Coping mechanisms
February is one of the hottest months of the year, with some parts of the country experiencing severe hailstorms. Try these strategies to help your garden cope:
Heat Mulch around shrubs – leaving a space around the stems – to keep soil cool, retain moisture, discourage germination of weeds and insulate soil from temperature extremes. Suitable mulching material includes coarse compost, pine needles, bark chips or nuggets, nut shells and peach pips. Straw is not attractive in the ornamental garden, but is effective when used between rows of vegetables and herbs.
Humidity Fungal diseases breed in hot, humid conditions. Allow plenty of space between plants so that air can circulate freely. Spray affected foliage with Funginex or Rosecare. Some plants that originate in winter rainfall regions and the Mediterranean may be less prone to rotting if an inorganic mulch, such as gravel chips or stones, is used.
Hailstorms In areas prone to hailstorms, it can be devastating to see your beautifully tended garden being thrashed by hail stones. However, after the storm has passed, don’t be in a hurry to remove damaged leaves as this will help to protect new growth from sunburn. Gather and dispose of damaged and fallen fruit but don’t add it to the compost heap as the decaying fruit will encourage fruit flies to breed.
Bark on fruit trees that has been damaged or bruised by hail should be protected from sunburn and disease by wrapping the trunk with a commercial tree wrap.
The actual amount of nitrogen in hail is minimal so don’t change your regular fertilising programme.