Holy moly has it been wet in Brisbane! As gardeners we love rain generally. It makes our lives easier when we don’t have to water so much. Too much rain how ever – not so much.
The current excessive rainfall in Brisbane can pose a plethora of challenges for our gardens. While water is essential for plant growth, an excess of it can lead to various issues.
Prolonged and heavy downpours can saturate the soil, resulting in poor drainage and waterlogging. This can suffocate plant roots, limiting their access to oxygen and nutrients, ultimately leading to root rot and plant wilting.
The constant dampness promotes the growth of fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and root rot, which can quickly spread and damage plants.
Excessive rain can also erode the top layer of soil, causing nutrient depletion and exposing delicate roots.
Heavy rainfall can also dislodge young plants, wash away seeds, and damage fragile foliage, hindering the overall growth and vitality of the garden.
Ensuring proper drainage through raised beds and swales (see permaculture gardening practices), the incorporation of organic matter into soil and the strategic placement of plants can help mitigate these issues and maintain a healthy Brisbane garden even during extended periods of wet weather.
Whispers from the Garden 
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