1. The beach isn't always an enticing prospect thanks to this
cool wet summer. So why not use the time to get on with
a few useful projects that take full advantage of the rain?
And then you'll be ready to relax when the sun finally does
come out!
3. Cool wet weather is ideal for laying turf. The earth is cool
and moist, which is just how turf likes it - and damp soil is
also easier than sunbaked earth for you to loosen and dig
before you lay the turf.
4. New turf needs to be watered daily, ideally for two
weeks, but if you lay it in a rainy season you can sit back
and let nature do the watering without worrying about
council watering restrictions.
5. Four weeks after laying new turf, you should fertilise it
with a complete fertiliser. Watch the skies carefully and
fertilise just before rain - new lawns are easily burnt by
fertiliser, but a heavy rainshower will water it in well and
save you using the hose.
7. Heavy rain will pinpoint any drainage issues around your
home. After a heavy shower check under your house for
any pooling water that might indicate that you should
improve your drainage. Do the same thing outside - when
it rains heavily is the water following clear routes to
stormwater drains or is there any risk of pooling or even
water overflowing into your home? Make sure the water is
running away freely and where you want it to go- unblock
any drains or gutters that might have become blocked.
9. You can wait for a dry day to do this one - but it's a good
idea to make sure that your gutters are clear of old leaves
and other debris. You don't want this to wash into your
stormwater pipes, because it could end up blocking them.
11. Watering vegetables and annuals is a tedious job - but this
year it's hardly necessary. The generous rainfall takes care
of it for you. The soil is also nice and damp, ideal
conditions for young shoots to thrive in.
12. Rainy conditions are also ideal for potted plants - just be
sure to remove any saucers or trays from under the pots.
You want the water to be able to drain away freely.
14. Unfortunately weeds like the damp wet conditions as
much as other plants, so you will still have to keep on top
of them. Make life easier for yourself by laying down a
thick layer of mulch to discourage them. Mulch will also
help to lock the moisture into your soil when the sun
finally does come out.
16. It's raining now, but there is no guarantee that it will
continue - this is Australia, after all. So why not take
advantage of the big wet by installing a rainwater tank?
It's gratifying to see your investment fill up fast and you'll
be ready for when the sun comes out again.
18. Yes, seriously. Rainwater is a 'soft' water and doesn't
contain as many minerals as the water that comes from
your tap. Collect rainwater in buckets or bowls and use it
to rinse your hair for extra softness and bounce!
