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| With proper maintenance and preparation, you too will know there is a rainbow for your plants at the end of every storm. |
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Wicked Weather!
We've really had a bit of wicked weather lately and it makes one wonder how to prevent, or at least limit, damage to our gardens. Whether it is a summer downpour or a winter storm, what should we do?
First, when it comes to shrubs and trees, the best thing is to keep them well groomed. If you keep them from being leggy and twiggy, then the winds will not be able to damage them as much as they could. This will prevent the tearing of bark and trunks.
For larger trees or tall shrubs and perennials, stake them with the proper material. Be sure that the wire or twine used is not too tight around the trunks to cause any damage or girdling. Try putting pieces of old hose over the wire against the tree trunk to prevent it from cutting into the bark.
If you know a storm is coming, you should do what you can to wrap any larger shrubs and plants with burlap. Be sure it is secure. Having it too loose so it comes off in wind could be just as harmful as doing nothing at all.
If you don't have a chance to get out there to protect your plants prior to a storm, then assess the damage after a storm. Check on how to properly prune the particular plant so that any damage is reduced. Leaving a torn limb or branch can lead to greater problems in the future.
Most of all, don't worry, if your landscape has suffered damage, unless it is catastrofic, you can usually nuture the plantings back to health. Then you can find you rainbow.
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