The past few weeks in Brunei Darussalam might as well have been an unplanned adventure at a water park. Back-to-back downpours have heightened the risk of flash floods, turned roads into rivers, and put our umbrellas through rigorous stress tests.
With December marking the holiday season, many of us may finally have the chance to roll up our sleeves and get serious about gardening. Yet, the relentless rain might have even the most dedicated green thumbs rethinking their plans.
Juggling unpredictable rain schedules and warding off surprise pest invasions can quickly turn your green sanctuary into a soggy battlefield. But don’t worry – my garden has weathered its fair share of monsoons. Here are some tips to help your plants not just survive but thrive during this flood-prone season.
Let’s start with watering. It’s pouring nearly every day, so your plants are getting plenty to drink – whether they want it or not.
Overwatering during this time can lead to root rot, so keep a close eye on your soil. For potted plants, make sure excess water can drain easily. If you’re growing anything particularly sensitive, like succulents, move them to a sheltered spot until the skies stop crying and if your garden is turning into a swamp, it’s time to address drainage issues.
Then there’s the matter of pests. Monsoon season is pest central, and your garden’s all-you-can-eat buffet has officially opened. Slugs, snails, and mosquitoes are especially problematic right now. Combat these invaders by sprinkling crushed eggshells or coffee grounds around your plants to deter slugs and snails.
For mosquitoes, empty any stagnant water collecting in pots or trays. Trust me, no one wants their backyard to double as a mosquito breeding ground.
Heavy rains and strong winds can easily topple taller plants, so give them some much-needed support. Stakes, trellises, or cages work well, and if you have fruiting plants like bananas or papayas, harvesting ripe fruits early can prevent branches from breaking under the weight.
Mulching is another lifesaver during the rainy season. A good layer of mulch – think coconut husks, dried leaves, or even rice straw – can help prevent soil erosion, regulate soil temperature and keep weeds at bay.
Plus, it’s an excellent way to repurpose garden waste.
Monsoon rains can weigh down branches and encourage fungal growth, so prune back dead or overgrown foliage to allow better air circulation and reduce the risk of diseases.
However, don’t go overboard – excessive pruning can stress your plants.
If you’re planting new crops, choose varieties that can handle wet conditions. Taro, water spinach (kangkong), and ginger are great options that thrive in Brunei’s tropical climate.
For beginner gardeners, these are not only hardy but also forgiving. If you’re just starting out, consider adding monsoon-friendly plants like lemongrass, pandan, or turmeric to
your list.
They thrive in the wet and humid conditions, are useful in the kitchen and require minimal fuss. They practically laugh in the face of soggy soil.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast. While it feels like rain is a daily occurrence, there might be the occasional dry day where you can get some serious gardening done. Use these breaks to apply fertilisers or transplant seedlings without fear of them being washed away.
Fungal diseases love the wet weather just as much as pests do. If you spot signs of mildew or blight, act fast. Neem oil or a homemade mix of baking soda and water can help combat these issues naturally.
Gardening during the monsoon season can feel like a losing battle, but remember, this too shall pass.
So, while the rain keeps falling and the pests keep plotting, arm yourself with these ideas and keep your green thumb strong. – Features Desk
