Now is the time to stake your plants!
Last Sunday, the heavy rain came and it became so windy that many of my trees and shrubs were swaying in all directions. Thunder and blackout were next in line. By the time morning broke and I looked outside half the shrub trees were leaning over.
First, we set about rescuing the Papaya tree, which was leaning against the side wall laden with about 12 fruits. We managed to stake it for the sake of the fruits, but after they have ripened and harvested, we will have to take it down. As I write it is holding up for now.
Then next in line was my red Mussaenda shrub and then several Bougainvillea plants which we had to stake. Of course, the leaves are turning yellow and would soon start to fall.
With this type of rainfall and heavy wind try and stake most of your shrub plants if not, you will lose them. You may have to prune some of your shrubs and trees to take some of the weight off them.
Check and make sure that the roots are not sitting in water. Try to dig trenches around them so that the water can run off quickly.
Let us empathise with all the people who are suffering and have been affected by the hurricanes and earthquake, those who have lost their loved ones and have been displaced.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
