The monsoon is good for gardens and hard on poorly prepared ones. Constant moisture, reduced sunlight and strong winds create problems that rarely show up in the dry months. A little preparation before the rains saves a lot of replacement later.
Waterlogging is the main enemy
Most monsoon losses come from roots sitting in water. Check that drains, channels and planter drainage holes are clear before the rains begin. In beds that hold water, raise the soil level or add organic matter and grit to improve drainage.
Cut back on watering, indoors and out
Indoor plants use much less water in humid, overcast weather. Water only when the soil has dried to the right level, rather than keeping to the summer schedule. Outdoor irrigation timers should be reduced or switched off during heavy rain.
Watch for fungal problems
Warm, damp conditions favour leaf spots, mildew and root rot. Give plants space for air to move, remove badly affected leaves, and avoid wetting foliage late in the day. Do not mist indoor plants during the monsoon.
Pruning and tree safety
Remove dead and weak branches before strong rain and wind, and check the staking of young trees. On campuses, tree failure is a safety issue as well as a plant-health one, so have trees near buildings, roads and car parks inspected.
Pests that arrive with the rain
Snails and slugs, aphids on soft new growth and fungus gnats in damp potting mix are all common. Early treatment and good drainage go a long way.
Lawns, nutrients and weeds
Heavy rain washes nutrients out of the soil and triggers a flush of weeds. Plan feeding after the heaviest rain, mow in dry spells at a slightly higher setting, and weed regularly while the soil is soft.
A simple pre-monsoon checklist
- Clear drains, channels and planter drainage holes
- Prune dead and weak branches; check tree staking
- Reduce irrigation settings and indoor watering
- Stock fungicide and organic pest control, and check equipment
- Plan feeding and weeding once the first heavy rains pass
If you manage a large campus, our grounds maintenance contracts include seasonal planning like this, so it does not depend on one person remembering.
