Households across the UK are being urged to take immediate action to safeguard their gardens, with an unexpected household item – the old bedsheet – being hailed as a key defence against impending severe weather.
The Met Office has issued a series of yellow and amber warnings for snow and ice, putting gardeners on high alert. Lee Heitzman, the UK and Ireland market manager at Trex, has provided essential advice to help your outdoor space weather the storm.
Shielding Plants and Preventing Damage
Lee Heitzman's primary advice is to move vulnerable potted plants to a sheltered spot. For frost-sensitive plants left in the ground, he recommends covering them with horticultural fleece or, ingeniously, an old bedsheet, which can provide vital insulation.
He also suggests adding a layer of mulch around plant bases to protect roots from freezing temperatures. Should heavy snowfall occur, a simple act like gently shaking the snow from branches can prevent breakages and save your plants.
Securing Your Garden's Infrastructure
Preparation is key to preventing damage to your garden's fixtures. Ahead of the predicted storms, clear gutters and drains to avoid waterlogging. Raising pots off the ground using bricks or special feet can also help drainage and reduce the risk of water pooling and freezing.
When high winds are forecast, it is crucial to tie down loose items and store away lightweight objects like cushions and plant pots. Check for any loose fence panels, posts, or trellises and carry out repairs now to prevent them from becoming hazardous projectiles. For greenhouse owners, protective netting or bubble wrap is recommended.
Caring for Decking and Wildlife
Once the snow arrives, clear your decking as soon as possible to prevent slips and falls. Lee advises using calcium chloride or rock salt to melt snow and ice, taking care to scrape gently to avoid damaging the deck surface.
Finally, don't forget the garden's wildlife. Keep bird baths free of ice and ensure feeders are stocked with seeds to provide a reliable food and water source for birds during the turbulent weather. If you have spare bird boxes, hang them up now to offer much-needed shelter for hedgehogs, badgers, and birds seeking refuge from the cold.
