Apply Mulch to Regulate Soil Moisture

Spread a 2-4 inch layer of organic mulch — such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves — around the base of your plants, keeping it a few inches away from stems. Mulch acts as an insulating blanket that slows evaporation, keeping soil moisture steady between waterings and reducing how often you need to irrigate.

Why It Works

Bare soil loses moisture rapidly to sun and wind. Mulch blocks direct sunlight from hitting the soil surface, cutting evaporation significantly. It also moderates soil temperature swings, which helps roots absorb water more efficiently and prevents the rapid dry-out cycles that stress plants.

Tips

• Replenish mulch as it decomposes — straw breaks down faster than wood chips
• Avoid piling mulch against plant stems, which can trap moisture and cause rot
• In very wet conditions, use a thinner mulch layer to allow the soil surface to dry adequately