From species selection to water and soil management, learn how to adapt your garden to climate change and reduce damage from droughts and storms
Submitted at Oct 27, 2026, 12:00 PM
Flávia D’Urso Paisagismo – Jardim Entretempos. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2026. (Mariana Araújo/CASACOR)
Heat waves, prolonged droughts and intense rainfall are already part of the challenges faced by anyone who tends a garden. With climate change, landscaping must go beyond choosing beautiful species: it must also consider how the space reacts to the lack or excess of water, high temperatures and strong winds.
The good news is that small changes in management can increase the resistance of plants and reduce the consumption of resources. The secret lies in observing the conditions of each terrain and planning a garden capable of adapting to different scenarios.
Before buying seedlings, assess the sun exposure, soil type and rainfall patterns. Native plants of the region, when suited to the terrain's conditions, usually require fewer interventions once established and also benefit local wildlife.
Pedro Rabelais Paisagismo - Clareira. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2026. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)
In dry areas, prioritize species that tolerate periods without rain. In spots prone to waterlogging, look for plants capable of withstanding high humidity. Drought resistance does not mean flood resistance: each projects calls for a specific choice.
Leaving the soil exposed facilitates moisture loss during heat and erosion during storms. A layer of mulch, made with dry leaves, straw or plant husks, helps moderate the temperature and protect the roots.
Maria Fernandes Marques Paisagismo - Da Terra ao Solo. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Roberta Gewehr/CASACOR)
Spread approximately 5 to 8 centimeters of material, without resting it directly against stems and trunks. The cover should allow water to pass through and be renewed as it decomposes.
A resistant garden starts beneath the surface. Incorporating well-cured organic compost, when appropriate for the terrain, improves soil structure, favoring both moisture retention and water infiltration.
Estúdio Solo - O Avesso do Chão. Projeto da CASACOR Brasília 2026. (Edgard César/CASACOR)
It is also important to avoid compaction, especially after heavy rains. Reduce foot traffic in flower beds and maintain defined paths to preserve the air spaces that roots need.
Watering every day, without checking the need, can waste water and harm plants. The ideal is to observe soil moisture and perform deeper waterings when necessary, considering the species and its stage of development.
(Freepik/CASACOR)
Prefer early morning, when evaporation tends to be lower. Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the root zone. Newly planted seedlings require special attention, even when they belong to drought-tolerant species.
Reservoirs connected to gutters can store water for later use in irrigation. For this, use covered containers protected against mosquitoes, with periodic maintenance and care to avoid contamination.
Cheflera (árvore-guarda-chuva) (Freepik/CASACOR)
Rainwater harvesting is a way to reduce dependence on treated water during dry periods. Size the system according to the available space and the frequency of rainfall, always considering the safety of the installation.
Excess water can be just as harmful as drought. Opt for permeable paving, preserve areas with vegetated soil, and assess points where water tends to accumulate after storms.
Joia Piscinas Biológicas | Daiane Reis - Jardim de Oração. Projeto da CASACOR Bahia 2026. (Camila Santos/CASACOR)
On some sites, rain gardens help receive and infiltrate part of the surface runoff, provided they are properly planned. If frequent flooding occurs near the house, seek technical guidance to avoid directing water toward the foundations.
While vegetation grows, shade cloths can provide temporary protection during heat waves. Avoid drastic pruning and excessive fertilizing during periods of extreme heat: both can increase plant stress. Observe leaves, new growth, and moisture before taking action.
Alexandre Galhego Paisagismo - Clareira na Mata. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Carolina Mossin/CASACOR)
More than withstanding an isolated event, a garden prepared for climate change combines biodiversity, responsible water management, and ongoing soil care. This way, the green space becomes more resilient and pleasant throughout the year.
This text was developed with the help of CASACOR Publisher, an exclusive content agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. The generated content was subsequently edited by Yeska Coelho.
