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:

• Root rot from poor drainage

• Fungal diseases on leaves and stems

• Nutrient leaching from the soil

• Weed growth that quickly gets out of hand

Being proactive now will save you time—and plants—later.

🪴 Check Drainage & Container Plants

• 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.

• Improve soil structure: For in-ground beds, topdress with compost or amend compacted areas to help water move more freely.

• Avoid walking on soaked beds: This compacts soil and worsens drainage.

🍃 Fungal Diseases? Stay Ahead of the Curve

• Trim lower leaves: Remove yellowing or soggy leaves to improve airflow.

• Use organic fungicides: Products like copper spray or neem oil can help protect vulnerable plants.

• 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

• Stake floppy plants: Tall annuals and new perennials may lean or fall in saturated soil. Gently stake them upright.

• 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

• Remove debris: Wet leaves and fallen flowers are breeding grounds for disease.

• Weed now: Moist soil makes weeds easier to pull. Stay ahead before they set seed.

🌤️ When the Sun Returns...

Once things dry out a bit:

• Reapply slow-release fertilizer if rains have washed nutrients away.

• Inspect for pests, which often follow stressed plants and soft new growth.

• 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.