Contrary to expectations, the recent rainfall has been on the gentle side (I was expecting a thunder storm). This is very good for soil structure: If the water can be absorbed as it falls, there is much less physical damage.
Problems arise when ponding occurs. That is, pools of unabsorbed water form on the surface. This whole layer gets stirred up into a sludge which then sets (and bakes, if done at mid-day) to a hard impervious pan (or cap).
This is a trap into which novice growers often fall with their bedding plants, especially in hot sunny weather. For some reason, they feel they are being kind to their plants by drowning them in water. No! This action is a real killer as far as the plants are concerned. Even if they survive, they will not prosper and will remain stunted; unless the surface pan is broken up so that the soil can breathe, once more.
Because we are always in a hurry, there is ever the temptation to apply water too forcefully, especially with hosepipes and sprinklers. We need to learn once more that patience is a virtue, when growing.
P.S.
It would be a good idea to go out and check your plants for panning. I cannot emphasise how valuable this advice is.
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