Are Potted Plants Okay During a Storm

Many people who love gardening worry about their plants during bad weather, including storms. If you have potted plants around your house, you might be wondering if they are ok during a storm. The answer is that it depends on different factors.

Factors Affecting Potted Plants During a Storm

One of the factors that affect the well-being of potted plants during a storm is the type of plant it is. Some plants can handle storms better than others. For example, sturdy and short plants are less likely to break during high winds than taller and delicate plants. Trees, shrubs, and perennials growing in the ground have a deep root system that helps them withstand storms better as it provides a good foundation. However, potted plants do not have the same stability as plants growing in the ground. Additionally, the size and weight of the pot and the type of soil and drainage also dictate how well a potted plant holds up during a storm.

How to Protect Potted Plants During a Storm

If you want to ensure that your potted plants are safe during storms, there are several precautions you can take. Firstly, you can move your potted plants to a more sheltered spot, such as a covered balcony or a garage. That way, they are less exposed to high winds, heavy rainfall, lightning, and hail. Alternatively, you can cluster your potted plants together in a more protected spot, which can give them extra stability by letting them brace against one another. You can also use stakes or bamboo canes to prop up your potted plants that are tall or have delicate branches. Finally, you can cover your potted plants with a tarp or blanket to protect them from debris or hail.

What to Do After the Storm Passes

Once the storm has passed, it's important to check your potted plants for damage. Look for any broken stems, uprooted plants, splits in branches, or ripped leaves. If the soil has been displaced, add some fresh soil and tamp it down to ensure proper drainage. If a plant has been uprooted, anchor it back down by adding more soil and pressing it firmly in place. Trim off any damaged parts of the plant, as they can attract pests or disease. Water your plants generously, as heavy rainfall might have washed away some of the nutrients in the soil. If you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation, treat them as soon as possible.

The Bottom Line

Potted plants can be vulnerable during storms, but it doesn't mean that they cannot survive them. With some extra precautions and care, your potted plants can weather most storms unscathed. Remember to choose sturdy and short plants for wind-prone areas, move or cluster your plants in a sheltered spot, and check them for damage after the storm has passed. Regular care like watering, feeding, Pruning can also help plants to be more resistant to storm damage.