Hey everyone! I used to live in a pretty wet 9b zone in the mountains, and growing plants was a breeze. But now I'm in a town close to the desert, and my plants are really struggling with the dry heat in summer, even with daily deep waterings. I'm looking for all your best tips for retaining moisture! Can I mix coco coir with my potting soil? Would setting up a drip irrigation system help? I really appreciate any advice!
6 Answers
Drip irrigation works wonders! I set a friend's garden with a timer so it drips water twice a day, and as fall came, I backed it off to morning only sessions. They also used hand watering for spots that needed extra attention. I do a lot with hydroponics too, which really helps avoid issues with poor soil.
If you're using grow bags, I recommend putting them in kiddie pools or storage totes. Just keep a little water at the bottom, and your bags won't dry out as fast. Instead of watering twice a day, you might only need to do it every couple of days. It’s a great water-wise method that worked well for me in the high desert!
Mixing in more coconut coir or even peat moss is a great idea for retaining moisture. And remember to mulch the top of your containers or raised beds to keep that moisture locked in.
Absolutely, adding coco coir will definitely help with moisture retention! Don’t forget about mulching as well; that’s a game changer. Also, try watering early in the morning or late evening to cut down on evaporation. What type of pots do you have your plants in?
I’ve grown in dry climates too! In Portugal, I usually split my season, avoiding summer's intense heat. I even covered my beds with netting to extend the spring. Check out plants like Cyclanthera pedata—super drought resistant. You might also love Cucuzzi squash; they’re beautiful and thrive in heat!
Drip irrigation is a solid choice, and consider using shade netting. Reducing direct sunlight on the leaves can help your plants retain moisture better.