During the rainy season in Barbados and tropical climates, your garden will experience rapid growth, increased humidity, and a higher risk of pests and fungal diseases. Here’s a practical guide on what to do in your garden during the rainy season:

✅ 1. Prepare the Soil and Drainage
• Improve drainage: Add organic matter (like compost or mulch) to improve soil structure and help water drain properly.
• Avoid waterlogging: Make sure garden beds are slightly raised and check that no low areas hold standing water.
• Use mulch: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around plants to prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and retain nutrients.

2. Choose and Support the Right Plants
• Grow rain-loving crops: Consider tropical vegetables and herbs that thrive in wet conditions, such as:
o Callaloo (amaranth), okra, dasheen (taro), sweet potatoes, pumpkin, hot peppers, and ginger.
• Staking and trellising: Support tall or climbing plants to prevent them from toppling in wind or heavy rain.
• Protect sensitive plants: Use temporary plastic covers or place pots in sheltered areas if needed.

3. Monitor for Pests & Fungal Diseases
• Watch for snails, slugs, and aphids, which love the damp conditions.
• Look out for fungal infections like powdery mildew or root rot – improve airflow around plants and avoid overwatering.
• Use natural remedies: Neem oil, garlic sprays, and diatomaceous earth can help deter pests without harming your garden ecosystem.

✂️ 4. Prune and Maintain Regularly
• Remove dead or soggy leaves to prevent rot and disease.
• Prune overcrowded plants to improve air circulation and light penetration.
• Cut back aggressive growers that spread too fast in wet weather.

5. Harvest Often
• Pick fruits and vegetables regularly to prevent rot and attract fewer pests.
• Check for moldy or damaged produce and discard immediately to avoid spreading disease.

️ 6. Take Advantage of Rainwater
• Collect rainwater in barrels or buckets for use during dry spells.
• Check for mosquito breeding in standing water — use lids or mesh screens to cover containers.

7. Replant & Rotate
• Use this time to refresh your garden beds, rotate crops to maintain soil health, and start new seedlings.
• Some great crops to sow during or just after the rainy season include lettuce, pak choi, tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs like basil or chives.