Article 14 · Water & Seasons
Preparing Your Farm or Garden for the Monsoon
A pre-monsoon checklist for drainage, soil cover, structures, stored materials and the first close observations after rain.
After a dry spell, rain can feel like the answer to everything. It also tests the decisions made while the ground was dry.
At Bholi, our experience with difficult weather has reinforced the need to prepare, observe and adjust rather than assume every season will behave like the last.
Before the first heavy rain
- Check known drainage routes: Remove rubbish from maintained drains where safe. Do not deepen natural channels or remove stabilising vegetation without assessment.
- Protect exposed soil: Use suitable cover and check that loose mulch will not wash into outlets.
- Inspect access: Keep safe routes to growing areas, animal shelters, tools and water controls.
- Check vulnerable plants: Repair supports and use ties that do not cut into stems. Stake only where needed.
- Protect stored materials: Keep seeds, tools and inputs dry and clear of likely floodwater.
- Check electrical safety: Have vulnerable pumps and connections assessed by a qualified person.
After rain, return to the same places
Mark where water collected, where soil moved and which routes became difficult to use. Photograph the area again once water has receded.
Do not enter flowing floodwater, approach unstable banks or handle wet electrical equipment.
Diary note: Rain date, affected locations, time taken for water to clear and repairs needed.
Preparation is not just clearing water away. It is understanding where water belongs and where it creates a risk.