Carol’s wet weather action plan
While our primary focus must be to collectively tackle the causes of climate change, here are some ways to temper wet weather or even turn it to your advantage
✔Collect rainwater
Rainwater is a boon – if we collect it. Especially if summers become drier, there may be more hosepipe bans, so it is important to save any rainwater that you can. Imagine how many roofs there are in the UK and how much rain falls on them. The most efficient way of storing collected water is in water butts. Initially, installation may seem expensive, but in the long run they may reduce water bills and more importantly will cut down on water use.
✔Createa bog garden
Making a virtue of necessity is always a good policy. In areas prone to flooding, make the most of the excess water by creating a bog garden, using an array of moisture-loving plants such as irises, astilbes and their ilk (see the previous page for some of my favourites). You can either simply plant these straight into the ground or you can dig out the soil to a depth of 30cm or so, lay some old compost bags in the base, with drainage holes punched in them with a garden fork, then replace the excavated soil and start planting. The advantage of the lined area is that if conditions should become dry in summer, the area can be watered (with collected water from your butts) and it won’t drain away as rapidly.
✔Combatsoil erosion
One of the most detrimental effects of excess rain and flooding is soil erosion, particularly on sloping ground and banks. After a flash flood here at Glebe Cottage, it seemed as though soil had moved a step further down the garden. If you have sloping ground, the best way to prevent erosion is by ensuring there are plenty of plants covering the ground – and the best ones are those with deep roots and dense foliage. Periwinkles are a great choice and there are many lovely varieties.