Gardens that regularly flood may benefit from more permanent drainage solutions. A soakaway— a deep pit filled with stones, rubble and coarse material— allows excess water to drain slowly into the ground. Alternatively, a pond positioned at the lowest point of the garden can help collect and redistribute excess water while creating an attractive wildlife feature.
What to do after flooding
If your garden experiences flooding, safety and sanitation are essential. Wear gloves and sturdy footwear when working in flood-damaged areas. Remove debris promptly, clean hard surfaces thoroughly and dispose of any edible produce touched by contaminated floodwater. Plants weakened by flooding are vulnerable to pests and disease, so applying suitable fungicides or insecticides may be necessary during recovery. Although heavy winter rainfall can be frustrating, it also highlights drainage and erosion problems that can be improved before the next wet season arrives.