IF wind is a worry in your garden there are things you can and should do. Apart from blowing away blossoms, wind can dry our your garden plants and soil. Combined with heavy rain and damp soil wind can be very destructive blowing and toppling trees that aren't well anchored.
Strong winds also break branches and tear leaves increasing the effect of either cold or hot temperatures. Make time this weekend to check all your plants to make sure they are solid in the ground. Grab them around the trunk or a substantial branch and just give them a shake. If the trunk and root zone don't move around in the ground your plant should be okay.
If you notice any movement or rocking, install some substantial tree stakes with mesh webbing ties. The ties should be firm but allow some movement. If ties are put on too tight they can damage the trunk and also weaken the roots.
Each year around this time we are asked to look at plantings of trees that have a problem and have either blown over or are at risk of blowing over. Encourage trees to form deep roots. If you water a tree frequently and lightly, the roots grow close to the surface. If you water the tree less often but thoroughly soak it, the water penetrates deep into the soil, encouraging roots deeper in search of water.
Wind damages many trees that could have been protected by proper preparation. A young tree that has grown considerably during the summer may need to be thinned before strong winter and spring winds blow. By removing several branches you can create a more open canopy that the wind can blow through. While you're training trees, prune them to develop strong crotches that can withstand wind. Consult a qualified arborist for help with this.
Windbreaks can help slow the wind for a distance that is about six times the height of the windbreak. For best effect make sure they are permeable, to allow some air to pass through. The force of the wind is like a wave of water hitting a barrier. If its solid, the wave breaks over the top. If the barrier has openings, the force of the wave diffuses.
If you love your garden but never have enough time give us a call on 5330 1071 or email via our website www.tophedge.com.au