Recovering Your Garden After Floods and Heavy Rain

The recent severe floods in Ingham have left many gardens struggling to recover. Beyond their environmental benefits, gardens play a crucial role in mental well-being, offering a sense of renewal after disaster.

Drawing from past flood recovery efforts, this 10-step guide outlines essential practices to help flood-affected gardens regain their strength.

10 Steps to Garden Recovery

Avoid Walking on Wet Soil –

Foot traffic compacts soil, making recovery harder. Wait until it dries before working in the garden.

Rinse Plants Thoroughly –

Fine silt clogs leaves, hindering photosynthesis. A gentle wash improves plant survival.

Watch for Wilting –

Waterlogged roots lack oxygen. If plants continue wilting after the soil dries, prune lightly.

Restore Soil Microbes –

Beneficial microbes help plants recover and prevent harmful fungi from taking hold. Apply microbial treatments.

Use Organic Fungicides –

Treat stressed plants before adding microbes to prevent fungal infections.

Protect Trees –

Flood-damaged trees may show distress months later. Apply fungicide now and follow up with microbial treatments.

Reduce Soil Compaction –

Improve soil structure by adding organic matter like mulch and compost.

Manage Silt Deposits –

Silt contains nutrients but compacts soil. Mix it with mulch and microbes to restore balance.

Check for Contamination –

Floodwaters can carry sewage, heavy metals, and chemicals. Test soil if contamination is suspected.

Delay Fertilising –

Stressed plants struggle to absorb nutrients. Wait a month before fertilising and use compost instead of synthetic products.

With patience and proper care, gardens can flourish once again—bringing not just greenery, but a renewed sense of hope.

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