Retaining moisture Adding plenty of organic matter to soil before planting will help to hold moisture around the roots of young plants. Water well after planting and finish with a mulch of compost or bark chips. Using a mulch keeps down weeds and retains valuable moisture in the soil. Spring is an ideal time to apply mulches but you can add them at any time as long as the soil is damp. Large containers can also be topped off with a mulch of bark or gravel.
Mulches are another worthwhile precaution.
In addition to retaining soil moisture, they help keep down weeds. Gravel can be used as a mulch to keep the soil moist. Although not suitable for edible crops, dishwater is ideal for large shrubs and established plants. Remember to let it cool down if hot. These are essential during prolonged dry spells with sizes available to suit most positions.