Re: Wind
Glen, here in Perth, Western Australia we have a rather windy climate. The sea
breeze, known as the "Fremantle Doctor" for its reviving effect (Fremantle is
the port of Perth) can usually be relied upon but my impression is that recently
it has been affected by the general climatic changes. We also have very strong
hot winds, which can last for up to five or six weeks in November - just in
time to fry all the tender spring growth - and again in February approximately .
Again, the last couple of years have been atypical.
We occasionally get the edges of one of the cyclones to which the north-west is
prone - these storms can be quite severe and cause a lot of damage - and in
winter, strong southerly gales.
Trees in an exposed position can develop quite a lean! The biggest effect
gardening-wise would be the hot easterlies off the desert.
Beverly
Glenn Breayley wrote:
> Hi All
> Here in Capetown we're rejoicing in our first real rains of the winter after
> one of the hottest, driest summers on record. Its really forcing people to
> focus more on dryland gardens, which is all for the best.
>
> I'm interested in knowing however, how wind effects the other main Med.
> climate areas in the world.
> There is a big difference in having a hot, dry summer with light winds & one
> where continuous strong winds are an additional factor. Here, in the
> Southwestern Cape, we get an equinoxal wind from the Southeast which
> normally starts in mid to late October & usually blows with varying
> intensities & periods through into February. ( This year it has run on well
> into Autumn, which is very unusual, as it is normally our most settled &
> lovely weather ).
> This wind, to my mind, is the main limiting factor to gardening rather than
> straight out hot dryness. I've known it blow a howling gale for 10 days to a
> fortnight on end & suck every last drop of moisture out of everything &
> whither up soft spring growth in one day.
> The various winds around the Mediterranean basin - the mistral etc - are
> well known, but I'm curious as to the situation in the other areas such as
> California, Chile & Australia. Is this an issue there ?
>
> Regards
>
> Glenn Breayley. Ragnarok & Valhalla Research.
> POBox 26158, Hout Bay, 7872, Capetown, South Africa
> Ph/Fax SA 021 7904253 E-mail valhalla@iafrica.com
> Wholesale nurseryman & Tillandsia specialist wholesale & retail grower.
--
Julius and Beverly Elischer
Perth, Western Australia
Ph. +61 8 9386 5244
