Storm Boelo Damages Gardens Across Britain, Experts Offer Recovery Tips

Severe weather, including winds up to 85 mph and incessant rainfall from Storm Boelo, has caused significant damage to gardens across Britain. Experts are now offering guidance on how to recover and protect outdoor spaces from ongoing storm season conditions.

Protecting Outdoor Structures

Strong winds and prolonged dampness can severely impact garden fences, sheds, and other outdoor structures, leading to costly repairs. Chris Moorehouse, Category Director at Wickes, advises homeowners to inspect fences for loose panels, weakened posts, and signs of rot. Securing any compromised sections can help structures withstand strong gusts.

Moorehouse suggests using products like Wickes Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Cable Ties (£6) to reinforce timber structures. These ties offer additional support for fence panels, gates, and posts, featuring a self-locking mechanism for easy fitting.

Managing Water Damage

Heavy rainfall poses a risk of water damage, particularly when gutters become clogged with debris. Blocked gutters can cause rainwater to overflow onto exterior walls and pool around property foundations. Keeping gutters clear is a simple but effective preventative measure.

The Wickes FloPlast FloGuard Leaf Protection System (£10.50) is recommended to prevent leaves, moss, and other debris from clogging gutters, thereby reducing the likelihood of overflow during heavy rain.

Michael Dumanski, Principal Landscape Architect at North Hill Gardens, notes that heavy rainfall after dry spells can lead to waterlogged soil, depriving plant roots of essential oxygen. This can also damage soil structure, causing compaction, erosion, and nutrient leaching.

Dumanski stresses the importance of checking garden drainage, ensuring gutters, drains, and water outlets are clear of debris to allow water to flow freely. Downpipes should also be inspected for blockages, leaks, or loose fittings. Examining roof and gutter joints for cracks or deteriorating seals is also recommended. Wickes Roof and Gutter Sealant (£3.30) can help maintain watertight seals.

Caring for Plants and Soil

Mulching is an essential step for garden recovery after a storm. Applying a layer of organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or compost, helps protect soil structure, improve its condition, and regulate moisture. However, effective drainage remains crucial.

Dumanski advises particular care for plants with delicate foliage, such as roses, peonies, and herbaceous perennials, which are susceptible to damage from heavy rain and wind. Potted plants with delicate foliage should be moved to a sheltered location to protect them from the elements.

Aerating the soil can improve drainage and reduce compaction, especially in areas where water has pooled. Lawns may also benefit from feeding to replenish nutrients potentially washed away by heavy rainfall.