With all the rain we have been having, it’s important to remember a few things about working in wet soils. The number one thing is, well, just don’t do it
Rain!
When soils are wet, they are much more readily compacted. Soil particles get pressed together and the air gets forced out of the soil. Compaction can cause drainage problems, run-off, erosion, and stunt plant growth.
If you must walk on wet soil, try to stick to permanent paths or strap on some of those aerating sandals. And don’t push a heavy mower across it. Cutting the grass when it is wet is just an invitation to fungal problems anyway.
If you have bought a lot of pretty new plants that are anxious to get to their new homes, try to hold off. We do get moments between the rains, like today, that you will be able to plant. That is exactly what I have been doing all day today. That and weeding. One good thing about all the rain is that it makes weeding MUCH easier.
To help soils that are already compacted, keep adding mulch. We already have such a problem with soil compaction in North Texas that we certainly don’t need to add to the problem.
Oh, and one last word… turn off the sprinklers. Your yard really doesn’t need any more right now and there is more rain on it’s way this weekend!
