Gardeners across the UK are increasingly having to deal with harsh weather conditions. From torrential rain and snow in winter to prolonged droughts and scorching temperatures in summer, it can be challenging to keep your garden thriving. If you love your garden, but often find it struggling to cope with the changeable conditions, then there are a few steps you can take to “future-proof” your space.
Paul Parker, gardening expert at bulbs and perennials specialists J. Parker has shared his favourite methods to help protect your garden against climate change and keep it thriving all through the year. From choosing the right plants to being aware of soil conditions, these methods will protect your garden for years to come.
Choose the right plants
Paul’s first tip is to be wise when you think about what you want to have in your garden. He said: “When designing a garden that can handle changing conditions, start by choosing the right plants. My top tip is to look for cultivars, rather than focusing on the species, as some will be more resilient than others.”
Anything drought-tolerant is a good idea as they will have a better chance in the long, hot summers, but also, once they are established, they grow deep root systems.
These deep root systems will also keep them alive during the cold winter months.
Ornamental grasses are a great choice for any garden. Paul said: “These hardy evergreens are ideal for coping with both wind and temperature fluctuations.
“Also, ornamental grass basically takes care of itself, requiring just cutting back spent foliage at the end of the season.”
Keep your soil healthy
Your first line of defence against unpredictable weather is the health of your soil. Paul recommends mulching to protect plants, as this keeps soil moist, protects from extreme temperatures and can suppress weeds.
He said: “Natural composts can help your soil get the nutrients it needs to support your plants through both wet and dry weather. Homemade compost or manure will improve the overall structure of your soil.
“Identify which type of soil you have in your garden, if the texture is fine and sandy, compost will help it to retain moisture in dry periods.
“If your soil is dense and heavy, compost will aid drainage in wet weather and help avoid your plants developing root rot.”
Be sustainable with water
As summer hosepipe bans become more common, it’s a good idea to get ahead of them by collecting rainwater in the wetter seasons.
By installing a water butt and connecting it to the gutters, you can save water for the long dry season. In the wet season, when storms sweep through, you can also work with the water by planting things that thrive in wetter conditions.
Paul said: “Think about plants that are happy in boggy conditions, such as marsh marigold or yellow iris, that are typically found in wetlands.
“Alternatively, using raised beds can keep your plants off the ground and away from any flooding.”
