Protecting your garden from wind
Gardens in windy locations often face strong winds that can numb plant life. The effects of cold conditions have long been known to stall the growth of flowers and significantly reduce the success of growing vegetables. Aside from that, strong winds really limit the possible plants you can feature in the garden.
If you are keen on growing not only rugged plants but some of the more delicate species, you will have to take measures to protect your garden from winds, before they kill off any plant that is there. There are many effective countermeasures you can take, and all of them make quite the difference in the long run. Here is what you should consider:
- Don’t rely on high walls/fences – the first tip has more to do with what is usually a highly ineffective solution. Surrounding your garden with high walls and fences isn’t a smart idea at all. The main issue comes from the fact that wind blowing over such structures, in fact, creates strong eddies that are even worse. Besides, if the wind is strong enough, the structure may be blown down, causing damage to your garden and other structures.
- Non-solid fencing – non-solid fencing is a more reliable windbreak, for the fact that it allows some wind to get through, but not enough to disturb plants. A fence that contains about 50% gaps is ideal. You can get hazel hurdles, woven willow or palings. Hurdle fences are good for temporary fences that can protect fresh hedges for quick establishment.
- Shelterbelt – in essence, a shelter belt takes the form of a row of tall trees/shrubs that act as a windbreak. A willow fedge (a cross between a hedge and a fence) is ideal for an exposed, wet location. You can create one by pushing a row of long willow stems in the ground at a certain angle. Afterwards, weave them together with another row angled in the other direction. The result should be a diamond shape. They will take root and create side shoots that present a barrier against the wind, which is not only effective but also good looking and easy to maintain.
- Hedges – based on the area, there are certain plants that thrive well. For example, hawthorn is perfect for most country districts, while seaside gardens in the southern edges can do well with escallonia. A mixed hedge with sweet briar, hawthorn, blackthorn, holly and field maple. They create a fairly good hedge that acts as a windbreak.
- Garden dividers – if you need some extra protection for your kitchen garden or starting area, then an internal division of the place makes sense. Dividers contribute a great deal to the overall look and design of the garden when used properly. You can pick among several options: a fruit tree or a row of hornbeam/pleached lime that looks elegant. These create a breeze-deflection barrier without adding too much shade. Decorative screens are also an option. You can make them from square trellis panels fixed into timber posts; they can also serve as roses support.
These are some practical ideas for your garden if it suffers greatly from windy conditions. Implement these features and within a year, your garden may turn into an oasis of tranquillity.