MARTYN COX’S CITY GARDENER
Martyn has some timely advice about wood and how to help it get through the winter unscathed
Good plants for under trees, repairing turf
FROM fences to pergolas, sheds, raised beds. border edging and furniture, timber is one of the most widely used materials in our gardens. Yet, there’s a down side to this natural material. Over time, exposure to sun, rain, snow, frost and salt-laden winds can spoil the appearance and stability of wooden structures. Without care, the lifespan of anything made of wood is dramatically reduced, especially over winter when moisture penetrating unprotected wood can lead to rotting and mould, along with moss growing on the surface. Ultimately, structures that are weakened by weather damage are also vulnerable to being blown down by a gusty blast.
To increase the lifespan of wooden structures, it’s important to give them some attention before the weather takes a turn for the worse. Treat wooden surfaces with oil, varnish, paint or other preservatives. Scrub down dirty surfaces prior to treatment and allow to dry beforehand.
Perimeter fences take the brunt of windy weather over winter so it’s important to make sure their structure is sound. Replace broken slats and ensure that gravel boards are in good condition. These prevent standing water and rain splashes from penetrating the upper fence, so replace if necessary.
Fortunately, the wooden posts that hold my fence are structurally sound. Rotting ones are unlikely to remain upright in stormy weather, so prevent damage to your garden from falling timber by shoring up decaying uprights with a concrete or metal spur (available at DIY stores and garden centres).
Ideally, stash wooden garden furniture in a shed or garage. If you don’t have any storage space, give them a quick splash of preservative, and then move against a wall, fence or similar rain shadow – protect with a waterproof cover, making sure it’s large enough to completely cover the legs.