Plant cells respire and need oxygen to survive and grow. Plant cells must get oxygen from the air that is close to the cells. The concentration oxygen in the soil is not as high as oxygen around us. If soil become saturated with excess water. the excess water in the soil forces out soil air. When there is less air available, the oxygen is rapidly used and becomes inadequate for good root growth. Also, in very wet soils organic matter begins to decompose and this process also further depletes oxygen in the soil environment.
In addition to root problems other diseases get established on plants during wet periods. Many foliar diseases may form during this period. Close observation of your landscape and plants is important after an excessive wet period. If any dead spots, die-back, leaf spots or other disease problems become apparent, whatever the plant, prompt action is important to prevent more severe damage.
Here are some tips for dealing with too much rain in your garden:
- Cut off or cut back on automatic irrigation systems during periods of heavy rain.
- Keep gutters, downspouts, ditches, drainage grates and culverts clear of debris so water can move.
- Channel flooded waters away from garden beds and plants in the landscape by digging temporary small trenches so standing water will run away from the roots of plants that are not tolerant of “wet feet.”
- Make sure all drainage holes in containers are clear and water can move through the pots.
- Empty pot saucers regularly or remove during times of excessive rain to prevent containerized plant roots “standing in water.”
- Consider installing a rain barrel to catch and recycle this natural resource. This was once a common practice and there are many home “rain barrel” kits and instructions on the internet.
- Consider installing a rain garden in those areas of the yard that tend to hold water during heavy rainfall.
Additional Information
Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist at Rutgers University
Rain Gardens - Rutgers University
Stormwater Management in Your Backyard
Rain Barrels - Rutgers University
Phytophthora Root and Crown Rot - UC Davis IPM Online
