Protecting your plants from wind damage should be a top priority for any gardener. You can effectively reduce the risk of wind damage by staking and securing tall plants, using supports, and planting living windbreaks or hedges. It's also important to think carefully about where you plant and to take advantage of the natural shelter offered by your house, sheds, and garden buildings. Remember, with some preparation, you can keep your plants safe and healthy even in the face of high winds.
I. When to Protect Plants from Wind and Storms
A. Early in the growing season
Early in the growing season, protecting your plants from unexpected temperature drops or frost is important. The length of the growing season varies depending on location and climate, so it is essential to estimate the number of frost-free days in your area. You can use in-ground instrumentation or approximate the last and first frost dates in the spring and fall, respectively. Preparing your plants for the early part of the growing season will help them thrive throughout the year. [1]
B. Strong winds or storms in the weather forecast
Strong winds or storms in the weather forecast can wreak havoc on your garden. The damage can range from bent stems to broken branches, resulting in stunted growth or death of the plants. To protect your plants from strong winds and storms, consider using supports like stakes and cages for taller plants, planting a living windbreak or hedge, or using artificial screens for immediate protection. Choosing the right shrubs and trees for exposed coastal sites can also help reinforce the importance of protecting your plants from wind damage. [2]
II. Short-Term Measures to Protect Plants from Wind Damage
A. Using cloches
Using cloches in the garden is an effective way to protect plants from cold winds and pests. It extends your growing season and can make more of your space. A cloche creates a small microclimate around the plant, keeping the air and soil moist to help plants survive droughts. You can make your clothes using plastic or glass covers, which come in different shapes and sizes for various plants. Always take care when using a cloche to avoid overheating your plants on hot and sunny days and to protect them from frost during cold nights. [3]
B. Using supports like stakes and cages for taller plants
Using stakes and cages is a great way to support taller plants, such as tomatoes and cucumbers. These structures provide a sturdy support system that helps prevent plants from becoming overwhelmed by their weight and toppling over. Whether you prefer to use individual stakes for each plant or larger cages to corral multiple plants, investing in proper support will ultimately lead to a healthier and more productive garden.
III. Long-Term Solutions to Wind Damage
A. Planting a living windbreak or hedge
One great way to protect your garden from the damaging effects of strong winds is to plant a living windbreak or hedge. These plantings act as natural barriers that reduce wind speeds and create a sheltered zone behind them. They're also attractive in the garden, providing bird nesting sites and habitat for other wildlife. Choose suitable trees and shrubs for your site, plant them close together, and protect their trunks with tree guards until they're established. With a bit of patience, you'll have a living windbreak that beautifies your property and provides valuable protection for your garden plants [4]
B. Using artificial screens for immediate protection
Artificial screens can immediately protect your plants when strong winds or storms are in the forecast. Products like Bybeton Artificial Ivy Privacy Fence Screen can effectively block intense light, ultraviolet rays, and dust. They are also sound-insulated, making them a versatile option to use in different environments. These screens can be attached to wood frames or chain-link fences, making them convenient and easy to install. They don't require watering or cutting, saving you time and money. [5]
C. Choosing suitable shrubs and trees for exposed coastal sites
Choosing the right shrubs and trees for exposed coastal sites is crucial for a thriving garden. Trees like Acer pseudoplatanus, Alnus glutinosa, and Carpinus betulus AGM can tolerate full exposure to sea winds. Meanwhile, Olearia x scilloniensis 'Master Michael' and Ozothamnus rosmarinifolius 'Silver Jubilee' are hardy evergreen shrubs that flourish in harsh winds. Selecting plants that match the existing growing conditions is important to ensure success. Luckily, there are many beautiful and resilient options available for coastal gardens.
