Optimum plant density is 5 to 6 plants per foot of row or per square foot. A good rule of thumb might be to cut out half of the plants in a good vigorous row. Work in the straw between the rows. A rototiller is ideal for this operation. The addition of soil to the row will help to obtain a slightly raised bed.
Water is needed for ideal plant growth.
Never let the plants go into a water stress situation. Continue through September. Allow early runner plants to fill in where needed in the row. If the row was narrowed below the width desired, place runners to fill the desired area. Remove all excess runners as they form.