Garden Smarts: Caring for Outdoor Plants During Rainy Weather
Dallas gardeners have seen their fair share of wet spring days this year. While rain is a blessing for our gardens, too much moisture can cause problems—especially in our clay-heavy North Texas soils. Here's how to care for your outdoor plants during extended rainy periods to keep your garden healthy and thriving.
🌿 Know the Risks of Too Much Rain
Prolonged wet weather can create challenges such as:
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Root rot from poor drainage
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Fungal diseases on leaves and stems
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Nutrient leaching from the soil
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Weed growth that quickly gets out of hand
Being proactive now will save you time—and plants—later.
🪴 Check Drainage & Container Plants
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Elevate pots: If you’re growing in containers, ensure pots have unobstructed drainage holes. Place them on pot feet or bricks to allow water to escape.
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Improve soil structure: For in-ground beds, topdress with compost or amend compacted areas to help water move more freely.
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Avoid walking on soaked beds: This compacts soil and worsens drainage.
🍃 Fungal Diseases? Stay Ahead of the Curve
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Trim lower leaves: Remove yellowing or soggy leaves to improve airflow.
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Use organic fungicides: Products like copper spray or neem oil can help protect vulnerable plants.
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Don’t fertilize right after a storm: Wait until soil has dried slightly to avoid runoff and root stress.
🌱 Support Young or Top-Heavy Plants
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Stake floppy plants: Tall annuals and new perennials may lean or fall in saturated soil. Gently stake them upright.
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Mulch smartly: Maintain a 2–3" layer of mulch, but pull it slightly away from stems to prevent rot.
💧 Watering After the Rain?
It might seem unnecessary, but after a few dry days, check soil moisture a few inches down—especially in containers or newly planted beds. Clay soil holds water unevenly, and the top may dry while roots still sit soggy.
🧹 Clean-Up is Key
🌤️ When the Sun Returns...
Once things dry out a bit:
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Reapply slow-release fertilizer if rains have washed nutrients away.
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Inspect for pests, which often follow stressed plants and soft new growth.
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Deadhead blooms to keep flowering plants in production.
Visit North Haven Gardens
Need help diagnosing soggy soil problems or choosing disease-resistant plants? Our Garden Advisors are here to help with smart, regionally specific solutions—rain or shine.
Let’s keep your garden looking its best—no matter the weather.