Currently there are a range of specialiased gell balls that help retain water around plants. These will help when the climate becomes dry and there is a water restriction in your area. Although they are commercially made to high standards, I am not in a position to make any suggestions or to even advice which are better or worse than each other. Just wanted to let you know there are such options available.

There are several non commercial solutions. These are listed here as an alternative for your consideration.

Mulch: Using natural materials that your garden creates or that can be purchased may assist. Such as straw, leaves, twigs and paper products (avoid any that may have a plastice coating). The mulch will also provide an excelent source of nutrients as it decomposes.

Stones: The use of stones around trees and tall plants can effectivly reflect heat from hitting the ground. As the stones are stacked around the base of the plant it helps to trap moiture which can fall back into the soil.

Drip Irrigation: This has been tried and proven to be a good source of water control and plant survival. The setting up of a set of water pipes to allow just a slow flow of water dripping over time has been found to be useful.

Greywater: For the real Greeny at heart there is the recylced water from bathtubs, showers and even dishwashing. Making sure the soap used is free of saulfates should help minimise the damage that may occure. Placing a large tub in the shower will help catch water as you shower. All good recycling ideas.

If you have an idea that I missed, please feel free to send me an email and let me know.

Happy gardening,
Michael