November showers bring rapid growth

At the beginning of the 2023 Rainy Season, we experienced more hot and humid periods than wet ones which brought temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius on some days such as August 7.

As we entered the month of October, the wet season lived up to its name when the heavy thunderstorms came. Thus far, we have been very fortunate to have not experienced any significant, devastating flooding.

We must also remember that the rainy season yields much benefit which includes the rapid growth of vegetation as well as improving the quality of air.

While the rainy season provides an abundance of water for your garden, it unfortunately also gives rise to certain pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.

For our gardens, both home gardens and large crop fields, let’s not forget to wear protective footwear so that you would not slip and injure yourself. Also, be on the lookout for animals such as snakes and frogs (for your pets’ safety). Ensure that you cover all drums and containers since these can breed mosquitoes which carry diseases such as Malaria and Dengue.

As we prepare for December, ensure that there is proper drainage for your plants by checking to see if the holes in your plant pots are clogged. Farmers, raise your garden beds as high as possible, especially if you are planting leafy vegetables such as lettuce and herbs.

Regularly check the moisture of the soil in your plant pots before you give them additional water. If the soil is moist, do not water. For commercial planting, it is highly recommended to plant flood-tolerant crops such as spinach, peas, beans, okra.

After a heavy downpour of rain, weeds will grow rapidly. Try to control them by manually removing them, especially the roots from the soil. For commercial fields, wait until the sun comes out to spray your herbicides, if not use a spreader sticker. A spreader sticker helps chemical controls become more effective by increasing the distribution and adhesion.

It is more effective to use natural fertigation during the rainy season for your home gardens. Fertilisers may wash out quickly hence slow-releasing natural types are encouraged such as manure and compost.

For commercial fields, granular slow-release fertilisers can be utilised.

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