Many plant species are prompted to flower and fruit.
- You can forgo reliance on artificial irrigation, conserving piped water.
Shielding Your Garden Against Rainy Summer Conditions
After highlighting the benefits of rain, it's crucial to protect our plants from too much water. This helps prevent problems like root rot and fungal infections due to poor garden upkeep. Here are a few proactive gardening chores to prioritize this season.
Get Your Garden Ready for a Rain-Drenched Irish Summer or Autumn
Assess your garden's drainage capabilities. Can flood-prone zones be adjusted? When designing your lawn, ensure effective drainage. In the long run, opt for plants suited for rainy conditions, especially if your specific microclimate in Ireland necessitates it.
Be Alert for Pests Attracted by Rain
Look out for rain-induced pests like Snails and Slugs. Employ eco-friendly pest control options that are suitable for organic gardening, safe for children and pets, and long-lasting.
Avoid Fungal Diseases
- Be wary of dampness, mildew, and rot.
- Use fungicidal treatments to prevent fungal diseases.
- Groom your garden for better air circulation, trim waterlogged plants.
- Position robust plants to protect delicate ones and space them for airflow.
- Avoid overcrowding for better circulation during planting.
Prevent Excessive Watering and Use Water Wisely
- Avoid extra watering in constant rain. Check the forecast before resuming watering.
- Practice eco-friendly water collection methods such as collecting rainwater for dry periods.
- Ensure drainage for potted plants, shield them from leaching by incorporating slow-release fertiliser.
Foster a Strong Soil Base
- Improve soil health and retention.
- Use slow-release fertilisers against nutrient loss.
- If excessive rain weakens the soil, test pH and nutrient levels, supplementing with appropriate additives to support plant health.
Safeguard Your Garden Plants During Storms
As late Summer rain transforms into severe storms, prepare a wind barrier for rainstorms. Shield potted plants or move them to a sheltered spot so plants are ready to defend against heavy rain and strong gusts.
Identify and Address Waterlogged Plants
Despite precautions, plants might suffer in such conditions. Vigilance helps spot early overwatering or disease. Dispose of diseased plants away from healthy areas to prevent spread—avoid mulching infected material into soil.
Safeguard Your Constructed Garden Surfaces
Protect your garden structures too and prevent both slipping and erosion with treatments on dry days. Secure walls with Dulux or Farbex Fungicidal Wash to prevent mould and mildew. Remove algae with Westland Resolva Xtra Clean Green & Algae. Preserve wood using Ronseal's Shed and Fence Preserver.
Explore Additional Irish Gardening Tips
We trust these precautions assist you during damp Summer periods. Call into us at Bandon Co-op and talk to one of our experts and they can give you gardening tips to keep your garden looking healthy.
