From Devastation to Development
Recently, new friends often talk about the ‘recent’ hurricane. When I finally asked when the storm came, they responded, “We just passed our second anniversary.” I was surprised twice. Once because of how long ago in my mind it happened, and that they knew the date. But this should not be surprising. Most everyone has experienced some type of land devastation, whether it is a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, tsunami, ice, or other weather-related activity. The devastation it leaves behind varies and it is very difficult to deal with. But we must. Deal with it.
How can we best recover a food garden after a flood?
Because flood waters potentially bring with them waste from sewage, chemical runoff, and trash debris that carries bacterial germs, little can be done to save food crops. Certain crops, if possible can be sanitized, washed, and canned. There is a helpful article below and what crops to discard and why. Also, how to save certain crops.
https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Garden-After-a-Flood_FINAL.pdf.pdf?fwd=no
If your garden is plants, shrubs, and or rare florals, there is a different clean-up process.
It is not as involved because it does not provide food. The biggest temptation to avoid during a flood of this type of garden is to wait until it dries out. Although it is hard to leave the mess in the aftermath, trying to clean up while the ground is soggy can do more damage. Read this article for a basic approach to a plant garden cleanup.
https://www.trianglegardener.com/restoring-your-garden-after-a-flood/
Finally, how do you bring restoration to a neglected garden?
The following article offers 12 steps. It reminds me of how you eat an elephant. One bite at a time. Although I don’t think we eat elephants. The last point gives advice that is a no-brainer – don’t let your garden get out of control! Right! But if it does, restoring is a process. It takes time and yields a great reward.
https://morningchores.com/restore-neglected-garden/
As I write this blog I am reminded that this garden cleanup can be much like our lives after we experience a disaster. We tend to either leave it all for a long time or rush in and try to fix the problem. Because disasters are a part of life research shows viable ways to get through them. Read this article and see if any of these steps helped you. Share them with others.
https://www1.cbn.com/family/getting-back-to-normal-after-a-disaster
Remember, natural disasters will happen. We can prepare for some while others come quickly. Whichever, reach out for help. Do not go through it alone.
Until next time,
Remember the heart of the matter is the matter of the heart.
Dr. Michele Morgan
January 13, 2023
