There are several practical ways to keep raised garden beds productive while using water more efficiently.

• Start by watering at the right time of day. Early morning or late afternoon is best, as less water is lost through evaporation and plants can absorb moisture more effectively.
• Mulching is one of the most effective ways to conserve water. Apply a layer of crushed bark or compost around plants to help keep the soil cooler and significantly reduce moisture loss during hot, sunny days.
• When planting a new crop, mix fresh Daltons Garden Time Compost into the soil. Organic matter improves the soil structure and increases its water-holding capacity, meaning moisture stays available to plant roots for longer.
• You can also add Daltons Water Storage Crystals when planting. These crystals absorb and store water and nutrients, then slowly release them back into the soil, helping reduce water wastage and protecting plants from drying out during hot conditions.

It’s also worth monitoring your irrigation habits. Pay attention to how often you water, how long you run irrigation for, and how much water is actually needed. With a little fine-tuning, you can often maintain healthy garden beds while keeping water use - and costs - under control.