Written by Benedict Vanheems
15 October 2020
In many regions, especially in areas prone to harsh weather, wind is a constant challenge for gardeners. In fact, we often film gardening videos in brief moments of calm, between gusts. As I sat down to write this article, I was reminded that October 15th marks the anniversary of the devastating Great Storm of 1987, which hit Britain with hurricane-force winds reaching 135 mph (217 km/h), uprooting trees, damaging buildings, and wreaking havoc across the country. While most storms aren’t as extreme, the reality is that unpredictable, severe weather is becoming more common worldwide due to climate change. With this in mind, here are a few strategies to help you prepare and protect your garden from wind damage.
1. Secure Your Garden Against Gales and Gusts
When the weather forecast shows tightly packed isobars, it’s time to act. Start by clearing any loose items that could become dangerous projectiles in the wind. Remove debris, old pots, lightweight garden furniture, and anything else that could be blown around. Don’t forget to secure trampolines by removing safety netting and mats, as they are especially vulnerable to flipping over in strong winds.
For garden features that will stay in place, ensure they are firmly anchored. Bug hotels, birdhouses, and greenhouses should be secured properly. A slight gap in your greenhouse can allow the wind to lift panes or warp the frame, so ensure it is sealed tightly. Garden fleece, netting, and covers should be weighed down or pegged securely to prevent them from flapping in the wind and tearing.
2. Prepare Plants for Strong Winds
Climbing plants, such as beans and tomatoes, should be tied to strong supports. Wind can easily damage these plants if they aren’t secured properly. In extreme wind conditions, consider temporarily untying climbers and laying them on the ground to protect them from snapping.
For tall herbaceous perennials, especially newly planted ones, consider cutting them back if they’ve finished flowering for the season. Newly rooted plants may struggle in high winds, so re-firming them into place may be necessary. Additionally, plants can be protected by surrounding them with chicken wire or strong netting, which will hold them in place and shield them from the wind.
3. Prune Overhanging Branches
Overhanging branches can pose a serious threat during storms, especially when they break off and crash onto vulnerable areas like greenhouses. I’ve had firsthand experience with this—a dead apple tree hung precariously over my greenhouse, and despite the challenge of removing it, I managed to do so without causing damage. If you have branches that pose a risk to structures in your garden, prune them back now to avoid any potential disasters when the winds pick up. Regular winter pruning will help prevent weak or poorly positioned branches from becoming hazards.
4. Plan Long-Term Wind Protection
For gardens that are consistently windy, it’s essential to have a long-term windproofing strategy. One effective solution is planting permeable windbreaks, such as hedges, which reduce wind speed while avoiding the turbulence that solid barriers create. Hedges can also provide shelter for wildlife and offer additional benefits to your garden.
Planting crops with proper spacing is another long-term strategy. Well-spaced plants will grow stronger, which helps them withstand harsh weather. Additionally, planting in blocks rather than single plants can reduce wind exposure. By carefully understanding your garden’s layout and microclimates, you can avoid placing vulnerable plants in particularly windy spots, such as areas where wind is funneled between buildings.
Wind may always be a challenge for gardeners, but with these simple steps, you can minimize its impact on your plants and structures. How do you prepare your garden for windy weather? Share your tips and let’s work together to keep our gardens safe during storm season.