We are in a severe drought and I am trying to figure out how I am going to prepare the garden for the high temps of summer. We normally have 35 to 45 inches of rain from November through March or April. In a dry year, we get about 25 inches. This year, so far, we have only gotten 1.25 inches. Doesn't look good.
Since I have to go out and glean/collect my own mulch and can't buy any up here, I am wondering what the best materials to use for mulch would be to maintain the moisture in the soil ... which has good drainage ... and how deep I dare mulch without smothering the plants because oxygen can't get through.
I also need to find a way to make inexpensive .... cheap .... plant collars to keep the mulch away from the crowns of the plants.
All help is very welcome.
Smiles,
Lyn
