They do not withstand even short periods of flooding as their chloropyl-rich cousins do. The most important preparation is complete mulching. Soil does not have to be visible to be useful. I cover all of it with grass clippings in the summer and with dried leaves from autumn to spring. Insect invasions Insects thrive on monocultures.
Companion planting prevents pest invasions.
While teaching in southern Alberta, I observed an army of grasshoppers laying down an entire grain field in one sweep. I also see the grasshoppers in my 20 acre hayfield die of malnutrition. They are almost transparent. They are programmed to feed on one single crop at a time. Not being able to find it, they get confused and starve.