If you want to print this publication, we recommend downloading the PDF version. Even in times of a water shortage, you can grow a vegetable garden if you use special water-efficient practices. Flat is best For efficient water conservation, prepare a soil surface for maximum water penetration. This means planting in a flat surface instead of any combination of raised mounds, beds, or ditches. A raised area, once it has dried, is very difficult to wet again.
Water runs away from the root zone of the plant and is wasted.
Using fertilizers Managing soil tilth to include additional organic matter will promote water penetration and retention. Organic material can include plant residue from garden plants, leaves, straw, manure, sawdust, bark, etc. Apply these additions annually. Adequate fertility levels will help produce crops that require limited water. Placing fertilizer in a band 2 inches below and 2 inches to the side of the seed will provide maximum efficiency.