It is fair to say that the weather in Ireland has been atrocious in the last 6 weeks as we make our way through the apparent summer season. Gardens are suffering and efforts throughout the spring destroyed. However, there are some simple things that you can consider or do to reverse and overcome the effects (By the way I hope that by publishing this article today that Murphy’s Law will work the other way around and that the rain will stop:))
One problem we are facing is drainage. Realistically, it is not always possible to avoid drainage issues; you can use plastic covering although this isn’t the most practical method and can be a hassle to secure. On the other hand, planting your vegetables or flowers in raised beds can do the trick. If you use freestanding containers then even better; you can elevate them easily using bricks or even bring them inside if you have the suitable space or a garage. If you are looking to create your garden now, position beds and borders close to the house.
Avoid walking on your grass or mowing whilst it is wet. If you live in a built up area then you will know that there is no need to watch the weather for the moment when you can get out there; the sound of mowers far and wide will alert you to take action!
To tackle the damage your garden has already endured, remove dead or damaged flowers to encourage new flowers to form. Feed plants often as the constant rain is washing the nutrients out of the soil. Weeds will be popping up everywhere and are a constant for gardeners ensuring there is always something to do whatever the weather!
Slugs are a big problem that comes with the continuous wet weather. They are multiplying, fast. They are no doubt in their element at this moment and are happily feasting on your vegetable patches and destroying flower beds. If you are looking to protect a vegetable patch then for health reasons sprays aren’t usually an option. Pellets are a hazard to other small animals and are therefore not recommended although there is nothing to say that you can’t take this route if you wish. What options are left? Most people tend to go for one of two options; salt or by hand. Salt is very effective and a popular choice, especially for the squeamish! Cutting back plants can be helpful to increase visibility for birds. Blackbirds and Thrushes will be more than happy to give you a helping hand.
If you want to start a fresh and replace those damaged plants or vegetables, you can. As we are already in July the easiest thing to do is check out the packaging when buying your seeds as they tend to be able to advise. Options for this time of year include cabbage, peas, carrots and celery. Radish and lettuce grow quickly so should be okay as well.
The bad weather isn’t the end of your garden, even this late in the year. Rescue your garden so you can relax and make the most of those occasional bouts of sunshine!
If you have any tips of your own please feel free to comment below. And don’t forget that if you don’t want the hassle of doing all this work yourself, you can always get up to 4 gardening quotes fast from rated gardeners here on Tradesmen.ie:)
Cheers
Oliver Dempsey
Tradesmen.ie
