GARDEN
early winter and pre-winter rains , there are a few things you can do to help . First of all , try to drain water away from beds – flower beds , beds with cacti and succulents , and of course , beds containing fruit and vegetable plants .
To avoid water collecting in a pool and potentially drowning your plants , make a proper runoff that slopes away from your plants and either runs off out of your property ( not into your neighbour ’ s !). This might require some serious digging , so enlist help if you think you need it , and remember to keep it clear from leaves and debris , so that the water can flow freely .
Toxic compounds can also build up in saturated soils and fungal growth can start to develop .
During warmer , sunny spells between rain , you can help your beds by de-compacting exposed soil . Simply use a garden fork to loosen the topsoil and then mix in plenty of compost or mulch to improve soil drainage . Add a thick layer of mulch around your plants to further improve water retention and help protect plant root systems .
Clean and clear your gutters
Clean all your gutters and remove any debris . You may have to do this regularly during the winter period , after any heavy storms . You want to allow the water to flow freely into your storage tanks and prevent
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Prices were correct at the time of going into print , but can change without warning at any time .
86 MARKtoe ! Julie 2023