Outdoor & Protected Cultivation
Wind, Storms & Structural Support
Wind loading increases with plant height, canopy area, wet flowers, and storm intensity; support should distribute load without creating abrasion or constriction.
Key concepts
- Wet foliage and flowers add mass
- Long branches create leverage at attachment points
- Repeated rubbing can injure stems
- Support systems should allow growth and inspection
What to measure or observe
- Identify prevailing wind direction
- Inspect major branch unions before flowering mass increases
- Check ties for constriction and rubbing
- Reinspect after storms
Common mistakes
- Adding support only after branches begin failing
- Using thin ties that cut into stems
- Creating rigid supports that transfer stress to one weak point
Visuals this lesson still needs
- Wind-load diagram
- Branch leverage illustration
- Safe tie comparison
- Storm-preparation checklist