Households have been urged to prepare their gardens for Storm Goretti as severe weather brings snow, rain and wind across the UK
Mia O’Hare Showbiz Reporter
12:08, 08 Jan 2026Updated 14:04, 08 Jan 2026
Ensure you protect your garden before it’s too late(Image: Catherine McQueen via Getty Images)
Storm Goretti is set to bring snow, rain and wind to the UK within hours, prompting a call for gardeners to safeguard their outdoor spaces. The prospect of storm damage could be devastating for many who have invested months or even years into their gardens.
Fortunately, there are measures that households can take to minimise potential damage. With amber and yellow weather warnings due to come into effect across numerous regions this evening, there’s still time to prepare.
Gardeners can follow 10 simple steps to protect their furniture, plants and trees from the impending storm. Insurance firm Admiral has outlined these straightforward steps to help keep damage to a minimum, reports the Express.
Secure fragile pots
Any pots susceptible to being swept up and broken by strong winds should be secured. Consider bringing them indoors overnight or storing them in a shed or garage.
If this isn’t feasible, they suggest grouping all the pots together in one part of the garden. Water the pots to make them as heavy as possible, but ensure they’re kept away from windows or conservatories to prevent glass damage.
Prevent garden damage with the storm proofing tips(Image: Ray Orton via Getty Images)Check the shed
Make sure windows and doors are securely fastened. If your shed already has any damage, such as holes or patches, try to repair these before the storm arrives.
Tie up your trees
Newly planted trees require additional support during storms as their root systems are still establishing. Admiral advised: “You can stake them (use small structures to support them) or temporarily tie them. Make sure there’s a little give in the ties as you want the tree to still be able to flex slightly, rather than snapping completely.”
Tidy up
Store any loose items and garden furniture indoors. Strong winds could lift these objects, potentially damaging your garden or property. Keep them in a garage, shed or inside your home until the storm passes. If storage space is limited, secure garden furniture together using bungee cords or weigh them down with sandbags.
Remember the bins
Wheelie bins can easily become airborne in high winds and cause significant damage. Store them away if possible. Otherwise, fasten them with bungee cords and secure the lids to prevent contents from being scattered.
Prune
Remove any dead or damaged branches from your trees by sawing them off to prevent them falling and causing harm. Ensure all plants, shrubs and trees are properly pruned now storm season has arrived.
Stake shrubs
Smaller plants need to be anchored firmly to the ground. Garden canes or sticks can be used for this purpose.
Take down hanging baskets and bird feeders
Strong winds could easily lift these items, potentially damaging your home or garden. Store them overnight in a shed, garage or indoors.
Cover up delicate plants
To safeguard your plants, cover them with burlap or cloth and secure it to the ground. This should provide adequate protection against storm damage.
Inspect the drains
With heavy rainfall anticipated in many parts of the UK, there’s a risk of garden flooding and potential rot if water stagnates for too long. Ensure your drainage systems and gutters are clear. Puncturing holes in your lawn can also strengthen it and enhance its water absorption capacity.
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