Landscaping Tips for Extended Wet Weather
While all this rain has certainly helped keep lawns and landscapes green, too much of a good thing can create challenges for homeowners. Saturated soil, standing water, fungal diseases, and drainage issues can all develop when wet weather lingers for weeks at a time.
The good news is that a few simple maintenance steps can help protect your lawn, garden, trees, and landscape from potential damage. Use the tips below to keep your property healthy and looking its best until conditions dry out.
Lawn Care
Adjust your mowing practices to help your lawn stay healthy during rainy periods.
- Mow slightly higher than usual to encourage deeper root growth.
- Avoid mowing when the ground is saturated to prevent rutting and soil compaction.
- Reduce or stop irrigation until rainfall returns to normal levels.
- Monitor for fungal diseases such as brown patch and dollar spot, which thrive in warm, wet conditions.
Garden Care
Excessive rainfall can be just as stressful for plants as drought.
- Turn off irrigation systems and avoid watering when rain is expected.
- Check plants for wilting or leaf scorch after heavy rains, especially during hot weather.
- Stay out of muddy garden areas to avoid compacting the soil.
- Wait until the soil dries before digging or cultivating.
- Apply mulch between rows or use boards to walk on when conditions are wet.
To reduce soil compaction, add mulch or groundcovers and consider aerating compacted areas with a core aerator or similar tool.
Wet conditions also encourage slugs and other pests. Handpick slugs, use traps, or treat infestations with approved control methods before they damage plants.
Trees and Shrubs
Trees and shrubs can suffer when roots remain saturated for extended periods.
- Check for standing water around trunks and root zones.
- Pull mulch a few inches away from the trunk flare to prevent moisture-related problems.
- Inspect young trees for leaning after heavy rain and saturated soil conditions.
Flower Beds and Vegetable Gardens
High humidity and wet foliage can increase disease pressure.
- Thin crowded plants to improve air circulation.
- Stake tomatoes and other tall plants to keep foliage off wet soil.
- Apply mulch to reduce soil splash and disease spread.
- Watch for signs of leaf spots, mildew, and root rot.
Drainage Concerns
If rainy conditions persist, address drainage issues as soon as possible.
1. Identify areas where water remains standing for more than 24–48 hours after rainfall.
2. Clear leaves, debris, and sediment from swales, ditches, and drain inlets.
3. Incorporate compost into clay soils to improve water infiltration.
4. Consider installing a French drain or creating a rain garden in chronically wet areas.
Preventing Erosion
Heavy rains can quickly wash away exposed soil.
- Keep bare soil covered with mulch.
- Limit foot traffic on saturated slopes.
- Repair minor washouts before they develop into larger erosion problems.
Mosquito Control
Standing water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes within days during Georgia summers.
- Empty containers, plant saucers, wheelbarrows, birdbaths, and other water-holding items weekly.
- Clean gutters and ensure water drains properly away from your home and landscape.
Need Help?
If you have questions about lawn care, drainage, landscaping, or gardening during wet weather, contact Crabapple Today!
Call us today at 770-740-9739 or reach out to us at: https://crabapple.com/contact/
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