Plan and Be Ready – Protecting Your Plants From the Damage Caused by Hailstorms – Part Two

It is advised that we first start preparing any plants we are nurturing by adjusting soil, making sure that we are watering them adequately, and doing all things possible to prevent pests and disease. However, there is another threat that can wipe out your garden in just minutes. Depending on your region, hail season can last from April to September, but the month that often causes the most harm is June.

If you take proper precautions, you can prevent or at least minimize the damage to the plants in your garden. Here are some recommendations to set your plants up to survive hailstorms and care for damaged plants.

Preventative Measures Before Hail Season:

• Proper fertilization and regular care to your garden helps your plants grow healthy and strong. This is the best defense you can give your plants against any physical damage, including from hailstorms. Before the storms hit and early in the season it is important to fertilize properly to give the plants a good foundation. Along with routine watering and care, the plants in your garden will be much more likely to be able to withstand extreme storms.
• Set up any wooden posts or stakes ahead of time. Hailstorms often come in with little to no warning, so having these things already in place enables you to protect your garden quickly and thoroughly.
• Store your protective equipment somewhere that is easily accessible so when a surprise storm comes in you can minimize your gardens exposure to the hail.

How to Prepare when Hail is in the Forecast:

It is largely important to pay attention to your daily forecast in order to be able to protect your garden from the damage caused by hailstorms. The month of June is known to produce the most extreme and harmful hailstorms. If you notice hail is in your forecast, one of the first things you should do is relocate all of your potted plants including any hanging baskets under cover, or inside if possible. Next, you need to put the protective covers you have in place and be sure they are secure enough to endure any high winds.

How to Handle the Damage from Unexpected Storms:

Sometimes hail can appear out of nowhere during forecasted rainstorms and you won’t have a chance to prepare your plants for the harsh conditions. In some cases, you can mitigate any harm done to your plants depending on the amount of damage they have suffered. Remember it can be dangerous to enter the hailstorm once it has already begun, so use good judgement and do not put yourself at risk of harm in efforts to save your plants.