When the wind gets up: getting your garden storm-ready

The forecast is looking lively, and the garden is about to get a thorough rearranging. A little preparation can help protect your plants and stop loose pots, baskets and furniture developing a life of their own.

The golden rule? Get ready before the storm arrives. If conditions are already rough, stay safely indoors. The garden can wait.

Give pots a sheltered spot

Move containers out of exposed positions, ideally somewhere sheltered at ground level. Tender plants can go into a suitable frost-free space where practical. Group pots together for a little mutual shelter, keeping smaller specimens away from anything that could topple onto them.

Take hanging baskets down and set them somewhere secure. A swinging basket is not doing its plants, or its bracket, any favours.

Support the likely leaners

Check stakes, trellis and plant ties before the wind picks up. Tall plants may benefit from extra support, but leave a little movement rather than tying stems rigidly in place. Soft ties will help avoid damage.

Go carefully with covers

Horticultural fleece can help protect vulnerable plants from cold, but it needs securing properly. Avoid draping heavy tarpaulins over delicate growth: they can flatten plants, trap moisture and catch the wind.

Keep an eye on drainage

Check that container drainage holes are clear and pots are not standing in saucers full of water. Mulch helps protect the soil, but it won’t cure waterlogging. Keep it away from plant crowns and the bases of woody stems.

If the lawn is sodden, give it a rest. Walking on saturated ground can compact the soil and leave you with a muddy repair job.

Batten down the garden extras

Put away loose furniture, tools and ornaments, and move wheelie bins to a sheltered position. Check that shed doors and gates are securely closed.

After the storm, take stock

Once conditions are safe, check for toppled pots, loosened supports and damaged growth. Keep clear of hanging branches or unstable trees and get professional help where needed.

A slightly tousled border can usually wait. Your safety comes first.