Deirdre O Meara 
Spring Showers can destroy your garden before you even get a chance to enjoy it. Even though winter is over, we are still at risk of harsh weather conditions such as wind and rain. Gardeners need to take a few vital steps to protect their plants from the elements. Luckily, you don’t need to do a lot to keep your garden safe, as the experts at Greenhouse Sensation explained.
If you’ve got a greenhouse, it’s a good idea to move any potted plants inside to protect them from the elements. Failing that, moving them closer to walls or fences will offer some much-needed shelter. During spring, the temperature generally won’t drop low enough to need protection fleeces, but it’s still good to have them on hand.
Garden furniture and ornaments can be flung around during windy and rainy weather, landing in flower beds and knocking plants over. Make sure your ornaments are moved inside or properly secured to stop this from happening. Even pillows from lounge chairs can destroy plants if they land in the wrong place.
The wind can dry out the ground around your bedded plants, so make sure the plants are well hydrated before the storm hits. If there’s rain forecast, you can skip this step, but it’s still good to keep an eye on the moisture level before or after wind and rain. You can also use an embedding cloche to support bedded plants, and there are also cheap hacks you can try out, like using old milk cartons.
Plant supports will stop more delicate blooms from falling over during heavy rain and wind. Soft tie supports or string can be used to keep everything in its place. String can cut into plant stems if it’s too tight, so make sure there’s some wiggle room for new growth.
It is important to keep your garden well-maintained and healthy. This includes removing any dead or damaged plant material, as it can attract pests and diseases. You should also keep your lawn trimmed and tidy, as long grass can be a breeding ground for insects.
In addition to protecting your garden from harsh weather conditions, it’s also important to keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Aphids, slugs, and snails are common garden pests that can cause damage to your plants. If you notice any signs of infestation, it’s important to take action immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
Regularly inspecting your plants for signs of disease is also important. Look for any discoloration or unusual growth patterns, as these can be signs of disease. If you notice any issues, it’s best to seek advice from a gardening expert to determine the best course of action.
Watering your plants is also important, especially during dry spells. Make sure to water your plants thoroughly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. It’s also important to water your plants at the right time of day, as watering during the hottest part of the day can cause the water to evaporate too quickly.
In conclusion, protecting your garden from harsh weather conditions is important to ensure that your plants stay healthy and thrive. Taking a few simple steps, such as moving potted plants inside, securing garden furniture, and using plant supports, can help to keep your garden safe during spring showers. Regular maintenance and care, such as removing dead or damaged plant material, keeping your lawn trimmed, and monitoring for pests and diseases, is also important to keep your garden healthy and beautiful.
